Bloomberg journalist Kelly Gilblom discusses Mattel's $100 million Barbie movie, its impact on the company's brand, and the goal of reclaiming the No.1 spot in the global toymaker market. The podcast explores the decline and resurgence of Barbie, the need for new accessories to match the new Barbie body types, and the decision-making process behind creating the movie. It also delves into the unconventional script that humorously targets Mattel executives, the complexities of the Barbie movie, including the introduction of a diverse cast, and Barbie's journey into the real world and her existential crisis.
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Quick takeaways
The Barbie movie aims to reimagine Barbie and connect with a new generation of young girls while also appealing to their loyal fanbase, potentially leading to a franchise and opening doors for other Mattel toys to be turned into movies.
Mattel has worked to reinvent Barbie by expanding the doll's body types, skin tones, and hair colors, leading to a revival in sales and boosting accessory sales as well, requiring customers to buy new clothes and accessories that fit the diverse Barbies.
Deep dives
Barbie's Transformation and the Importance of the Movie
The Barbie movie is a significant moment for Mattel, as Barbie is their biggest brand and a major source of revenue. The movie aims to reimagine Barbie and connect with a new generation of young girls as well as please their loyal fanbase. Mattel has invested heavily in marketing and merchandise, targeting both children and adults. The movie's success could lead to a franchise and open doors for other Mattel toys to be turned into movies, creating new revenue streams for the company.
Reinventing Barbie: From Conventional to Diverse
Mattel has worked to reinvent Barbie by expanding the doll's body types, skin tones, and hair colors to appeal to a broader audience. They have also introduced Barbies with physical abilities like wheelchairs and hearing aids. These changes have led to a revival in Barbie sales, although they have not yet reached their peak. The new body types have boosted accessory sales as well, requiring customers to buy new clothes and accessories that fit the diverse Barbies.
Challenges and Competition for Barbie
Over the years, Barbie has faced challenges from competitors such as the Bratz dolls and Disney Princesses, which highlighted the need for Barbie to stay relevant. Mattel struggled with mismanagement and failed attempts to replicate the success of their rivals. However, they have learned from past mistakes and are now focused on creating cultural moments with the Barbie movie. This strategy involves getting the right talent and making great content that sparks conversations and resonates with audiences.
The High Stakes and Potential of the Barbie Movie
The Barbie movie is a high-stakes venture for Mattel. The success of the movie can redefine Barbie's image and increase sales. Mattel's goal is to create a cultural moment that reignites America's love for Barbie and transforms her into a role model for young girls. The marketing efforts have been extensive, with numerous merchandise partnerships, Airbnb Barbie Dream House, and real-world Barbie exhibits. The movie's impact could extend beyond box office returns, with potential franchise opportunities and the development of other Mattel toy-based films.
We're taking a break for the holidays, so here's an episode you might have missed.
She’s been an astronaut, a scientist and the president of the United States. Now Barbie is a movie star. Bloomberg’s Kelly Gilblom joins this episode to talk about Mattel’s bet that the $100 million Barbie movie debuting July 21 — and the launch of the company’s entertainment division — will revive its biggest brand, reel in new fans and help it reclaim the No. 1 spot of global toymaker.
This episode was produced by: Supervising Producer: Vicki Vergolina, Senior Producer: Kathryn Fink, Producers: Mo Barrow, Michael Falero Sound Design/Engineer: Raphael Amsili.