Detox. No, there is no global shortage of pink paint because of the Barbie movie.

Where does the intox come from?

On the occasion of the upcoming release of the feature film “Barbie” by Greta Gerwig, scheduled for July 2023, several press titles highlighted a surprising anecdote to say the least: the film would have “led to a shortage of pink paint in the world ! » thus indicate the MCE TV site, partner of Ouest Franceor First. On his side, the Journal of Montreal writes: “Shortage of pink paint: the Barbie movie to blame for grabbing the last drops”.

Why is this wrong?

Or at least, much more nuanced than that. In fact, the film did participate in creating a shortage… but a very specific one: that of the fluorescent pink color from the Rosco brand, which specializes in coloring film sets. Basically, the info is taken from an interview given by the production designer of the film, Sarah Greenwood, to Architectural Digest magazine. Where she indicates that the construction of the set “caused an international hunt for the fluorescent tint of Rosco paint”. And to add “while laughing” – specifies the article – that “the world has run out of pink”. A joke that does not necessarily prove that the shortage has spread on a global scale.

What a spokesperson for the Rosco brand confirms to Désintox: “The film caused a shortage at Rosco – they used up all our stock. But I can’t say if it has impacted other companies. »

In addition, she specifies that the requests from the film crew came at a time when a shortage was already being felt, in particular because of the Covid: “The sets were designed and built during a tense period for the television channels. supply. But we provided everything we could; they took everything. And to conclude: “I’m happy to announce that neon pink is back in stock for anyone who wants to create their own Barbie house!” A little exaggerated info, but a good publicity stunt for the film.