Barbarella

Jane Fonda as Barbarella - 1968 - costume design by Paco Nabanne

Jane Fonda was somewhat reluctant to appear in Barbarella, a classic 1960s science fiction film directed by Roger Vadim, notably her husband at the time.

In later years she was embarased to have played such a sex symbol at a time that was on the eve of a sexual revolution and feminist movement that would change culture forever. She has been known now to now laugh at the at the 1960s science fiction film and its flat depiction of her character without purpose or direction other than to display the space age costumes and gorgeous hair.

Though flawed in plot and fulfillment of character development it is still considered a classic for its rich visual palette and design. It’s colorful hues and futuristic vision is often recreated when making references to the novelty of early space travel of 1960s culture.