A large red panda looks into the mirror, looking mildly shocked at its own reflection. The comedy family film “Turning Red” came out on Disney+ on March 11 and portrayed a coming-of-age theme, making it a beloved story that kids of all ages can enjoy. Photo fair use of imbd.com
The new Pixar film “Turning Red” follows the experience of a Chinese-Canadian family with a secret ability.
Nothing brings back that early 2000s nostalgia like owning a Tamagotchi, listening to your favorite boy band or turning into a giant red panda that ties back to your ancestry.
The movie “Turning Red,” which takes place in the early 2000s, premiered on Disney+ on March 11. The comedy family film features Meilin “Mei” Lee, a 13-year-old Chinese-Canadian girl who claims she isn’t afraid to shine her own way, but lives in her mother’s shadow.
The movie presents relatable and quirky characters, and works to encourage self-acceptance towards a younger audience who might not accept themselves for who they are.
In one of the most notable aspects of the film, Mei transforms into a giant red panda whenever she feels strong emotions, an interesting and excellent take on how her character faces her inner demons.
Mei transforms into a giant red panda whenever she feels strong emotions, an interesting and excellent take on how her character faces her inner demons.
Throughout the film, Mei is faced with difficult and emotionally triggering situations that she learns to overcome by not controlling her feelings, but opening up to them. As the ongoing mental health crisis is becoming increasingly relevant to children, addressing these themes provides the audience with the knowledge that being emotionally vulnerable is OK.
Although the movie had moments that were stressful to watch, it flawlessly showcased the characters becoming more open-minded and accepting of their flaws. The character development is wonderfully played out and is clearly shown on-screen as Mei and her mother’s relationship evolves throughout the movie.
Other characters in the film, while acting as comedic and heartwarming side characters, play a large role in Mei’s character development. Her friends Priya, Abby and Miriam are a consistent positive influence on Mei, while continuing to embrace their own cringey teenage selves. Even Mei’s father, despite a lack of screen time, assists Mei with a kind and inspiring lecture towards the end of the movie.
It is clear that in this movie, along with “Encanto” and “Luca,” Pixar has taken a big step forward in the making of more diverse and culturally sound content that still connects to audiences of all ages who’ve grown up with Pixar films.
“Turning Red” is a remarkable, hopeful children’s movie that portrays a realistic but humorous view of the world today, making a great addition to the Pixar film lineup.
