Coppola's Classic Influence on Greta Gerwig's Box Office Hit ‘Barbie’

Since the film industry's stagnation due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, numerous cinematic endeavors have emerged, playing pivotal roles in its financial recovery. Christopher Nolan's 'Tenet' and Marvel's 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' made notable strides, but 2023's 'Barbenheimer' was the real game-changer. This unexpected face-off between Greta Gerwig’s 'Barbie' and Nolan’s 'Oppenheimer' not only revived the box office but also showcased the symbiotic benefits of simultaneous releases.

Outshining its competition, 'Barbie' grossed a staggering $1.4 billion, affirming its cultural dominance in the summer of 2023. The film, starring Hollywood heavyweights Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, thrived not only due to its captivating plot but also its impeccable marketing strategies. 'Barbie' narrates the whimsical tale of a young woman navigating the vibrant hues of a fantastical plastic world, which turns chaotic when unusual thoughts plague her mind. This dilemma propels her to explore 21st-century America, accompanied by her companion, Ken.

Credited for its critical acclaim is the visionary director, Gerwig, celebrated for her past works like 'Ladybird' and 'Little Women'. In an interview with Letterboxd, Gerwig delved into the myriad of cinematic legends that influenced 'Barbie'. While she acknowledged the impacts of Spielberg’s 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind', Kubrick’s '2001: A Space Odyssey', and others, it was her choice of Coppola's 'The Godfather' that intrigued many.

Explaining the unexpected connection, Gerwig stated, "The Godfather's inclusion is a nod to the aesthetic brilliance of Robert Evans and Coppola. It remains a timeless masterpiece." While drawing parallels between the opulent world of 'Barbie' and the gritty universe of the Corleone family might seem far-fetched, Gerwig's reverence for the 1972 crime saga is palpable. 'The Godfather', an intricate portrayal of the Italian-American mafia’s pursuit of the American dream, continues to inspire filmmakers globally.

Reflecting on the 'Barbenheimer' craze, Coppola remarked, “Although I haven't seen these films yet, their immense popularity, coupled with their unique standalone nature, underscores a significant win for cinema.”