Turning Red
Turning Red [2022]
Starring (the voices of): Sandra Oh, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Rosalie Chiang
Direction by Domee Shi
Language: English
I think that everyone gets to an age where they think they're 'too old' to see animated movies, and whilst I like to think of myself as a very esteemed film critic, animated movies definitely have their charm: why else would it be the most streamed movie in 2022? Dragged to see the movie in the cinema with a younger sibling, I didn't expect to enjoy the movie so much! It is especially heartwarming when you see representation of a culture similar to yours in a children's movie: cultural differences aren't highly politicised or subject to harmful stereotypes like they are in live-action, more mature films.
Let's talk about the messages of the movie: I feel as if this movie found a way to disprove a stereotype associated with Asian parenting: in Western popular culture, parents of an East Asian descent are subject to the stereotype that they are excessively harsh and unfair, and are thus subconsciously demonised by audiences. However, as somebody with a first-hand experience of a similar culture, what can be seen as 'crazy' parenting is actually the product of layers of vulnerability, intensity, and protection. The screenwriters of this play were able to find a balance between the complexity of the relationship between a first-generation ethnic mother and a daughter born in a completely different environment; portraying the relationship in such a way that all the vulnerability and tension was shown, but in a very simplified way. I feel as if it would be much more impactful if other movies could replicate this style: true meanings are so often disguised when they should be the centre of attention.
Another thing I would like to talk about is the clash of cultures and how that was portrayed: the Red Panda that the main character, Mei, turns into whenever she is embarrassed is evocative of the difficulty that accompanies the need to live almost as separate versions of yourself. The contrast between the expectations of respect and order in one culture completely contradicts the individualism and prioritisation of self in another. There are certain scenes which I will leave for you to view on your own, but I'm getting chills just thinking about them: this movie is so incredibly powerful, and it is almost as if you need to watch it at an older age to fully understand the true value of it.
What this movie ultimately preaches is the importance of unity, respect for others, and the importance of balance between the extremes of one's identity. And whilst all animated movies explore these themes more or less, this movie did it in such a wonderfully unique way. I have not seen a movie that is not only rooted in tradition and culture, but also features predominantly female leads without the incorporation of a male saviour to fix everything!
I realise that this is a movie targeted for a younger audience, but it is what lies in the narrative and in the details of the movie that distinguish it from others of the genre.
