Rose-tinted glasses: New Barbie movie features Czech-made glassware

One of the most anticipated movies of the summer, Barbie will bring an explosion of pink to Czech screens once it premieres in the country on July 20. Additionally, keen-eyed cinemagoers will likely feel a touch of pride after spotting one of the most sought-after Czech exports shining in the plastic Barbie Land: Czech glassware.

The classy glasses and jugs were made by the Klimchi company, which describes itself as "a collective of Czech designers and glassmakers who like to create exceptional glass products for exceptional experiences." This sounds like a match made in Hollywood heaven, given that the Barbie movie lures viewers with the promise of an unforgettable film: "If you love Barbie, this movie is for you. If you hate Barbie, this movie is for you."

Additionally, Klimchi only uses "noble Czech glass" to ensure the top quality of its products, which are handmade in the town of Kamenický Šenov, in the so-called Crystal Valley. Their glassware already earned recognition in Czechia for its original and elegant designs, being featured in magazines ranging from the Czech editions of Forbes, Elle Decoration, and Marie Claire, to the international editions of GQ, Tatler, and House & Garden.

The company’s founder Lukáš Klimčák said that the Klimchi glassware featured in Barbie are hand-blown jugs from the Rosaline Hobnail edition, in a low and a tall version. While the collection boasts glassware in numerous shades, ranging from clear to yellow, blue, and green, those making big-screen appearances are pink, in line with the Barbie theme. "I'm absolutely thrilled that our pink jugs will make their big movie debut in the Barbie movie," Klimčák said.

He added that the Hobnail jug was "the first and most successful product from Klimchi," after decades of being produced in his family’s glass factory. "We strive to elevate the reputation of Czech glass internationally, and this serves as another remarkable addition to our journey." Klimčák said, concluding that it was "a huge honor" to have Klimchi products associated with the project.

Czech glassware is no stranger to the big screen. The Netflix hit "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery," released last year, featured monumental crystal sculptures made in the Czech Republic made by the Pačinek Glass factory located in Kunratice. 

As for Barbie, the Greta Gerwig-directed film has so far been receiving glowing reviews for a "funny and smart" satire that sees the main character embark on a journey of self-discovery as she leaves Barbie Land for the Real World. Its stars Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, who play the iconic doll and her love interest Ken, also earned praise for offering viewers "pure entertainment."