
In an unprecedented moment in cinematic history, Barbie and Oppenheimer—two vastly different films—joined forces at the box office to create the phenomenon now known as “Barbenheimer.” Released simultaneously on July 21, 2023, the films defied industry expectations, not only succeeding individually but elevating each other in the process. Margot Robbie, producer and star of Barbie, and Cillian Murphy, the lead in Oppenheimer, sat down for Variety’s Actors on Actors to discuss their blockbuster successes, creative processes, and the impact of their films.
The Origins of Two Cinematic Giants

On the surface, Barbie and Oppenheimer couldn’t be more different. Directed by Greta Gerwig, Barbie tells the story of a beloved doll navigating an existential crisis, while Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer chronicles the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer and the invention of the atomic bomb. Yet both films captivated audiences through bold storytelling and inventive direction.
Robbie reflects on Barbie’s journey:
“90% of me was certain it would be a massive hit, but 10% feared it could go terribly wrong. Greta Gerwig was the linchpin—it had to be her. Without her, it could have been an absolute disaster.”
Murphy echoed this sense of uncertainty about Oppenheimer:
“None of us anticipated the global reception. Chris Nolan was determined to release it as a summer tentpole, and that instinct paid off.”
“Barbenheimer” Takes the World by Storm

Despite initial concerns about releasing their films on the same day, Robbie and Murphy agree that the pairing was serendipitous. Robbie shared a playful anecdote:
“One of your producers called me suggesting we move our release date. I said, ‘If you’re scared, you move yours.’ Luckily, the world agreed it was a perfect double feature.”
The cultural impact of “Barbenheimer” was palpable. Fans embraced the films with creative fervor, from memes to themed double-feature outings. Both stars marveled at the organic nature of this enthusiasm.
Murphy remarked:
“Audiences don’t like being told what to do. They generated the interest themselves, and it resonated because both movies were genuinely good.”
Robbie added:
“People were drawn to the directors—Chris Nolan and Greta Gerwig are visionaries. It was exciting to see audiences celebrate that.”
Behind the Scenes: Crafting Iconic Characters

For Murphy, portraying J. Robert Oppenheimer came with significant challenges.
“Chris wrote the script in the first person, which was a first for me. It made the storytelling deeply subjective and added to the weight of the role.”
Robbie faced her own unique challenges bringing Barbie to life.
“All my usual tools—acting coaches, movement exercises—didn’t apply. Greta helped me conceptualize Barbie as someone without introspection, like a woman who doesn’t have an internal monologue. That was a breakthrough.”
Both actors also acknowledged the physicality of their characters. Murphy drew inspiration from Oppenheimer’s slight frame and iconic stance, while Robbie leaned into Barbie’s vibrant visual aesthetic, especially the signature pink costumes.
Looking Back and Ahead
As the conversation shifted to their legacies, Robbie gushed over Murphy’s work in Peaky Blinders:
“There are two kinds of people—those obsessed with Peaky Blinders and those who haven’t seen it. Please, tell me there’s a spinoff movie!”
Murphy teased the possibility:
“I’m open to it. If there’s more story to tell, I’d consider it.”
Reflecting on the global impact of “Barbenheimer,” both stars expressed gratitude for being part of a cultural moment that reignited enthusiasm for cinema. Murphy noted:
“This wasn’t orchestrated—it happened because both movies connected with audiences in a way no one could have predicted.”
Robbie agreed:
“You can’t force this kind of magic. It’s a testament to great storytelling and the joy of shared experiences.”