On the morning of  January 23, 2024, the 2024 Oscar nominations were announced. This announcement shocked the world with two snubs of Actress Margot Robbie and “Barbie” Director Greta Gerwig. “Barbie” was the top-grossing film of 2023, passing the $1 billion mark worldwide, and is based on the imagined life and times of the iconic Mattel doll. Along with Oppenheimer the two movies were unusual summer blockbuster’s. Seeing that they are polar opposites the two became Barbenheimer.

“Barbie” is a fun light-hearted movie with Ken (Ryan Gosling) and Barbie (Margot Robbie) going on an adventure. Behind all that there is a symbol of connection between women of different generations, passing down their hopes and dreams for a better world for those who come after them. Barbie is a symbol of women’s empowerment, diversity, and the breaking of stereotypes, and Barbie Land is where women rule the world, not men.

In an industry traditionally led by men, Gerwig’s Oscar nomination for Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay) stands out as a remarkable achievement. However, the unexpected snub has sparked disappointment among her admirers. The film industry, often criticized for its gender disparity, has witnessed Gerwig’s significant impact, both as an actress and director.

While awards are just one aspect of a filmmaker’s journey, Gerwig’s 17 wins and 68 Academy Award nominations underscore her consistent recognition and influence in the industry. Despite any individual award outcome, her body of work reflects a commitment to creativity and innovation that resonates with audiences and critics alike. Gerwig continues to be a trailblazer in an evolving landscape that increasingly values inclusivity and diverse voices.

Margot Robbie’s portrayal of the iconic Barbie in the movie was widely praised, cementing her as an excellent choice for the role. However, the surprising omission of a nomination, let alone a win, for Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars has left many perplexed. With 72 Academy Award nominations and 18 wins in her impressive career, Robbie’s absence from the list for her Barbie performance seems like a missed opportunity to recognize her exceptional talent.

Despite the oversight, Robbie’s impact on the film industry goes beyond awards. Her ability to bring depth to diverse characters and contribute to evolving narratives has solidified her status as a standout figure. As fans eagerly anticipate her future projects, it’s clear that Margot Robbie will continue to leave her mark on cinema, irrespective of occasional awards oversights.

In an interview with Time Gosling states “But there is no Ken without Barbie, and there is no Barbie movie without Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie, the two people most responsible for this history-making, globally-celebrated film.”

So why did Ken receive a nomination for “I’m Just Ken” for Best-Supporting Actor and Barbie did not? This goes to show that when Gerwig was trying to make an empowering movie she still gets overshadowed by something not very serious that was not originally supposed to be in the movie.

“Barbie” not receiving an Academy Award for Best Picture has sparked discussions about the criteria for recognizing impactful films. Margot Robbie’s portrayal of the iconic character generated excitement, and the movie’s exploration of feminism and identity added cultural significance. While opinions on award criteria vary, the absence of recognition for “Barbie” in the Best Picture category leaves questions about its potential contribution to the cinematic landscape and broader conversations on diversity in storytelling. The film’s impact, regardless of awards, continues to fuel discussions about the evolving nature of the film industry.