Unleash your inner scream queen and buckle up for a spine-tingling adventure where horror gets a fabulously feminine makeover! As audiences everywhere gear up for the release of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie, we’ve conjured up a killer list of 10 ‘Barbiecore’ horror movies that will have you shrieking with delight.
We’ve had Barbie on the brain for a while, just last week we released an article highlighting the best pink hued horror movies. (While there will be some crossover on the two lists, I can assure you, ‘Barbiecore horror’ and ‘Pink horror’ are not one-in-the-same.) Our list of Barbiecore horror movies is dripping with girly glamour and bursting with major girlboss energy, blending the spookiness of horror with the charm, allure, and unapologetic strength of femininity. So, slip into your most bewitching pink ensemble, get Ken to make you some popcorn, and pinky swear to scream your lungs out.
Carrie (1976)
Carrie White, a shy and introverted high school student with telekinetic powers, becomes the target of cruel classmates and her religiously fanatic mother. As the pressures and humiliations build up, Carrie’s abilities reach a boiling point, leading to a cataclysmic prom night that unleashes her pent-up fury. This classic horror film explores themes of bullying, repression, and the destructive power of unleashed feminine rage. Plus, she wears a pretty pink prom dress. ..Until it isn’t pretty anymore. 🙁
The Stepford Wives (1975)
Joanna, a modern, undomesticated housewife, discovers the unsettling truth about Stepford’s flawlessly styled women. This film perfectly captures the allure of domestic perfection and the horrors lurking beneath the surface; delving into themes of identity, conformity, and the suppression of female autonomy. Plus it’s got frilly hats! Lots of frilly hats!
Don’t Worry Darling (2022)
Set in the 1950s, Alice and Jack live in the seemingly perfect community of Victory, an experimental company town that houses the men working on a mysterious project. While the husbands labor away, the wives enjoy a life of luxury and pleasure. However, as cracks begin to appear in the façade of their idyllic existence, Alice grows suspicious and starts questioning the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface. This film delves into themes of conformity, the illusion of perfection, and the unraveling of a seemingly flawless society.
HOT AT THE SHOP:
The Stepford Wives (2004)
A modern take on the 70s hit, the 2004 version features Nicole Kidman as Joanna, showcasing her fierce determination to uncover the dark secret behind Stepford’s picture-perfect housewives. Kidman’s elegance adds a touch of glamour to the undeniably ‘Barbiecore’ atmosphere, highlighting the collision of appearances and the hidden malevolence that lurks under Stepford’s perfectly manicured lawns. Plus, you totally can’t prove to me these Stepford-ized women can bend at the elbow.
Jennifer’s Body (2009)
In this darkly comedic horror film, Jennifer, played by Megan Fox, radiates both girly allure and dangerous power as a demon-possessed man-eater. The movie explores female relationships, sexuality, and the objectification of women, challenging traditional horror tropes and empowering the female gaze. All with a dab of sparkly pink lipgloss.
The Love Witch (2016)
Elaine, the love witch herself, embraces her feminine wiles and seductive charm to ensnare men with her love spells. With its visually stunning retro-inspired fashion and captivating aesthetics, this film celebrates the mystique, power, and manipulative aspects of femininity. I don’t think there was ever a love witch Barbie, but honestly? Mistake.
Promising Young Woman (2020)
Cassie, played by Carey Mulligan, exhibits a fierce determination and an impeccably styled wardrobe as she seeks revenge for past trauma. Her carefully crafted appearance serves as a facade to lure and challenge the toxic males in her life, highlighting the strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity. Boy, bye.
Black Swan (2010)
Nina, a ballerina on the edge of sanity, embraces the delicate grace and discipline of ballet while descending into darkness. Natalie Portman’s captivating performance beautifully captures the duality of femininity and obsession, exploring themes of perfectionism, sacrifice, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. Plus, you totally need at least one Ballerina Barbie in your collection.
The Lure (2015)
Who didn’t have a mermaid Barbie doll? Enter Horror’s take, The Lure, a Polish horror musical that combines fantasy, music, and feminine allure. Set in a cabaret club, this film follows two mermaid sisters as they navigate love, temptation, and the haunting beauty of their monstrous nature. With mesmerizing visuals, toe-tapping musical numbers, and a celebration of feminine power, The Lure is a twisted fairy tale that embraces the girly and unconventional side of horror.
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
In A Nightmare on Elm Street, teenage Nancy Thompson fearlessly confronts dream demon Freddy Krueger, all while sporting a pink sweater vest and a dazzling perm. Her resourcefulness, intelligence, and resilience make her a true ‘Barbiecore’ heroine, defying the stereotype of a helpless damsel in distress and becoming an embodiment of female strength. Plus, her useless boyfriend Glen (Johnny Depp) is a total Ken.
Indulge your love for all things Barbiecore with these 10 horror movies that effortlessly blend girly aesthetics with spine-chilling terror. These films embrace the allure, strength, and transformative power of femininity, challenging gender norms and societal expectations. And, looking fabulous while doing it.
From the fashion choices and iconic hairstyles to the strong female characters and their battles against evil, these films celebrate the multifaceted nature of women and their ability to thrive in the face of darkness. So, get ready to scream, swoon, and embrace your inner girlboss with these wickedly entertaining horror gems!
Do you have more girly, Barbiecore horrors to add to this list? Start a conversation in the Nightmare on Film Street discord! We love recommendations!
