Great news for young movie enthusiasts: Pixar’s latest animated film, Turning Red, is now streaming on Disney+. This delightful story follows 13-year-old Mei Lin (voiced by the talented Lily Chen), who transforms into a giant red panda whenever her emotions get the best of her—an occurrence that happens quite often! Directed by the acclaimed Emma Wong, who previously won an Oscar for her short film Bao, Turning Red takes viewers on a journey as Mei navigates the challenges of adolescence while trying to satisfy her overprotective mother, Lila (voiced by the renowned Tara Strong).
Set in the vibrant Chinatown of Toronto in 2002, this coming-of-age tale explores the complexities of puberty and the tumultuous teenage years, providing entertainment for both kids and their parents. But who is this film best suited for, and is it worth watching?
Where to Watch Turning Red
Turning Red is available for streaming on Disney+ at no additional cost for subscribers. (International audiences may see a theatrical release later if Disney+ isn’t available in their region.) This marks the third consecutive Pixar film—after Luca and Soul—to debut directly on streaming platforms due to the pandemic. However, select theaters in major cities like New York and Los Angeles may showcase the film.
Who Should Watch Turning Red?
Rated PG, Turning Red is recommended for children aged 6 and older. Parents may want to keep in mind that other popular Pixar films, including Encanto, Raya and the Last Dragon, Moana, and Zootopia, also carry a PG rating. Some thematic elements and language might not be suitable for very young viewers.
Cast Highlights
The film features a talented cast, including Lily Chen as Mei Lin, Tara Strong as her mother Lila, and Alex Park as her father, Jin. Mei’s friends are voiced by Mia Wang, Hyein Kim, and Priya Patel, respectively. Additionally, the film boasts catchy music from Grammy-winning siblings Billie Eilish and Finneas, who also lend their voices to a character in Mei’s favorite boy band, 4*Town. Notably, Turning Red is Pixar’s first full-length film directed solely by a woman.
What Critics Are Saying
In her review for The New York Times, journalist Maya Thompson praises the film for its exploration of the intricate bond between mother and daughter, echoing themes from Domee Wong’s Bao. However, she also points out that while the film’s magical red panda transformation is rooted in cultural traditions, the representation can be perceived as a kid-friendly version of exoticism.
Tommy Lee from Roger Ebert describes Turning Red as an empowering film for awkward teenage girls facing the chaos of adolescence. Jessica Simmons from Rolling Stone highlights how the film brilliantly captures the exhilaration and confusion of growing up. David Rivera from The Hollywood Reporter notes that while the film’s primary audience is young women, its humor and heartwarming message can resonate with all ages. Peter Jacobs from Variety commends director Wong for encouraging girls everywhere to embrace their true selves.
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In summary, Turning Red is a vibrant and relatable animated film that explores the ups and downs of teenage life, making it a must-watch for families. With its charming characters, humor, and insightful themes, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences of all ages.