Greta Gerwig‘s Barbie has not only captivated audiences but also shattered records, surpassing the remarkable $1 billion milestone at the box office. This historic achievement has solidified Gerwig’s position as the first female director to accomplish this feat, etching her name in cinematic history. Amidst fierce competition from other successful films, Barbie stands tall with its unprecedented success. At the heart of this triumph lies the film’s exceptional cast, with Margot Robbie taking on the role of the iconic doll, Barbie.

The Unconventional Casting Journey Of Margot Robbie

Margot Robbie‘s journey to portraying Barbie in the live-action adaptation took an unexpected and unconventional route. Despite her established status as an accomplished actress, Robbie initially envisioned a different role behind the scenes of the Barbie project. Serving as a producer on the film, she was prepared to hand the role of Barbie to another actress. However, the story took a different turn, ultimately leading her to embrace the role herself. In an insightful interview, Robbie revealed her unique perspective on the casting process. Despite her producer status, Robbie didn’t automatically assume the role; instead, she emphasized Greta Gerwig’s pivotal role as the film’s director. Robbie’s readiness to step aside if needed demonstrated her dedication to the project’s creative vision. Her approach showcased a balance between her dual roles as a producer and an actress, ensuring that the casting decision would serve the film’s narrative above all.

Exploring Other Contenders: Amy Schumer And Anne Hathaway

The casting of Margot Robbie as Barbie wasn’t the initial plan. Prior to Robbie’s involvement, the film’s trajectory featured other notable names in consideration for the iconic role. Amy Schumer, known for her comedic prowess, was initially selected to portray Barbie. The original storyline revolved around a narrative where a woman faces challenges for not embodying society’s ideal image of perfection. However, due to scheduling conflicts, Schumer eventually stepped away from the project, leading to a change in casting.

Anne Hathaway also emerged as a contender for the coveted role during a crucial phase of the film’s development. With Olivia Milch as the writer and Alethea Jones as the director, the project was evolving under Sony’s guidance. However, the transition of rights to Mattel prompted changes, leading to the postponement of the film’s release date. Despite Hathaway’s association with the role, the project encountered setbacks that ultimately altered its course.

Collaboration And Destiny: Margot Robbie’s Path To Barbie

Margot Robbie’s journey to the role of Barbie was marked by fate, collaboration, and admiration. Her longstanding connection with director Greta Gerwig dates back to their previous works, with Robbie starring in I, Tonya and Gerwig contributing to Lady Bird. The two creatives shared mutual respect for each other’s talents, planting the seeds for future collaboration. Robbie’s involvement in Barbie was further solidified by Gerwig’s specific vision for the project, tailor-made to suit Robbie’s strengths.

Robbie’s familiarity with Gerwig’s works, as well as her partner Noah Baumbach’s contributions to the script, fostered a creative synergy that was destined to flourish. As Gerwig’s script incorporated Robbie and Ryan Gosling’s names from the outset, it underscored their integral roles in bringing the iconic characters to life.

Before stepping into the shoes of Barbie, Robbie had worked with acclaimed female directors, enriching her experience and perspectives. Her collaborations with directors like Cathy Yan and Josie Rourke showcased her commitment to diverse and meaningful projects. While gender doesn’t dictate her directorial choices, Robbie’s praise for Gerwig’s directorial prowess reflects the impact of their collaboration.

In a world where casting decisions can be intricate puzzles, Margot Robbie’s journey to becoming Barbie stands as a testament to destiny, collaboration, and the fluidity of creative vision.