Friday, August 25, 2023

Fashion Pack Barbie The Movie 2023 HPK01: First Look



LITE SPECS:

Name: Barbie The Movie Fashion Pack

Box Number: HPK01

Release Date: June 1, 2023

Designer: N/A

Label: N/A (Signature)

 

OFFICIAL MATTEL DESCRIPTION:

“Greetings from Barbie Land! This collectible Barbie doll fashion pack recreates three iconic looks from Barbie The Movie. Each outfit comes with shoes and accessories so fans can dress their dolls to look just like the main Barbie character. Deluxe details like real pockets and button closures make these Barbie clothes a great gift for any collector.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

The Barbie the Movie (2023) Fashion Pack (HPK01) is such a lovely pack of three different outfits featured exclusively in the movie! I really love seeing Margot Robbie and her doll counterpart in each and every one of these outfits! It is a designer doll fashion Heaven all the way to the glamorous moon and stars! I hope that they do decide to create more fashions inspired by this movie even long after the movie has been released. The three outfits consist of two different beach attire and one cozy pajama set. Each one is absolutely lovelier than the last. Unfortunately, even though I ordered this fashion pack at the beginning of June close to the time of the release date, I still have not received it yet from Mattel Creations. This is disappointing because it happens to be the last order for Wave 1 that I have not received yet. At the last minute, I quickly decided that it would be best to order it elsewhere to get this fashion pack finally sent to me fast so I can review these accessories on time. I hope by the end of the week I will have it delivered to me so I can finally do a full review including the buyer’s guide. 

 

I can't be too upset about this because these dolls, playsets, and accessories are in high demand. This comes with the pink turf and fuchsia territory Barbie Bestie! Where's my pink camouflage? It's all fashion warfare and warpaint. I will cry over the last flesh tone strawberry flavored lip tint that can't be found! Oh, the tragedy in the making!!!

 

VIDEO UNBOXING:

Check out my YouTube video to see me unbox this fashion pack here or view it below!

(Video Link Here)

Full review and buyer’s guide coming soon!

 

Blog Article Resources:

https://creations.mattel.com/collections/barbie-the-movie#?page=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://creations.mattel.com/products/barbie-the-movie-fashion-pack-hpk01

https://youtu.be/aIqvbAiJzk4

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Pink Corvette Convertible Barbie The Movie 2023 HPK02: First Look

 



LITE SPECS:

Name: Barbie The Movie Pink Corvette Convertible

Box Number: HPK02

Release Date: June 1, 2023

Car Make: Chevrolet

Car Model: 1956 Corvette Stringray

Manufacturer: Mattel, Inc. (General Motors Trademarks used under license agreement.)

 

OFFICIAL MATTEL DESCRIPTION:

“Take home a part of Barbie The Movie with a collectible Barbie Corvette. Inspired by the main character’s car in the film, this bubblegum-pink beauty looks like it cruised right off the big screen. With a curvy silhouette and retro trim, the vintage-inspired ride is a piece of art on four wheels. It features a working trunk and doors, plus steerable, rolling wheels.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

The Pink Corvette Convertible Barbie The Movie 2023 (HPK02) is one of two car replicas made for this aforementioned titular movie. The other being the Hot Wheels RC Barbie Corvette Car Barbie The Movie 2023 (HPW40). I already did a first impressions article and a full review on the remote control motorized Hot Wheels version that you can read respectively here and here. They do look a lot alike and can easily be confused with each other. HPK02 main difference from HPW40 outside of motorization capabilities, is that it can seat 4 dolls at the same time! This might make this replica more desirable than the motorized two door even at having to pay about $20 more! The opportunity is too great to not pass up a photo opportunity showcasing 4 dolls having a friendly get together and joy riding together aimlessly! Come on Barbie let's go party indeed!

 

Also, I will warn you as I have with the first impression article and full review article for HPW40. I know nothing about cars or toy cars! I just like Barbie, her accessories, and playsets! So, come for me not for the details, thoughts, and opinions that I am about to bestow upon you Barbie Bestie!

 

VIDEO UNBOXING:

Check out my YouTube video to see me unbox this car replica here or view it below!




Full review and buyer’s guide coming soon!

 

Blog Article Resources:

https://creations.mattel.com/collections/barbie-the-movie#?page=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://lalalollystoybox.blogspot.com/2023/07/hot-wheels-rc-barbie-corvette-car.html

https://youtu.be/nG1DTk5sgYQ

 

 

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Ken Doll in White and Gold Tracksuit Barbie The Movie 2023 HPK04: First Look


LITE SPECS:

Name: Ken Doll in White and Gold Tracksuit – Barbie The Movie

Box Number: HPK04

Release Date: June 1, 2023

Designer: Carlyle Nuera

Label: Black (Signature)

 

OFFICIAL MATTEL DESCRIPTION:

“Ken makes quite the statement in his white and gold disco tracksuit. Inspired by one look in Barbie The Movie, his fashion features a working zipper and real pockets. The metallic accent fabric adds deluxe detail to his cinematic look. Celebrating Barbie The Movie, this Ken doll makes a great gift for fans and collectors alike.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

The Barbie the Movie (2023) Ken Doll in White and Gold Tracksuit (HPK04) is a much hyped about male doll! It is no surprise, since he is the other main Ken in the movie that looks to be quite the entertaining personality. From the trailer, we are given the impression that he is very combative and competitive with blonde Ken over Barbie's attention and affections. He looks like he does succeed in stealing the spotlight in a manner that would make Life in the Dreamhouse Ryan envious! While there is an abundance of blonde male Ken dolls for collecting, it is great to see a handsome, dark haired Ken doll that happens to be Asian too! I do like his face a lot and also think it is wonderful to see all of the beauty marks on his face that helps to add to his uniqueness.

 

I love his outfit! No really! I know it seems as if I love the other Ken doll outfits equally making it appear that this one is no different but I truly do adore his outfit! The white and gold tracksuit looks so good! I can see my other Ken dolls in my collection either wearing this outfit in its entirety or mixing and matching the pieces with other clothes to make a new outfit! There isn't enough good quality clothes for Ken in general and I can't wait to review this one so I can see the quality in person for myself.

 

 Note: This is a Mattel Creation exclusive doll that can only be ordered from Mattel's website. There is also a "limit two (2) per person" order restrict placed on this doll. https://creations.mattel.com/products/barbie-the-movie-ken-doll-hpk04

 

VIDEO UNBOXING:

Check out my YouTube video to see me unbox this doll here or view it below!




Full review and buyer’s guide coming soon!

 

Blog Article Resources:

https://creations.mattel.com/collections/barbie-the-movie#?page=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://creations.mattel.com/products/barbie-the-movie-ken-doll-hpk04

https://youtu.be/37QQB06OAH8

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.

Tuesday, August 22, 2023

Barbie in Gold Disco Jumpsuit Doll Barbie The Movie 2023 HPJ99: First Look



LITE SPECS:

Name: Barbie in Gold Disco Jumpsuit

Box Number: HPJ99

Release Date: June 1, 2023

Designer: Robert Best/Linda Kyaw-Merschon

Label: Black (Signature)

 

OFFICIAL MATTEL DESCRIPTION:

“This collectible Barbie doll shines in a sequined disco jumpsuit. Modeled after her character’s look in Barbie The Movie, this doll features big disco hair and metallic jewelry. Golden heels complete her sparkling ensemble. In the likeness of the actress as Barbie, she makes a great gift for fans and collectors alike.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

The Barbie the Movie (2023) Barbie in Gold Disco Jumpsuit Doll (HPJ99) is such a lovely doll! I really like her outfit! She reminds me of one of the gorgeous Barbie dolls from the 1980s that I had as a kid. And that particular Barbie was the very first one that I had been gifted as a child for Christmas. Could it be that this one is based upon that one? It goes without saying that I have a soft spot in my heart for this doll due to nostalgia. So of course, I must get this doll and have her as one of the main dolls for display in my collection. I get the feeling that the inspiration for a lot of the dolls that they created for this movie came directly from the 80s and the 90s. I must be about the same age as the writers, directors, and producers because each of these dolls I recognize, and I feel that internally I am almost preprogrammed to feel warm towards them and to want to purchase them. I am absolutely loving her look and that shimmery gold outfit. Every piece of clothes from this product line, I totally want my other dolls to wear too! Looking forward to getting this doll soon!

 

VIDEO UNBOXING:

Check out my YouTube video to see me unbox this doll here or view it below!




Full review and buyer’s guide coming soon!

 

Blog Article Resources:

https://creations.mattel.com/collections/barbie-the-movie#?page=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://bit.ly/3P0pxta

https://youtu.be/Xf27UjH703k

 

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.

Monday, August 21, 2023

Ken Doll Denim Matching Set Barbie The Movie 2023 HRF27: First Look


LITE SPECS:

Name: Ken Doll Wearing Denim Matching Set

Box Number: HRF27

Release Date: June 1, 2023

Designer: Javier Meabe

Label: Black (Barbie Signature)

 

OFFICIAL MATTEL DESCRIPTION:

“The Ken-ergy is at an all-time high! Inspired by Ken’s character in the film, this collectible doll wears a head-turning denim look. With his unbuttoned vest and iconic Ken boxers peeking out from his jeans, he captures all of film Ken’s signature style. Celebrating Barbie The Movie, this Ken doll makes a great gift for fans and collectors alike.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

The Barbie the Movie (2023) Ken Doll Denim Matching Set (HRF27) is one of the hot dolls to own and it all has to do with his outfit! Sporting the same outfit as his human counterpart from the movie, this doll's attire was created to generate a sexy look inspired by the black and white Calvin Klein ads of the 90s. The only difference is this doll is in full color and the underwear enticingly playing peekaboo with every gender's heartstring riding dangerously above his pair of denim pants ever so cleverly stating his name Ken instead of Calvin Klein on the waistband. I find his design and clothes to be rather smart and charming, and I am looking forward to providing my thoughts and review about him real soon. Since his release on June 1, 2023, he has sold out quite a few times. If you can find him online at retail value, grab him real quick. He is certainly a collector's item in the making.

 

VIDEO UNBOXING:

Check out my YouTube video to see me unbox this doll here or view it below!



Full review and buyer’s guide coming soon!

 

Blog Article Resources:

https://creations.mattel.com/collections/barbie-the-movie#?page=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://bit.ly/3Ni4aCg

https://youtu.be/deio8TY6ENE

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.

Monday, July 31, 2023

Barbie The Movie 2023 Movie Review

 



 

INTRODUCTION

Title: Barbie the Movie

Rated: PG13 (Not for Young Kids)

Release Date: July 21st, 2023 (Nationwide)

Director: Greta Gerwig

Screenplay Written by: Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach

Cast: Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. Also starring America Ferrera, Simu Liu, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, Hari Nef, and Will Ferrell.

Teaser Tagline: She is everything. He is just Ken.

 

BACKGROUND INFO & SUMMARY  

This live action movie about the iconic Barbie doll, created by businesswoman Ruth Handler (and officially launched for mass consumption on March 9, 1959), has finally been made into reality. It was originally announced to be made in September 2009 and began development and production in 2014. Originally the very talented and awesome Amy Schumer was supposed to star as Barbie before creative differences got in the way. She dropped out. In 2019 Margot Robbie was cast and the rest fashion doll history.

Wikipedia stated this best when summing up the gist of this movie: "Barbie and Ken who go on a journey of self-discovery after their expulsion from the utopia Barbieland." They enter the real world to find answers to help fix Barbieland, but not without some major trials and tribulations along the way. But as a matter of fact, it was not only this fictitious Barbie that was facing some serious obstacles along the way, but so was this movie in finally getting made. I mean over ten years? Really?

As an avid Barbie doll collector and fan, here is a precious glimpse into our beloved Barbie doll's imaginary world! Finally, a live action movie that showcases our girl in her full glory, but does it live up to its hype? Since last year the fanfare over this movie has been building. When Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling filmed that infamous rollerblading scenes that we now see in the trailers, it went viral sending off various Barbiecore trends over the past year. And these trends are not slowing down at all! The Barbie fandom community cannot keep up with all of the collaborations that have been unveiled as we get closer and closer to the release of this movie (editor note: This portion of article was written prior to seeing the movie on July 19th). There is a lot that Mattel has riding on the success of this movie! But does it deliver not only in the image and entertainment value? Does this movie also succeed in delivering on a solid message that will resonate with the billions of Barbie fans that are out there and will help to influence the new fans and next generations yet to come? Barbie has always been about both loving yourself and being yourself. It is a theme from the very beginning when the doll was first created that this concept, in its most basic form, was always there taking its time to develop and become a more solid message as time (and the development of the doll) progressed on. It was certainly a proud moment in 2016, when Mattel started including in its playline Barbies and Kens of varied skin tones, face molds, heights, shapes, and sizes. This one change and transition brought about a revitalization to the playline at a time when sales were down, and people were beginning to stop believing in the power and message of this doll. Grown adults and children could finally see a bit more of themselves in the entire doll collection and expand, not only their imagination, but their confidence too as well. Can this movie not only entertain, but be pink and somehow deliver this modern direction dreamhouse-style without taking themselves too seriously? I know that as a fan of Life in the Dreamhouse, I wanted to see something close to that wonderful webisode but retain its originality too.

Although there are a lot of important aspects to pay attention to, I do know that the one main message that they are trying to deliver is definitely in regards to inclusion. As I watch this movie, I will be looking see if they succeed in providing us with a well-rounded movie that will lead to a sequel or if it is just a fun summer movie or the least of the least a flop and failure.

 

TRAILER RECAP (SPOILERS) 

Thus far, just from the trailers alone, we know the following: There are many Barbies that exist in an alternate imaginary world known as Barbieland. Their world is based upon our collective thoughts about doll life, and it is fantastic! Their mundane lifestyle is our plastic dreams come true. Life is indeed fantastic when you're made of plastic! Of course, this is all threatened when Margot Robbie's Barbie starts to experience non-Barbie like things begin to happen to her like not gently floating into her car, asking out loud at her dance party if any of the other dolls thought of death or the worst! One day, your perfectly arched feet turn flat! We see that she has to travel to the outer limits of Barbieland to visit with the mysterious but neglected oracle splits Barbie (Editor: After the movie comes out, it will be revealed she is officially known as weird Barbie) for advice, and she tells her about visiting the Real World for more knowledge. Apparently, Barbie doesn't want to go and wants to stay ignorant. I don't blame her! I would, too, and have no problem admitting that! If I were her, I would go back to the dreamhouse and stick my flat feet back into my stilettos and pretend it didn't happen for as long as I could! Eventually, she does go because she becomes viewed as less than perfect in Barbieland, and strange things continue to happen that need fixing. She makes the decision to go and unknown to her, a Ken that appears to be genuinely fond of her, hides in the backseat of her car, with his rollerblades no less, and accompanies her there. When they get there, the real world is a rather tough place to exist for a doll to get used to. Apparently, she gets arrested twice, separated from Ken, and is tossed in jail, where she speaks with women that tell her they gave up on Barbie a long time ago once they stopped being a child. (Editor: I must say that this is very inaccurate, but I am leaving it in any way for the fun of it! After all it was my first initial impressions.) This hurts her a lot. She gets out of jail, potentially a jail break, and ends up at Mattel headquarters where eventually she has to run away from them too! But this time she has help in the form of one of the employees: Gloria. She, Gloria, and a little girl (affiliated with Gloria) help her escape and return to Barbieland. As Barbie is driving and is showing Gloria and the little girl around town, we find out that Barbie has no idea where Kens live. Meanwhile, Ken is still separated from Barbie and is in the Real World causing himself a lot of trouble. He somehow ends up at a hospital antagonizing a doctor because he believes only men could be doctors. Apparently, before he returns to Barbieland, he has a learning arc to complete too (as does all of the other dolls) should Barbieland continue to thrive and survive. Of course, in between all of this is great action, music, and dance scenes! As we get closer to the release date of the movie, we get more trailers teasing other parts of the movie that we haven't seen yet such as Ken sings theatrically "I'm Just Ken" like it is from a cheesy 1980s off Broadway musical. I could try to piece this together with the other clues but at this point, it would be best just to see the movie which is real soon!

 

PREDICTIONS 

I have covered just about everything that we know from the majority of trailers that I have seen, and this is primarily my perceptions, presumptions, and point of view on what happens in the movie. I am excited to not only see how accurate I am in my presumptions, but I would like to make some predictions to see if I am right as I watch this movie!

I believe that mystery splits Barbie (weird Barbie) visits the real world quite often and is one of the dolls behind the odd changes happening inside Barbieland. She is probably working with Mattel and is leading a double life. I think that she could be one of the eldest dolls like Francie or something. I also think that “mystery-splits” isn't the first doll to escape to the Real World. Midge could be the first and is living and raising a family in the Real World with a different version of Alan. The real world imitates doll life and Mattel creates a Midge doll that is pregnant too with disastrous results. I think that Ken has to stay a bit longer in the Real World for his character growth. He must learn about the Real World and Mattel in his own way, and he helps Barbie with what he knows in the end to save Barbieland. I bet at the end we will learn more about the Kens and where they live! I am sure they have their own Kenland! Since it has been hinted, I wonder if after everything has occurred, will Ken finally get to visit Barbie at her place as he asked? Or will she visit Ken at his place leaving it all up to our imagination?

If you have not watched the movie yet then play along with me! Think about the trailer and then make your best predictions about the movie before actually reading the rest of this review! It will be fun to see how much we got right together or didn't see coming from the trailer Barbie Besties!

FYI, I got tickets to the limited release early premiere on Wednesday July 19th, 2023. And I can't wait to see if my assumptions are correct! I picked out my outfit and the dolls I will be bringing. Looking forward to this experience a lot and I am sooo excited!

 

AFTER VIEW DISCUSSION

Piecing it together!

I just saw it, and I am speechless! It was amazing, and it was nothing like what I predicted! I must have only gotten one thing right! It was a refreshing take on what Barbie stands for traditionally from the past, modern-day, and for the future! They delved deeper and went beyond the ideas and concepts of loving yourself and explained the message behind being yourself and the courage it takes to fight preconceived notions and misconceptions about normalcy and identification. It was indeed done seriously without taking themselves too seriously. There are quite a few laughs outside of what you see in the trailer. The response was in return favorable.

For the most part, the story is very straightforward from the trailer. In reviewing my trailer recap, I see I got some details wrong that I thought were fact. I tried to backtrack and denote where I was completely off so as not to confuse anyone about the real plot. I decided to leave them in for the fun of it and to show my thought process and perceptions at play. I can confirm without spoiling it too much that there are indeed things changing in Barbieland, and it is uncomfortable. The imaginary world is indeed connected with the real world. Our Barbies have human counterparts that keep Barbieland in its utopian state. But if there are enough intrusive thoughts and stray ideas introduced, it can influence this world enough, and change can spread like wildfire. This is what happens in Barbieland and why Margot Robbie's Barbie leaves Barbieland to find her human. As it turns out, it happens to be Gloria, a married mom employed at Mattel trying to find a new Barbie design that will resonate with the younger generation that is jaded and is quickly losing loyalty and interest. Gloria has a daughter now in high school who is cynical about playing with dolls and has formed more adult feminist ideas. To shun Barbies is a rite of passage into the adult world. Gloria herself has lost some passion and spirit in her and unfortunately it is showing up as she makes her Barbie designs. She needs to find a way to reconnect with her former self that took the world on in a youthful and strong way but from a stronger and more worldly and wiser perspective. As Barbie travels deeper and deeper into the real world to find Gloria, she becomes more reluctant. Self-awareness is a painful matter, and human emotions can be overwhelming and bring complications. She is reluctant and resistant to these new feelings and changes because her world was perfect, and she doesn't want it to change any further or to learn more. She thinks that finding a way to stop and reverse these changes is the way to solve her problems. She has no idea that that isn't the answer. Whether she likes it or not, it is a journey unto her in uncovering her own identity and to answer the questions and define who she is all on her own: Who is Barbie? What is her history? Where does she come from? Who is she now and where will she be in the future? How does she conduct herself in the here and now and in the future? These are all universal feelings and situations that we all deal with as humans. As an imaginative person, I have wondered how Barbie would deal with real world issues if she was taken to task to do so. As it turns out, I wasn't the only one who thought about this, and Greta Gerwig sought out to write and direct a fun summertime movie that covers the concerns of fans and critics alike in a thoughtful, but yet, thought-provoking manner all the same.

 

CASTING AND ACTING

When it was first announced that Amy Schumer would be Barbie, I initially loved the idea because I think she is a gifted and talented comedian that could have brought some fun concepts to the movie. (Years ago, I saw her perform live and I could not stop laughing!) Once that fell through, I had to get over my disappointment at a missed opportunity. I am glad I did! Margot Robbie did an amazing job as Barbie. She looks just like her and provided a full range of emotions for that part that was truly heartfelt. And she seems to still be having a blast getting dressed up as Barbie long after the movie finished filming while she promotes it to the press! Ryan Gosling as Ken is truly amazing. He is a triple threat acting, singing, and dancing. He plays Ken as a loyal companion vying for Barbie's attentions in both a silly way and a way that elicits empathy from you. You hope that he has character growth so that it is likely Barbie will return his affections and like him back. America Ferrera as a bewildered mom and employee gives a very special and captivating performance. The importance of her character should not be overlooked or unapplauded. It is her character that delivers and drives home the overall message that we all universally need to hear about womanhood, and she speaks directly to and for women of all kind and fellowship that exist strongly in the audience and fandom.

 

CINEMATOGRAPHY 

Visuals of this world are just stunning! Using the color pink in the volume and the amount that they did could have gone horribly wrong and also turned quite a few people off. Pink can be a color that can be either very aesthetically pleasing or horribly wrong, and it can happen in the blink of an eye. They did create a global shortage of pink paint from using it for the movie. The look does work out great. They used various shades of pink to help balance out the strong signature Barbie pink and other colors, hues, and tones that match well and balance the high usage of the color a lot. In the end, you don't notice all the pink and get caught up in the storyline, which is a good thing. The set design makes me want this dreamhouse and world for my own home or a place to visit often. Barbieland is a fun pink dream come true where you don't want to wake up from should you end up there. Plastic pink beaches, sunny warm days with happy palm trees, cozy quaint pink town near your dreamhouse with other dreamhouses nearby. Barbieland must happen for real and soon!!

 

SURPRISES

I teared up twice during the movie which I didn't see coming. When the movie got touching and deep, it got you good. Anything where they referred how hard it is to be a woman and all its contradictions made me feel strongly in those moments. As I looked around the audience, I know that other women felt it too! A lot of us were vocal and spoke up loudly. In a good way that was in line with the mood of the movie. The synergy in the atmosphere of the movie theater was harmonious and great!

Moments where they were about Mom and daughter dynamics and their struggles too were right on. It doesn't feel that long ago that I was a kid with my Barbies and now I am a mom with a daughter with Barbies. The role reversal happens, and it leaves you bewildered at times, inadequate for the things you can't change but you thought you would when it was your turn as a mom. Yet somehow in the middle of it all, you still find in the uncertain overwhelming moments feeling that magically charmed strength. All of a sudden, you are capable and full of love for your little one beside you and it drives you. With all of your flaws, you make it work for you and yours. (I love you Lily!)

Also, I was right that someone in Barbieland betrays the other dolls, but I was absolutely shocked at who did the betrayal and the lasting effects thereafter. 

There are scenes that were genuinely laugh out loud funny! We did have a few laughs and shocking moments that I won't spoil. 

I was surprised that I did get right Ken's self-discovery and journey! He does learn a lot about himself and how it relates to Barbie. However, he is not the one to help Barbie save Barbieland or help her to empower her with her self-discovery or self-worth. He learns that it is a personal journey that every human (and now every doll) must take accountability on their own for their personal development and growth.

 

OPINION 

La-Like: 

1 All the Barbies that I ever liked and their world in live action and 3D! Whoa!

2 I like Weirdo Barbie a lot and thought I wouldn't. I feel oddly embarrassed to admit that. It's ironic that I didn't give the weird one a chance to prove herself.

3 The display of the discontinued dolls! Interesting walk down Barbie history regarding some controversial dolls that at first Mattel had wanted to forget but now embrace due to nostalgia. How time softens the resolve and the perspective.

4 Barbie experiencing human feelings, emotions, and thoughts for the first time and dealing them in both a fashionable and unfashionable manner.

 

La-DisLike: 

1 They didn't use Alan or Midge enough. This probably would be one of the real surprises that I didn't like!

2 The actual villain/anti-hero of the story (which was not Mattel or weird Barbie).

3 I wanted more of the secondary Barbie and Ken characters and their back stories! When will the sequel come out? How soon can they do this?

 

La-Love:

1 Too many special scenes and moments to mention without the risk of over spoiling the movie! The best part is to let it take you by surprise because you think you know what to expect but you don't!

2 The meaning of being a woman and the relation between mom and daughter and how Barbie represents this bond so perfectly.

3 The surprise guest appearances that touched my heart the most was Rhea Perlman's motherly character and the elderly woman on the bus stop bench with western outfit Barbie!

4 The buzz amongst the movie theater audience! There was a genuineness about being a part of the communal excitement surrounding this movie. The audience was completely engaged whether they were dressed in their best pink attire, just being vocal, or brought their mini me to the theater too like me and my daughter. It was a great experience that you don't get from the regular casual movie going experience. The audience was very positive and responsive throughout the whole movie to all the exciting and pivotal points of the movie! It felt like the night of the shlong-poofa from Dreamhouse days. The big difference was it was in person at a movie theater instead of on twitter in the virtual realm. It was just more personal thereby a warmer experience.

 

CONCLUSION

This is a wonderful, surprisingly thoughtful, and clever summer movie. Timing was everything. I am glad it took this long to be released because it was well made with the right cast. Although I love Amy Schumer and I had wished long ago that she had stayed with the project until completion, Margot Robbie is the best Barbie I have ever seen and could have ever hoped for. I think that this is a summer hit, and a sequel is sure to follow. Of course, go and see it especially if you are a Barbie fan! Just like the meaning behind Barbie, this movie is everything and more!

This is where I say bye-bye, but like Barbie I don't want this story to end, so instead, with my best, biggest dreamhouse smile ever, I'll happily say, "Hi Barbie!" And maybe you'll say it back because every ending has a new beginning!💕

 

VIDEO REVIEW:

I do have a fun video review created from the perspective of a former Life in the Dreamhouse doll that has decided to go by the name #15. You can view the video here or watch it below!

 




 

Blog Article Resources:

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barbie_(film)

https://sea.ign.com/barbie-1/202459/news/fun-facts-you-should-know-about-barbie-the-movie

https://ew.com/movies/why-amy-schumer-dropped-out-original-barbie-movie/

https://people.com/movies/2022-emmy-awards-kate-mckinnon-calls-barbie-movie-epic-recalls-college-with-greta-gerwig/

https://www.vogue.com/article/barbie-costumes-jacqueline-durran

https://youtu.be/UrEX91lZL4g

 

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.

Sunday, July 23, 2023

Hot Wheels RC Barbie Corvette Car Barbie The Movie 2023 HPW40: Review and Buyer’s Guide

 




DOLL/PLAYSET PARTICULARS AND THOUGHTS:

The Hot Wheels RC Barbie Corvette Car Barbie The Movie 2023 (HPW40) is one of two great replicas of the Corvette Stingray that Margot Robbie's Barbie drives in the new Barbie the Movie opening this July 21st, 2023. Comparing this toy car to the images we see in trailer all the details are there! As mentioned in my first impressions article, although I do not know much about cars or toy cars, I can tell that a lot of realistic detail went into its design and appreciate it all the same. The interior is very spacious and is a two-seater that can comfortably hold two of your Barbie dolls in style! Although the interior is made of hard plastic, is designed to look like a real car interior with a pleasant white and light pink upholstery. If you look closely, you can see a lot of details were put into the dashboard that would make any doll or toy collector proud. If it matters to you and your doll photography purposes, the steering wheel does work too! Drive that car through the eye of a pink sewing needle Barbie! Unfortunately, the car doors do not work. They are fixed in place and cannot open and/or close. There is a trunk where you can store Barbie's accessories such as her luggage inside of. Can you imagine photo opportunities with your dolls packing the trunk to go on vacation or go to the store for grocery shopping? And if you use the wireless remote control, I also bet you will be able to take some great live motion action photos. With the use of the remote, the car can move forward, back, left, and right. The car is able to drive up to 5 miles per hour so you can shoot photos with high-speed chases or have one of those lazy day Sunday joyride driving day out and about town with no real destination to go.

To power this little car, the instructions advise that the car needs 5 AA batteries. However, I have come to realize after reading reviews online from Amazon, it should be advised that you actually need a total of 7 batteries. Five batteries to power the car itself and an additional 2 more for the remote control. Batteries are not included so when you buy this car, plan accordingly for your photoshoots particularly if you plan on driving to your photo session location like a park and there is no local convenience store nearby. Also, have adequate gas for your real car and check its battery as well! The toy car isn’t the only thing that needs power to drive!

 Finally, please note that there are two cars being sold in Wave 1! This car is not to be confused with the $75 toy car replica sold at Walmart that can house 4 dolls at the same time without the motorized wireless remote-control capabilities (HPK02). I made that mistake and now (as of the writing of this article) the one that has been ordered from Walmart is currently on back order.

Learn from my mistakes Barbie Besties!

 

FULL SPECS

Name: Hot Wheels RC Barbie The Movie Barbie Corvette

Box Number: HPW40

Release Date: June 1, 2023

Car Brand: Hot Wheels

Car Make: Chevrolet

Car Model: Corvette Stringray

Car Year: 1956 

Mobility: Left and right joystick remote controller that provides full navigation capabilities: forward, reverse, left and right.

Speed: Up to 5 miles per hour

Motorized: Yes, with wireless remote control.

Batteries: 5(car only)/7(car and remote-control) AA batteries required.

Product Dimensions: ‎42.67 x 18.29 x 11.94 inches

Item Weight: 2.25 pounds (Oh the horror story! You need plastic muscles to lift this one!)

 

MATTEL’S DESCRIPTION HIGHLIGHTS

1 Hot Wheels® RC Barbie® Corvette® from Barbie™ The Movie.

2 Just like the 1956 Corvette Stingray that Barbie drives in the film.

3 Two Barbie dolls can sit in the front seats.

4 Stow their accessories in the trunk that opens and closes.

5 Operates on 2.4 GHz frequency so that multiple remote-control cars can be played with at once without interference.

 

MY DOLL/PLAYSET FROM AMAZON:

My Hot Wheels RC Barbie Corvette Car Barbie The Movie 2023 (HPW40) was purchased at the same time as quite a few of my other Barbie The Movie doll/playset collectibles on June 2nd, 2023. Two-day shipping was selected, however, it was processed and delivered to me on June 6th. This toy car was packaged and shipped inside of an Amazon box along with the Barbie the Movie 2023 Perfect Day Pink Gingham Dress Barbie Doll (HPJ96). I ordered a total of six dolls/playsets from Amazon, and they arrived packaged differently for shipment. I suspect that Amazon got over flooded with orders and wanted them out of inventory as soon as possible. 

In person, the main things that I noticed is the following: It is very easy to get the specs mixed up with the other replica (HPK02) that is not remote controlled (RC). Simply because they look exactly alike. But here are the main differences other than one is RC while the other isn't: RC can hold up to two dolls while the replica can hold up to four. The car door opens and closes on the replica while the car doors on the RC cannot and are fixed in place. Other details that I have noticed: The remote control cannot be stored in the trunk but can be stored under the dashboard.

 

PRICING

This Hot Wheels RC Barbie Corvette Car (HPW40) is currently being sold online at Mattel Creations, Amazon, and Target. Again, this not to be confused with the $75 toy car replica sold at Walmart that can house 4 dolls at the same time without the motorized wireless remote-control capabilities (HPK02). Depending upon the store, the price ranges from $54.99 to $55.00 before tax and shipping and handling. It will also appear on online auction too as well like eBay, but the prices are twice and triple the current retail value. If you need it now or it is not for sale in your area, then please purchase wisely. 

 

I will update in the future with further details as more information becomes available to me.

 

Are you interested in owning her too? Well then go here to buy her now!

VIDEO REVIEW

Check out my YouTube video to see me review this doll here or view it below!


 




Blog Article Resources:

https://creations.mattel.com/collections/barbie-the-movie#?page=1

https://www.youtube.com/c/LalaLollysToyBox

https://bit.ly/3CgOYPt

https://lalalollystoybox.blogspot.com/2023/07/hot-wheels-rc-barbie-corvette-car.html

 

*Walmart Affiliate Link Info - This blog and website contains links to affiliate websites, and we receive an affiliate commission (at no additional cost to you) for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Our affiliate(s) include the following: Walmart Affiliate Program.

 

 

 

Until next time… Barbie Besties! La-Love Ya!

LaLa XoXo

LaLaLolly’s ToyBox

lalalollystoybox@gmail.com

Bringing La-Love to Barbie doll & dreamhouse collectors and customizers.