Barbie makes history as first female-directed film to cross $1b at the box office

In just 17 days since its release, the Hollywood blockbuster film “Barbie” has surpassed the billion-dollar mark, reaching a staggering $1.03 billion (£808 million) in global ticket sales, according to a statement by Warner Bros. This remarkable achievement has also made history for Greta Gerwig, who becomes the first female filmmaker to accomplish such a feat on her own.

Warner Bros. has hailed this moment as a “watershed moment,” as “Barbie” not only becomes the first movie directed solely by a woman to gross $1 billion, but it also achieved this milestone faster than any other film in Warner Bros.’ century-long history, outpacing even those directed by men, according to company executives.

Jeff Goldstein, president of domestic distribution in the US, praised Greta Gerwig for her exceptional work in bringing the beloved cross-generational icon, Barbie, and her world to life with a captivating and emotionally engaging story. The film’s success is evident in the long lineups at theaters and the high number of repeat viewings, demonstrating that movies are making a strong comeback after facing challenges from pandemic lockdowns and streaming service competition.

The movie’s unique pink-hued theme has received critical acclaim and led to numerous selfies being taken at doll box displays in cinemas across the UK. With a star-studded cast, including Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken, “Barbie” has raked in $459 million in the United States and an impressive $572 million in overseas markets.