Deep Dive: Black Barbie (2023)
Film Lens
Black Barbie: A Documentary is a 2023 film that focuses on the creation of the first Black Barbie doll in 1980. Directed, written, and produced by Lagueria Davis, the film features archival footage, graphics, and interviews with key figures, including three Black women from Mattel who played significant roles in the doll's development. The documentary premiered at the 2023 South by Southwest film festival and was later released on Netflix on June 19, 2024.
The film addresses the 20-year gap before a Black Barbie doll appeared alongside white dolls on store shelves. It emphasizes the efforts of women who fought for representation in toys, showcasing their stories and contributions to the toy industry. Kitty Black Perkins, the designer of the first Black Barbie, and Bill Greening, who designed anniversary editions, are featured prominently in the film.
Why Watch
- •Meet Kitty Black Perkins, the first Black Barbie designer.
- •Find out how women at Mattel changed the toy industry.
- •See archival footage that brings history to life.
Did You Know
•The first Black Barbie doll was created in 1980.
•The film premiered at the 2023 South by Southwest film festival.
•96% of 27 critics' reviews on Rotten Tomatoes are positive.
•The film has a runtime of 95 minutes.
Perfect For
Toy industry historyRepresentation in mediaBarbie collectors