Barbie: The Pearl Princess, directed by Zeke Norton, is a delightful animated film from 2014 that continues the much-loved Barbie series. This time, we meet Lumina, a mermaid with the unique gift of controlling pearls. While it’s mainly made for kids, especially those who adore Barbie, the movie takes us on a vibrant underwater adventure that’s all about friendship, finding yourself, and a bit of magic.
Cast
- Kelly Sheridan as Lumina
- Katie Crown as Kuda
- Mark Oliver as General Kaligo
Plot
The story follows Lumina, a mermaid who dreams of becoming a princess. Raised by her aunt in a secluded undersea home, Lumina discovers she has the power to control pearls. When her aunt is summoned to a royal ball, Lumina and her best friend, a pink seahorse named Kuda, set off to a journey to the royal city. Once there, Lumina’s talent as a stylist gets her noticed, and she soon finds herself at the center of a plot that could change the kingdom’s future. Along the way, Lumina learns about her true identity and the importance of believing in oneself.
Trailer
Movie Reviews By Audience
The reception of Barbie: The Pearl Princess has been mixed. According to ‘Common Sense Media’ , parents have criticized the movie for its shallow plot and stereotypical messages, with one parent noting that it felt like a 90 minute Barbie ad. Others mentioned that it didn’t stand out in terms of being either educational or super entertaining compared to other Barbie movies.
On the flip side, some found it quite charming. A blog called ‘Of Fact and Fantasy’ described it as totally cute, appreciating its charm even if it wasn’t groundbreaking. Over at ‘Mom Does Reviews’, a parent shared that their child enjoyed the movie, especially the fashion and hairstyles that Lumina created.
Behind the Scenes
The production of Barbie: The Pearl Princess involved a talented team of animators and voice actors. Kelly Sheridan, a veteran in voicing Barbie, brought Lumina to life with her engaging performance. The film’s animation, dominated by vibrant pinks and purples, was designed to appeal to its target audience of young girls. The creative team aimed to blend elements of popular fairy tales, drawing inspiration from stories like Rapunzel and The Little Mermaid.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Barbie: The Pearl Princess?
The main theme revolves around self-discovery and the importance of believing in oneself. Lumina’s journey is about finding her true identity and embracing her unique abilities.
Is Barbie: The Pearl Princess suitable for all ages?
The movie is rated NR (Not Rated) but is generally considered suitable for children aged 5 and up. However, some parents have expressed concerns about the stereotypical messages related to beauty and fashion.
How does Barbie: The Pearl Princess compare to other Barbie movies?
While it shares common elements with other Barbie films, such as themes of magic and friendship, some reviewers feel it lacks the compelling storyline and educational value found in other installments like Barbie Mariposa & the Fairy Princess or Barbie in the Pink Shoes.
Where can I watch Barbie: The Pearl Princess?
The movie is available on DVD and various streaming platforms. Check your local listings for availability.
