Part 3/13:
A significant personal anecdote follows—the author's choice to see Barbie alone, despite initial reluctance. This act, symbolizing a commitment to understanding the cultural moment, sets the tone for a deeper analysis. He claims a somewhat ironic position, making fun of his own bravery in venturing into the cinema about a culturally controversial figure, reflecting a desire to interpret what these works reveal about the collective unconscious.
Critiquing Cultural Critics and Their Limitations
The narrative then examines two prominent conservative voices—Ben Shapiro and Michael Knowles—and their contrasting opinions on Barbie. The author suggests that both are limited: Shapiro’s critique tends to be overly negative, while Knowles’s praise may overlook some flaws.