“Barbie” blockbuster hits Japanese theatres amid “Barbenheimer” backlash.“Barbie” blockbuster hits Japanese theatres amid “Barbenheimer” backlash.

“Barbie” made its much-anticipated debut in Japanese theatres, bringing both excitement and unexpected controversy.

The “Barbenheimer” memes led to an apology from Warner Bros.

“Barbie” has catapulted beyond the $1 billion mark in global box office earnings since its premiere on July 21.

The film’s whimsical narrative, coupled with its impeccable timing, resonated with audiences around the world.

A #NoBarbenheimer hashtag trended online, prompting Warner's Japan division to issue a rare public criticism of its parent company.

The #Barbenheimer hashtag on social media has  collected about 22,600 signatures to date.