Turning Red
2022 · Directed by Domee Shi
Original language: English
- animation
- family
- comedy
- fantasy
The story
Thirteen-year-old Mei is experiencing the awkwardness of being a teenager with a twist – when she gets too excited, she transforms into a giant red panda.
What it’s like
Bright, saturated flat-color animation with bold outlines and a hand-drawn, slightly scrappy energy, set in a lively Toronto neighbourhood rendered in warm, sunlit streets, cluttered family apartments and a glowing red temple altar. Scenes shift between bouncy, kinetic comedy and quieter moments lit by soft lamplight, and the soundtrack pulses with early-2000s pop, boy-band hooks and a warm orchestral score. Pacing is brisk and playful, with physical gags and expressive close-ups giving way to tender pauses between mother and daughter. Its emotional register is warm, funny and sincere: a girl learning that her big feelings are not something to hide, and a mother and daughter slowly finding a way to understand each other. Intensity is low: mild peril, some slapstick, a few tense family arguments, and no gore or real violence. It suits a comfort watch, a family movie night, or a cheerful afternoon, and it is for people who want an energetic, heartfelt coming-of-age story with a big sense of humour.
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