Simu Liu Teases Wild Dance Scenes In Margot Robbie's Barbie Movie

Shang-Chi's Simu Liu is teasing a 'wild' and 'incredibly unique' dance sequence in the upcoming live-action Barbie movie, starring Margot Robbie.

Simu Liu Teases Wild Dance Scenes In Margot Robbie's Barbie Movie

The Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie will include a “wild” dance scene, according to actor Simu Liu. Set for a 2023 release, Barbie will be the Mattel doll’s first live-action portrayal following years of animated features. Robbie stars as the real-life version of the iconic blonde, while Ryan Gosling plays her partner, Ken. Other big names in the cast include Will Ferrell, Kate McKinnon, America Ferrera, Michael Cera, and Liu.

Liu, of course, is best known for his breakout role as the titular character in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, the first Asian-led film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Outside the MCU, Liu has become a bit of an internet sensation, thanks to his past gig as a stock photo model, his quippy sense of humor, and sometimes-too-honest posts on social media. His growing notoriety has opened up more opportunities for big projects, and Liu appears to have been given top billing for Barbie. His specific role is not yet known, as are much of the film’s details aside from the first-look image released in April.

Liu teased a few details about Barbie in a recent interview with GQ — notably, an “incredibly unique” dance sequence. The movie isn’t a musical, but according to Liu, the dance scene is elaborate enough to require rehearsal. In fact, Liu said his dance skills were what ultimately convinced director Greta Gerwig to bring him aboard the project. He recalled turning in an audition tape, then meeting with Gerwig in person, during which he mentioned his past involvement in a competitive hip-hop dance team during college. Liu said:

“Greta was talking about how much she loved watching men dance, because it’s such an expression of artistry you’re not used to seeing from typical men … [Upon discovering Liu’s dance background] She audibly guffawed, she giggle-screamed — and then I got the part.”

A dance number isn’t out of character for Barbie, as she’s danced countless times in her animated films. But considering the live-action Barbie isn’t a musical, the inclusion of a dance scene certainly adds to the intrigue. It’ll be interesting to see not just the context of the dance sequence but who else in the cast may be involved.

While not much else is known about the film, the initial details surrounding Barbie are rather promising. The first-look image alone is spot-on, and Liu has teased that the Barbie script — penned by Gerwig and Marriage Story‘s Noah Baumbach — is one of the best he’s ever read. With a solid supporting cast and versatile actress like Robbie taking on the lead role, Barbie appears to have all the ingredients for what could be a surprisingly good comedy and tribute to the classic doll.