Greta Gerwig rumoured to be developing a ‘Barbie’ sequel

Fans of the billion-rand blockbuster Barbie may soon have a reason to celebrate.

Oscar-nominated filmmakers Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach are the creative minds behind the record-breaking film. These two are reportedly in the early stages of planning a sequel.

BARBIE SEQUEL IN THE WORKS?

Sources close to the pair claim they’ve landed on an exciting idea for the next chapter of Barbie’s story.

However, both Warner Bros. and the filmmakers have denied any active development, according to IMDB.

The original Barbie film became a cultural phenomenon in 2023.

It wasn’t just a commercial success but also a critical darling, receiving eight Oscar nominations. These included Best Picture.

South Africans flocked to cinemas, donning pink outfits and celebrating its empowering message.

GRETA GERWIG AND BARBIE

Gerwig directed the film and co-wrote the script with Baumbach. She has always insisted that a sequel would only happen if the right story came along, according to Screen Rant.

During an acceptance speech at Time’s Women of the Year event in March 2024, she explained her approach.

“My North Star is, what do I deeply love? What’s the story underneath this story? If I don’t find that undertow, there’s no more.”

Now, it seems she and Baumbach have found their inspiration. According to insiders, the duo has pitched an idea to Warner Bros.

DETAILS UNDER WRAPS

While details remain under wraps, sources claim this development has sparked preliminary discussions.

Still, representatives for both the studio and the filmmakers have pushed back on the rumours.

“There is no legitimacy to this reporting,” said a spokesperson for Gerwig and Baumbach.

If the sequel does move forward, it will face scheduling challenges.

POSSIBLE BARBIE 2 SCHEDULING CONFLICTS

Baumbach is currently finishing post-production on his latest Netflix project, a star-studded coming-of-age film featuring George Clooney, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Gerwig, meanwhile, is preparing for a “rock and roll” adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia for Netflix.

Margot Robbie, who starred as Barbie and produced the original film through her company LuckyChap, has been vocal about her admiration for Gerwig’s vision.

“She cracked the code on this film, as only she could,” Robbie said earlier this year. “Greta brought so much humanity, creativity, and joy to Barbie.”

BARBIE’S SUCCESS

The first Barbie movie followed its titular character as she left the idyllic Barbieland to confront existential questions in the real world.

It struck a chord globally, particularly for its feminist themes and clever satire. The film also featured Ryan Gosling as Ken, alongside a talented cast.

In South Africa, the movie resonated with audiences, sparking discussions about gender roles and self-discovery.

FANS ARE BUZZING

A sequel would likely continue to explore these themes, making it relevant to local audiences.

While no official confirmation exists, the possibility of another Barbie film has fans buzzing.

Gerwig and Baumbach’s ability to craft deeply personal yet commercially successful stories gives hope. As Gerwig once said, “When you listen to the right story, magic happens.”

WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE FIRST BARBIE MOVIE?

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