Internet left divided after first look at Ryan Gosling in Barbie movie

Actor Ryan Gosling will star as Ken in next year's live-action Barbie movie – but one year before release, fans have already been given a sneak peek at the star in character.

Taking to Twitter, Warner Brothers Pictures shared a photo of the 41-year-old actor in character as Barbie's boyfriend, complete with bleached-blonde hair, double denim, washboard abs and Ken-branded Y-front underwear.

But the look is causing much debate online – some fans love it, while others aren't sure what to think.

After several years stuck in development, the film is finally going ahead directed by Greta Gerwig.

Development of the film started in 2009 but finally kicked into gear last year when Gerwig signed on to direct. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, she said she intended to subvert expectations.

"People immediately have an idea of, 'Oh, Margot is playing Barbie, I know what that is,' but our goal is to be like, 'Whatever you're thinking, we're going to give you something totally different - the thing you didn't know you wanted'," she said.

"If we can do all that and provoke a thoughtful conversation, then we're really firing on all cylinders."

What are your thoughts?