Pseudo-feminism portrayed in Greta Gerwig's Barbie (2023)

Wonnink, Reina Syafia Salma (2025) Pseudo-feminism portrayed in Greta Gerwig's Barbie (2023). Sarjana thesis, UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung.

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Abstract

This research discusses the phenomenon of pseudo-feminism in Greta Gerwig's Barbie (2023) which is claimed to be a feminist film. Pseudo-feminism refers to a fake feminism when women use their gender to gain privilege and power, but destroy the basic values of gender equality. This research aims to analyze how pseudo-feminism is represented in Barbie (2023), and how the power dynamics between men and women in the film contribute toward the shape of pseudo-feminism. This research used a qualitative approach with a descriptive anlaysis method by applying Judith Butler's gender performativity theory and Michel Foucault's power/knowledge. The analysis was conducted through narration, dialog, and visual elements of the film, including mise en scene and cinematography aspects. The results of the analysis showed pseudo-feminism was portrayed through the way Barbies dominated men in Barbie Land and also how Barbie represented a level of empowerment on the surface. They used their gender to gain personal advantages, like keeping control over leadership, decisions, and social status. This did not reflect real feminism, which focuses on equality. The analysis revealed that the power dynamic between men and women in the film led to pseudo-feminism, as female dominance was sustained through established social discourses that suppressed male agency. Attempts at resistance were shown as ineffective, highlighting a shift from equality toward a reversed gender imbalance. This study concludes that instead of being a representation of true feminism, this film reflected a wrong perspective on the values of equality and created new gender injustice.

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