Is Poor Things a Better Feminist Film than Barbie? These Experts Think So...

The difference between Barbie and Poor Things can in part be discerned through their respective beginnings and endings: Gerwig’s film concludes with Barbie’s vaginal implant whilst Lanthimos’ film begins with its heroine’s brain transplant. This contrast underscores each film’s focus: while Barbie hones in on the cosmetic world of sexy sculpted bodies, Poor Things explores the cerebral dimension of both sexuality and identity. In this way, Poor Things provides a far more complex and intelligent meditation upon women’s liberation, examining both the sensual and psychological dimension of our minds and bodies.