In a groundbreaking turn of events, Greta Gerwig’s film “Barbie” has shattered records and set a new milestone for women in the film industry. The candy-colored feminist fable not only dominated the box office but also made history as the first movie directed by a woman to earn a staggering $155 million in its opening weekend across the United States and Canada. This unprecedented achievement surpassed the earnings of every Marvel film released this year and even took the top spot for the biggest opening of the year, beating out major blockbuster contenders like The Super Mario Bros. Movie.

The success of “Barbie” was amplified by a unique social media-driven phenomenon, with moviegoers flocking to theaters to witness the combined magic of “Barbie” and Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer” as “Barbenheimer.” This double-feature extravaganza reinvigorated cinema attendance and resulted in both films raking in a remarkable combined total of over $300 million worldwide.

While “Oppenheimer” managed an impressive $80.5 million in ticket sales, Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” emerged as the clear champion, garnering an astounding $155 million at the North American box office alone. The movie’s global appeal was undeniable, as it went on to earn a massive $377 million worldwide, making it the biggest debut ever for a film directed by a woman.

Internationally, “Barbie” continued its dominance, earning an additional $182 million from 69 territories, contributing to a formidable $337 million global weekend total. Notably, “Oppenheimer” also found success with $93.7 million from 78 territories, even surpassing “Barbie” in India, resulting in an impressive global total of $174.2 million.

The weekend’s triumph was undoubtedly fueled by the support of female audiences, who accounted for 65% of “Barbie” ticket buyers, according to PostTrak. Additionally, 40% of the film’s audience comprised viewers under the age of 25, solidifying its appeal to younger generations. In contrast, “Oppenheimer” found a predominantly male audience, with 62% being male and 63% being over the age of 25.

This momentous box office weekend holds significant cultural importance as it highlights the increasing demand for female-led and directed films in the industry. The success of “Barbie” not only breaks barriers but also serves as a reminder of the importance of diverse storytelling perspectives on the big screen.

IGreta Gerwig’s “Barbie” has indisputably marked a turning point for women in film, with its historic box office success making waves in the industry. As audiences embrace diverse storytelling, it is evident that “Barbie” has set a new standard for inclusivity and representation in Hollywood. As we witness the impact of these films, let us also hope that Hollywood can resolve its internal challenges, ensuring that creativity and talent continue to flourish on and off the screen.

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