How do you create a feature film based on a toy? Three different live-action G.I. Joe films would suggest it’s harder than you think. And yet, in the hands of Greta Gerwig, we get something engaging and masterful with Barbie.

In the film, we meet stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie), who is living her dream life in Barbieland. She’s surrounded by all her fellow friends and Barbies, and she’s surrounded by a number of Kens, including Beach Ken (Ryan Gosling), who is completely smitten. But in the midst of her dream life of parties and dancing, Barbie starts having some strange thoughts.

Soon, her daily life goes off the rails. She turns to the wise sage—Weird Barbie (Kate McKinnon)—who suggests she needs to venture out into the real world to find out what is troubling the one playing with Barbie. So, despite hesitation, Barbie and Ken head to the real world.

It isn’t what they expected. The world isn’t what Barbie hoped, while Ken gets wild ideas about how to improve his situation, while Barbie connects with the head of Mattel (Will Farrell) and her biggest fan, Gloria (America Ferrera). Gloria, in particular, gives Barbie the nudge she needs to become the woman she wants to be.

It was hard to know what to expect from a film like this. It’s famous IP but how does it work as a feature film? In the hands of Gerwig and co-writer Noah Baumbach, we get something that beautifully explores the toy for what it is but more importantly considers culture, the role of women and what it means to be human. That’s a tall order for any movie but Gerwig the director pulls it off beautifully.

The look for this film is stunning. The world built for Barbieland is completely engaging and feels like a dream. The costumes pop and the way the worlds diverge is perfect. From the moment you begin, the look pulls you in and leaves you hooked. So, too, does the script. There is humor, pathos and some incredible observations. From the jump it crackles and sets the tone for the film.

But it’s not just the projection that pulls you in, it’s the performances. Robbie is perfect in the lead role, bringing humor, grace and depth of emotion. Gosling is an idea screen partner, bringing some interesting depths to Ken. He also provides a lot of the humor. Most of the performances are great. I was moved by Ferrera and delighted by McKinnon. One of the most fun performances comes from Michael Cera as Allan, who provides comedy throughout the production.

Barbie is a beautifully crafted film that’s full of humor and heart. It’s one of the best films of the year and should be a huge hit this summer.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.