10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Barbie (2023)

Description: Clueless shares Barbie's satirical yet affectionate take on femininity and materialism. Both films use humor to explore deeper themes of self-discovery and societal expectations. Cher Horowitz's transformation from a superficial socialite to a more self-aware individual parallels Barbie's journey in the real world. The film's colorful, fashion-forward aesthetic is also reminiscent of Barbie's world.

Fact: Clueless is a modern adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma. The film popularized phrases like 'As if!' and 'Whatever!' Alicia Silverstone's iconic yellow plaid outfit was inspired by a vintage Christian Dior design.

Description: The Princess Diaries, like Barbie, is a coming-of-age story about a young woman navigating unexpected changes in her life. Both films blend humor with heartfelt moments and emphasize the importance of self-acceptance. The transformation scenes in The Princess Diaries, where Mia Thermopolis learns to embrace her royal identity, echo Barbie's own journey of self-discovery.

Fact: Anne Hathaway was cast after the director saw her audition tape where she fell off a chair. Julie Andrews initially turned down the role of Queen Clarisse but changed her mind after reading the script. The film was shot in San Francisco, but the fictional country of Genovia was inspired by European monarchies.

Description: Like Barbie (2023), Legally Blonde is a vibrant, empowering comedy that challenges stereotypes about femininity and intelligence. Both films feature a protagonist who defies expectations—Elle Woods, much like Barbie, proves that being feminine doesn't mean you can't be taken seriously. The film's pink-heavy aesthetic and upbeat tone mirror Barbie's playful yet meaningful approach.

Fact: Reese Witherspoon was initially hesitant to take the role of Elle Woods, fearing it might typecast her. The bend and snap scene was inspired by a real-life incident where a friend of the screenwriter used the move to get a guy's attention. The film was based on a novel by Amanda Brown, who drew from her own experiences at Stanford Law School.

Description: Ella Enchanted, like Barbie, is a feminist fairy tale that subverts traditional gender roles. Both films feature a strong female protagonist who challenges the expectations placed upon her. The whimsical, fairy-tale aesthetic of Ella Enchanted is similar to Barbie's fantastical yet grounded world.

Fact: The film is based on a Newbery Honor book by Gail Carson Levine. Anne Hathaway performed all her own stunts, including the sword fighting scenes. The film's musical numbers were added specifically for the movie adaptation.

Description: 13 Going on 30 shares Barbie's themes of self-discovery and the challenges of adulthood. Both protagonists experience a sudden shift in their realities that forces them to reevaluate their lives. The film's playful tone and nostalgic elements (like the Thriller dance scene) mirror Barbie's blend of humor and heartfelt moments.

Fact: Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo had never met before filming their first scene together. The Thriller dance sequence was improvised on set. The film was originally titled Suddenly 30 in some international markets.

Description: A Cinderella Story and Barbie both modernize classic fairy tale tropes with a focus on female empowerment. Both stories feature protagonists who overcome adversity to find their own happily ever after. The film's mix of romance, humor, and self-discovery mirrors Barbie's narrative style.

Fact: Hilary Duff was a last-minute replacement for the lead role after another actress dropped out. The diner where Sam works was a real location in California. The film's success led to several direct-to-video sequels.

Description: This film, like Barbie, is a colorful, music-filled coming-of-age story about a young woman finding her place in the world. Both protagonists use creativity and imagination to navigate their challenges. The film's upbeat tone and focus on self-expression align with Barbie's themes.

Fact: Lindsay Lohan performed all her own singing in the film. The movie was based on a novel by Dyan Sheldon. The band Sidarthur was fictional but inspired by real-life rock bands of the era.

Description: Mean Girls and Barbie both critique societal norms and the pressures placed on women to conform. Both films use humor and satire to address serious issues like peer pressure and self-identity. The Plastics' rigid social hierarchy in Mean Girls can be compared to the structured perfection of Barbie's world before her existential crisis.

Fact: Tina Fey wrote the screenplay based on the non-fiction book Queen Bees and Wannabes. Lindsay Lohan ad-libbed many of her lines, including the famous 'She doesn't even go here!' The film's 'Burn Book' was inspired by real-life 'slam books' that were popular in some schools.

Description: The Devil Wears Prada shares Barbie's exploration of identity and the pressures of perfection. Both films feature protagonists navigating high-pressure environments that challenge their self-worth. The fashion-centric world of The Devil Wears Prada is akin to Barbie's stylish universe.

Fact: Meryl Streep based her portrayal of Miranda Priestly on several real-life fashion editors. Anne Hathaway's iconic wardrobe change was inspired by Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face. The film was adapted from Lauren Weisberger's novel, which was loosely based on her experiences working at Vogue.

Description: Enchanted and Barbie both play with the tropes of fairy tales while offering a modern twist. Both films contrast idealized fantasy worlds with the complexities of reality. Giselle's journey from animation to live-action parallels Barbie's transition from her plastic world to the real one.

Fact: Amy Adams was inspired by classic Disney princesses like Snow White for her role. The film's animated opening sequence was done by the same team that worked on Disney's classic films. The song 'That's How You Know' was nominated for an Academy Award.