In an unexpected twist from the prevailing critical and commercial consensus, Colombian musician Shakira has expressed her views on the 2023 Barbie movie. The film, directed by Greta Gerwig, garnered widespread acclaim for its critique of the patriarchy. However, Shakira’s two sons—11-year-old Milan and nine-year-old Sasha—were not fans. They found the movie to be “emasculating”.
Shakira elaborated on her perspective, stating: “I agree, to a certain extent. I’m raising two boys. I want them to feel powerful too [while] respecting women. I like pop culture when it attempts to empower women without robbing men of their possibility to be men, to also protect and provide. I believe in giving women all the tools and the trust that we can do it all without losing our essence, without losing our femininity. I think that men have a purpose in society and women have another purpose as well. We complement each other, and that complement should not be lost.” She emphasized the importance of shared responsibilities and mutual support.
Shakira’s stance has resonated with some conservative commentators, including Piers Morgan, who applauded her for standing up for men’s roles. The singer’s commitment to empowering women through her music remains unwavering, as demonstrated by her recent track, “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” where she declared, “Women don’t cry; we make money.” This powerful message resonated with many, providing strength and self-empowerment to women who needed validation for expressing their own truths.
In summary, Shakira’s nuanced perspective highlights the delicate balance between empowering women and acknowledging men’s roles in society. As the Barbie movie continues to spark conversations, her insights serve as a thought-provoking addition to the ongoing dialogue about gender dynamics and empowerment.