❗Let's close the gap: We still need your help to raise $40,000 by April 1. Donate now

How NYT critic Morris looks at movie watching

Mar 4, 2024
Cooper, Giamatti or Murphy? Morris weighs in on the range of talent up for Oscars and the "range of experiences" he seeks as a moviegoer.
Which film will win best picture honors at this year's Academy Awards? "It's 'Oppenheimer' city, baby," says Wesley Morris.
Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for The New York Times

In the “girl” era, are women really splurging for fun?

Feb 29, 2024
Economic disadvantages like the wealth gap persist, despite talk of the “she-conomy."
Since the pandemic began, single women and other lower-wealth groups saw larger percentage gains in their wealth than their higher-wealth counterparts. Hernández Kent said that’s primarily because it’s easier to double a small amount of money.
Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Beyoncé and Swift fans turn to fast fashion for concert glam attire

Sep 1, 2023
Cheap, sometimes single-use apparel that fill malls and online shops that may also swiftly end up in landfills. But there may be a surge in recycling those outfits too.
Attendees at events of the summer like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, pictured here, often purchased a specific outfit to be worn just to the concert.
John Shearer/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Barbie's Dreamhouse paints a picture of America's housing history

Jun 29, 2023
From the bachelorette pad of the 1960s to today's pink mansion, the Dreamhouse's evolution shows the politics and trends of American life.
For more than 60 years, Barbie Dreamhouses have reflected style trends and aspirational homeownership.
Bethany Clarke/Getty Images

When children talk to toys, some are talking back

Oct 29, 2015
Smart technologies are increasingly incorporated into toys, raising some concerns.

Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Barbie?

Feb 12, 2014
What could be more fitting for Sports Illustrated's annual swimsuit issue than Barbie, in her first swimsuit from 1959?

Mattel says 'Toy Feliz' this holiday season

Nov 1, 2013
Could Mattel's new Spanish-language toy campaign spur big sales this holiday season?

For public good, not for profit.

In a tough year for toys, Mattel has played a good game

Oct 16, 2013
Toy analysts say Mattel's core brands and its progress in high-tech toys have helped it do better than some other toymakers.

Barbie v. Bratz: The never-ending court battle

Jan 25, 2013
Mattel first sued MGA over its Bratz dolls nine years ago, contending their designer worked for Mattel when he came up with the idea. The legal battle goes on, long after Bratz faded.

Royal Caribbean introduces a Barbie cruise

Sep 11, 2012
You can get a Barbie-decorated stateroom, tea parties, fashion shows and more.