If you saw our initial social media reaction to Turning Red, you know that we wrapped up our thoughts by excitingly saying, “you guys are gonna love it!” Having seen the film exactly two weeks before writing this post, we still stand by our initial excitement. In fact, we can’t wait until March 11, so we can watch the film on Disney+ again — add the film to your Watchlist here.
Turning Red definitely has a feel – a vibe – that makes us want to turn it on again. I’m not sure if it’s the unique color palette popping off the screen, the feel-good score by Ludwig Göransson, or the fresh animation style for Pixar (subtle anime moments blended with traditional Pixar aesthetics). Still, you just feel good when the credits roll.
We think this also stems from the amazing characters which the team created. Everyone from the lead character of Meilin Lee to her parents to her trio of friends was instantly likable and relatable.
As seen in this recent clip released on Pixar’s YouTube channel, the introduction of Mei was the perfect way to immediately set the stage for the film. It showcases where the film takes place (Toronto, Canada), introduces us to Mei’s confident and quirky personality, and to her amazing friends.
While we didn’t cry at Turning Red (figured we’d write it since we’re often asked), we laughed (a lot) and absolutely related to the wedge issue of the film – that time when you’re starting to come into your own. When you grow in a slightly different direction from your parents and become more independent. This is in no way a movie about leaving your parents behind, but it’s a good reminder that we often don’t break away cleanly as we grow – we often splinter and have rough edges that need to be smoothed out.
We also enjoyed the twists in the story of Turning Red. When we thought the film might become predictable, the story smoothly and naturally shifted us in another direction. It was a moment that left us feeling relieved and pleasantly happy. (We’ll be sure to expand on this point when we hold our YouTube Live hangout (coming shortly after the film’s release.)
The bottom line is that if you’ve been following along with our posts and discussions with the filmmakers from Turning Red, you know we really enjoyed the film – and we believe you will, too.
Get lost in the funny and heartwarming story of Turning Red – and take in all the cuteness that Red Panda Mei is! Watch it on Disney+ on March 11, 2022.
