Titanic

Commemorating the 10th anniversary of the James Cameron's film Titanic, I ordered this Titanic Barbie online relying on the official photos released by Mattel. This Barbie was disappointing as it was poorly designed and made. Titanic was the most expensive film produced at the time (reported to be around US$200 million), and no expense was spared on the sets, props and costumes (Deborah Lynn Scott won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design).

This is a dismal replica of the gown that Rose DeWitt Bukater wore when she was contemplating jumping off the boat (actually referred to as the" Jump" dress). This Barbie wears a red silky gown with a black netting on top. She has red hair and wears green beaded earrings and red ankle length shoes. I note that this Barbie had a relatively low retail price, but Mattel had the opportunity to produce a finer quality doll with a more detailed dress (check out the beading on the Eliza Dolittle Embassy Ball Barbie). Even if the price of this Barbie was set higher, I'm sure collectors would have paid more for quality.

Release date: 1 June 2007
Label: Pink
Mattel price: US$19.95
Ebay price as at April 2012: US$30 - US$50