Cast
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Kelly Sheridan
as Lumina (voice)
Katie Crown
as Kuda (voice)
Mark Oliver
as King Nereus (voice)
Rebecca Shoichet
as Queen Lorelei (voice)
Trish Pattendon
as Scylla (voice)
John Novak
as Caligo (voice)
Simon Hill
as Fergis (voice)
Peter New
as Murray (voice)
Kathleen Barr
as Madame Ruckus (voice)
Patrick Gilmore
as Garth (voice)
Louis Chirillo
as Wormwood (voice)
James Higuchi
as Spike (voice)
MacKenzie Porter
as Cora (voice)
Nicki Burke
as Sandrine (voice)
Tabitha St. Germain
as Purple Mer-Teen (voice)
Crew
Director
- Ezekiel Norton
Writer
- Steve Granat
- Cydne Clark
Producer
- Shawn McCorkindale
- Shelley Tabbut
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Barbie: The Pearl Princess represents a fascinating example of Family/Animation cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ezekiel Norton brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Barbie: The Pearl Princess took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 73 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Barbie: The Pearl Princess shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike My Little Pony: The Runaway Rainbow, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Barbie: The Pearl Princess subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Lu Over the Wall and Transformers: Zone explore similar territory, Barbie: The Pearl Princess stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 15, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 13m
