The catchphrase for the record-shattering “Barbie” movie underscores the gulf between the energetic lead, portrayed by Margot Robbie, and her underwhelming, often ignored beau, Ken, played by Ryan Gosling.
The disparity swiftly turned into an internet sensation in the lead-up to the film’s release. However, education advocate Malala Yousafzai might have the most humorous spin on it.
On Sunday, Yousafzai shared a photo on Instagram featuring her and her husband, Asser Malik, inside a Barbie box.
“Here’s a Barbie with a Nobel Prize,” read her caption, appending, “and he’s simply Ken.”
In 2014, Yousafzai made history as the youngest Nobel Peace Prize recipient, jointly awarded with Kailash Satyarthi, in recognition of their work championing children’s rights.
Yousafzai shared her thoughts on Greta Gerwig’s film in her Instagram post, a movie that set a new record for the biggest opening weekend in 2023 and the most significant debut by a female director. She said, “We thoroughly enjoyed the movie; it was hilarious and insightful.”
Adding a disclaimer to her initial statement, she remarked, “I hope my caption doesn’t offend all the Kens as much as the film’s Ken did.”
Her husband took the jibe in stride, humorously responding: “I’m Kenough.”
The post garnered over half a million likes and received thousands of comments, with many social media users commending the caption.
Lilly Singh, the YouTube celebrity, commented, “This caption takes the cake.” Another user said, “This is the BEST Barbie caption I’ve encountered yet.”
In 2020, Yousafzai completed her Philosophy, Politics, and Economics degree from Oxford University. She and Malik tied the knot the following year.
He melodically voices his frustration: “Regardless of my efforts, I always come in second.”
“I’m merely Ken. Elsewhere, I’d be a solid 10. Is it my fate to endure a life of blonde delicacy?” he continues.
The song turns positive later, with Ken affirming: “I’m just Ken, and that’s enough. I’m great at what I do. So, hey, take notice.”
The “Barbie” movie, while sparking humour and light-hearted conversations, has also led to more profound reflections on individual worth and roles in society, and no one encapsulates this better than Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai. A powerful advocate for girls’ education, her humorous take not only celebrates her achievements but also underscores the essence of the film: that everyone is more than just a label. As audiences continue to enjoy the record-breaking movie, Yousafzai’s unique perspective brings a thoughtful layer to the discussion, reminding us all that we are, indeed, ‘enough.’
