Turning the Tide on Patriarchy
Some events in society are not just happy coincidences but reveal patterns and promises too.
Cinematically, the summer of 2023 will be etched in my mind as a season of two movies produced 10,000 miles apart. Separated by continents and cultures but cemented by a common theme.
At its outset, the two films have no apparent similarities, but serendipitously succeed in making bold and blaring statements against patriarchy with humor and aplomb. I am hoping these are harbingers of upcoming changes in both the US and in India.
The productions in their different ways hit the point with satire and humor on beliefs and practices perpetuating patriarchy in the two societies. Though topics of gender discrimination, stereotyping and women's rights are no laughing matter, yet sometimes the points are made and taken better with a laugh.
The movies in question are Greta Gerwig’s Barbie and Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani. While women in the two nations face different issues related to societal expectations, the core for the issues can be traced back to patriarchal values.
Barbie-the Movie brings to life the beloved doll in a delightful and empowering animated adventure embracing the essence of the doll’s charisma while weaving a warm tale that both entertains and makes us question western societal practices involving women.
The speech outlining the challenges women face and the expectations women are held to under patriarchy given by America Ferrera's character, Gloria is iconic and has been widely shared across social media by women of all ages.
"It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful, and so smart, and it kills me that you don’t think you’re good enough," Gloria tells Barbie. "Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we’re always doing it wrong."
In a similar vein, Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani despite a stereotypical Bollywood style opening, soon divulges into questioning the harms and hardships that have been promoted against women in the garb of patriarchy.
The movie entertains from frame one as Ranveer Singh oozes charm despite the over the top costume choices and burlesque representation of the Punjabi community as anti feminist and all heart and no culture.
From domestic violence and doormat like treatment of women in the name of family values to judgements on a woman’s character or curse words that degrade women are vital topics highlighted in the Hindi movie.
Some of the most endearing dialogue exchanges in the movie are between the female protagonist’s mom and Ranvir Singh’s character as her potential son-in-law. She makes him aware of subtle common practices that promote me versus you thinking between men and women that are perpetuated in the society in the garb of respect.
At the heart of Barbie- the movie is the endearing protagonist, Barbie, played by a talented Margot Robbie, who embodies the spirit of the iconic doll. Even Ken, played brilliantly by Ryan Gosling is a supporting star to stereotypical Barbie- depicted not only as fashionable and stylish but also as intelligent, kind, and fiercely independent. This portrayal sends a powerful message-beauty can be varied and intelligence and determination are vital traits to cherish.
The plot follows Barbie's exciting journey as she sets on a quest to save Barbie land. On the way, we are introduced to a myriad group of Barbie inspired females. Each with unique strengths and personalities, promoting the values of friendship and camaraderie while embracing individual differences.
The movie script strikes a balance between lightheartedness and moments of genuine emotional depth. The dialogues are witty and engaging, and the pacing keeps the story moving.
The tour de force of Barbie-the Movie in the potent messaging of empowerment and self-discovery. Barbie's journey of self-acceptance and embracing her strengths is relatable to viewers of all ages. The film doesn't shy away from tackling meaningful themes, subtly imparting valuable life lessons about courage, resilience, and following one's passions.
As a heartwarming and entertaining film, Barbie strikes a balance between entertaining young viewers and resonating with adults. Me and my girls left the theater with smiles on our faces and a lot to talk about- inspired by Barbie's messaging of courage and determination to make a difference in her world.
Rocky aur Rani Ki Love Story is powered by a stellar cast of today’s leading Bollywood actor and actress-Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt. Both deliver beyond the promise of great looks and heartwarming acting. The veteran actors-Shabana Azmi, Jaya Bacchan and Dharmendra are a delight to watch and the supporting cast play their parts well.
The cliche differences in the backgrounds and cultures (Bengali and Punjabi) of the main protagonists in the backdrop of bygone romance of their grandparents could be handled better as in a movie like Vicky Donor. The representations in Rocky and Rani Ki Prem Kahani are loud and kitschy.
While Karan Johar will not get a grade A for subtlety and the sartorial selection for his actors and actresses needs a rethinking, his movie makes strong statements against stark and subtle societal evils perpetrated against women.
Ranveer Singh plays to his strengths as a super romantic leading man and entertains with impeccable comic timing. His growth as a person exposed to new social norms is endearing.
Alia Bhatt is projected as a beautiful heroine in a typical KJo fashion with chiffons et at. But also as an independent successful professional who brings a powerful politician to his knees and questions his anti feminist stance on the evils perpetrated against women in her opening scene.
All in all- Rocky aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani is an entertaining masala movie with a heart of gold with great messaging on the need in Indian society to treat its women better. Not goddesses to be put on a pedestal but as equal partners in word and spirit. In the words of former First Lady Michelle Obama, “The measure of any society is how it treats its women and girls.”
The two summer movies have certainly tried to turn the tide on patriarchy and promote messaging of female equality and liberty in both American and Indian societies with humor and satire.
Shalini Kathuria Narang is a software professional and a freelance journalist. She has reported for national and international newspapers, magazines and news sites. She is also a poet and her poems have been published in several anthologies including Starry Nights: Poetry of Diaspora in Silicon Valley and Pixie Dust and All Things Magical. She is a monthly contributor to Masticadores USA and has been published on Spillwords Press and San Antonio Press. She is originally from New Delhi and currently resides in the Bay Area, California.
