Hollywood star Michael Cera hits hometown big screen for Barbie Movie screening in Brampton

Film fans can enjoy a special movie night this week when Hollywood star Michael Cera graces the big screen in his hometown for Movies Under the Stars.

The annual movie screening series runs every summer in Brampton and features films ranging from family-friendly adventures to non-stop action flicks.

This week’s showing in Garden Square will feature Brampton’s own Hollywood A-lister taking on the role of the one-and-only Allan in last year’s blockbuster hit The Barbie Movie.

The film adaptation of the beloved children’s toy opened last summer with an all-star cast including Cera along with fellow Canadians Ryan Gosling and Mississauga’s Simu Liu as duelling versions of Ken, fighting over who will be the title character’s main squeeze.

Cera plays Allan, Ken’s best friend, who was introduced in 1964 as “Ken’s buddy” by toymaker Mattel. The Allan doll was part of an expansion of the Barbie product line, which included the addition of Barbie’s sister Skipper and best friend Midge.

Before the film’s release, various versions of the dolls were listed for nearly $800 CAD on eBay, and Cera even bought a vintage Allan doll of his own to keep in the hair and make-up room on set as a mascot.

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Allan has developed a cult following among Barbie fans and has even become an icon in LGBTQ+ communities, with some speculating Allan and Ken were more than just good friends.

Born in Brampton, Cera attended Conestoga Public School, Robert H. Lagerquist Senior Public School and Heart Lake Secondary School before breaking into the movie business. He reached fame in award-winning films like Juno and is best-known for his iconic roles in Superbad and Arrested Development.

This week’s Movies Under the Stars screening will feature Cera on the big screen as well as a Character Meet and Greet before the show featuring performers dressed up as movie characters.

Movie season runs throughout July and August, weather permitting, with free admission. The city recommends moviegoers bring a blanket or lawn chair.

You can enjoy the Character Meet and Greet from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and watch The Barbie Movie in Brampton’s Garden Square on Saturday at 8 p.m.