Turning Red
Directed by Domee Shi (2022)
Film Review by KM, Movie Lightbox
“Honor your parents”, a premise central to “Turning Red”, a coming-of-age animated film directed and co-written by Domee Shi; a charming yet bold depiction of family virtues, individuality and the “magical puberty” stage.
Set in Toronto in the early 2000s, the film follows Mei Lee, a 13-year old Chinese-Canadian who wakes up one morning and finds herself transformed into a giant red panda. A tug-of-war could be perceived between her personal interests and expectations set within her strict family; smart and free-spirited within her circle of friends yet passive and loyal to her family virtues. As in many Asian cultures, with family as a central institution, the story lays out a strong emphasis on family connection as a wellspring of identity and personality. Throughout the series of events before and after her transformation, there is emphasis on filial piety - respecting family’s senior members. A virtue which broadens the audiences’ understanding on how Mei transforms into a red panda and the mystic connections to her ancestors. Toronto as a setting is like a center stage, with references to iconic locales and colorful details adds a certain kind of vibrancy to the film and highlights the multicultural aspect of the city. The distinctive style of editing - fast-paced, series of dreamlike imaginations, sudden outburst of emotions and humor could be attributed to the filmmaker’s inspiration from popular Japanese animes. The vocal performances from Rosalie Chiang as Mei Lee and Sandra Oh as Ming are clear standouts along with Mei’s best friends Miriam, Priya and Abby. Original songs from the fictional 4*Town boy band also adds verve to the film’s plot.
Domee Shi’s vision acknowledges the specificity of her protagonist’s beliefs and culture, reminiscent of Hayao Miyazaki’s film, but at the same time she embraces a much universal theme of individuality, of honoring yourself while never losing touch of family virtues. The film unbinds an audacious portrait on self-awareness and forms a tranquil realization that sometimes it is okay to embrace your inner beast.
Turning Red is now playing on a streaming service.