Amidst controversy surrounding a map depicted in the upcoming "Barbie" film, Warner Bros. has refuted allegations that it supports China's disputed claims in the South China Sea. The studio clarified that the lines on the cartoonish map represent Barbie's journey from "Barbie Land" to the "real world," not a political statement.
The controversy erupted after trailers showed a brief glimpse of the map, prompting officials in Vietnam to ban the film's release. Some U.S. lawmakers also expressed concern, with Senator Ted Cruz suggesting the film was "made in China." However, Warner Bros. maintains the map is a childlike drawing with no geopolitical intentions.
The studio emphasized that the lines on the map, which resemble China's nine-dash line, are simply "journey lines" illustrating Barbie's travels. Director Greta Gerwig reportedly echoed this explanation, emphasizing the film's focus on Barbie's personal growth. This clarification comes after the Vietnamese government pulled the movie from theaters due to the perceived endorsement of Chinese territorial claims.
Philippine Senator Francis Tolentino also voiced concerns, suggesting the film be banned in the Philippines if the map indeed depicts the nine-dash line. Despite these criticisms, Warner Bros. stands by its explanation, asserting the map is a harmless element of the film's narrative.
