Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling will be Barbie's main Barbie and Ken, but we're also going to spend time with countless other versions of both iconic Mattel toys.
One of the most intriguing additions to the cast is WWE Superstar and The Suicide Squad's John Cena as a character we've previously heard described as "Mermaid Ken." Now, we have a first look at the actor "suited up" courtesy of a lengthy behind-the-scenes video.
In that, Cena is showcased in a way that's a lot different from what we're used to, though he's clearly excited about the role. "I was blown away with the concept. I think it’s going to be a movie that all audiences enjoy. I think it’s going to be a movie that evokes conversation. And I think it’s going to be beautifully visually appealing."
"And I think ideas behind it...I think the audience will walk away with like a mixed bag of opinions, which I think is the greatest form of entertainment," Cena continues. "When you don’t have just one universal feel about a project, it’s not that it’s bad, but I think that people can get into a fiery debate about something, that’s good."
Despite being the very definition of a Hollywood tough guy, Cena never shies away from poking fun at himself, so we're sure Mermaid Ken has all the makings of being Barbie's standout character.
While Robbie and Ryan Gosling lead the cast, the epic ensemble also includes Simu Liu, America Ferrera, Ariana Greenblatt, Ncuti Gatwa, Emma Mackey, Alexandra Shipp, Michael Cera, Issa Rae, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Rhea Perlman, Kate McKinnon, Dua Lipa, and Helen Mirren.
Greta Gerwig directed Barbie from a screenplay by Gerwig & Oscar nominee Noah Baumbach (Marriage Story). The movie's producers include Oscar nominee David Heyman, Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner, with Gerwig, Baumbach, Ynon Kreiz, Richard Dickson, Michael Sharp, Josey McNamara, Courtenay Valenti, Toby Emmerich, and Cate Adams serving as executive producers.
"To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place," reads a brief synopsis. "Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken."
Barbie will arrive in theaters on July 21.