Barbie: Mariposa

Much like the format of the early Barbie films Elina is telling a story to the quirky puffball Bibble (who you either loved right from the start or grew to adore). This allows a narration thru the film and with Bibble’s comments now and then keeps younger ones interested. The story it self is very clever in balancing narrative and product promotions. It has been interwoven in to the story line rather than dropped in with a thud (like in Diamond Castel with the puppies *groan*). The title character Mariposa is every thing you want in a kid’s film hero. She may not be the strongest or most glamorous, however she has an inter strength that allows this ordinary girl to do extraordinary things when it comes to the crunch. When looking deeper (which is not needed to enjoy the film) the inter actions of the characters show and deal with bullying, deceiving, vanity and social/family expectations and pressers. They also show what is right & wrong and how various characters deal with each other. The scenes between Mariposa and the twins Rayna & Rayla reflect these ideas. And by not making Mariposa bitter or resentful of her treatment does not show weakness but an inner strength. That’s makes her a good role model. Parents, sibling and carers need not fear when putting on this film for young ones or for buying it for the 7-14 age bracket. This film is full of beautifully crafted animation and story lines.