These two films could be the movie event of the year. A guide to ‘Barbenheimer’ in Macon
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One of the biggest movie events of the year is set for Friday when “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer,” two of the most anticipated films of 2023, both open at theaters across the country.
The two films will likely attract sizable crowds and each have dedicated followings that often overlap, leading to the popular online phenomenon now dubbed “Barbenheimer” — seeing both films the day they open, one after the other, with little time between.
While the idea gained momentum partially because of the comical contrast between the movies (one can’t imagine many other circumstances where Ken dolls would be mentioned in the same sentence as atom bombs), it’s also become popular because both movies are highly anticipated blockbusters by well-known directors.
“Oppenheimer” offers a look into the life of the titular Manhattan Project figurehead as he creates the atomic bomb. It is critically-acclaimed director Christopher Nolan’s first film since 2020 and features a star-studded cast including Cillian Murphy as J. Robert Oppenheimer along with Florence Pugh, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr. and Emily Blunt, among others.
“Barbie” is the latest project from Greta Gerwig, the renowned director behind films like “Lady Bird,” “Little Women” and “Frances Ha.” Margot Robbie stars as Barbie with Ryan Gosling as Ken to pair with performances from Will Ferrell, Michael Cera and Kate McKinnon in what could be another feminist adventure from Gerwig.
While the two films seemingly have little in common, they apparently share one key thing – an audience. From T-shirts featuring both movies to hybrid posters, the “Barbenheimer” phenomenon has swept the nation, with even Nolan himself enjoying it.
“Yes of course! Both on the same day,” said Savannah Lackey, a recent Mercer grad, in response to a social media post asking who would view both movies. “Definitely Oppenheimer first and then Barbie to lighten the mood.”
“Yes, if possible,” said James Elliot in response to the post. “From the articles I’ve read, tickets are getting snatched up.”
While some people who answered the social media post did not plan on seeing both movies back-to-back, many at least planned on seeing one of the two movies at the theater.
“I’m stuck in a remote part of Poland and will in fact be making the trek to the nearest IMAX theater to see Oppenheimer,” said Macon native Chandler Pipkins in response to the social media post.
Many dedicated fans are even dressing up with friends, particularly in the case of “Barbie.”
“I’m going all out: roller skates, pink body glitter, etc.,” said Amelia Rivers.
She also said a sibling planned to wear a suit to the premiere.
“Barbenheimer” plans in Macon
With many seeing both films and even more planning to watch at least one, it looks to be a busy weekend for movie theaters everywhere. Amstar 16, Macon’s local theater on Zebulon Road, has special plans for the blockbuster opening.
“We’re selling Barbie beach balls and pillows for the movie,” said Holly Wood, Amstar’s general manager Monday. “We might have other specials but we haven’t planned those yet.”
Wood said the movies should perform well, but that they “don’t know who will win” the ticket duel just yet. Amstar’s 7:10 showing of Barbie for Friday has already sold 72% of its tickets online, according to their tracking system, but Oppenheimer tickets are performing better for Saturday.
Wood mentioned that the opening night might compare to when Disney’s Little Mermaid remake premiered earlier this year, mentioning that the live-action film was the busiest the theater had been since the COVID-19 pandemic. As far as crowds go, the theater made some minor adjustments recently.
“We’ve moved the ticket takers from the front of the lobby to the hallway that leads to the theaters so there’s more room in the lobby,” Wood said. Otherwise it will be a standard busy weekend that Amstar hopes to deal with in smooth fashion.
The theater has scheduled several showings of both movies for Friday and Saturday of this week. Here’s a list of showtimes in case you find yourself wanting in on the “Barbenheimer” craze:
Friday
Barbie:
11:15 a.m.
2 p.m.
4:45 p.m.
7:10 p.m.
9:55 p.m.
Oppenheimer (IMAX):
Noon
4 p.m.
8 p.m.
Oppenheimer (Standard):
11 a.m.
3 p.m.
7 p.m.
Saturday
Barbie:
11:15 a.m.
2 p.m.
4:45 p.m.
7:15 p.m.
10 p.m.
Oppenheimer (IMAX)
Noon
4 p.m.
8 p.m.
Oppenheimer (Standard)
11 a.m.
3 p.m.
7 p.m.
