While Pixar employees have reportedly grumbled that Pixar films have been going straight to Disney+ during the pandemic and post-pandemic, the animated studio is having a banner year and is not slowing down. Having just come off the Oscar-winning “Soul” in March (which won Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score), Pixar then released “Luca,” the Italian seaside, sea-monster friendship film. While that picture was the film in question going straight to Disney+, it’s terrific and yet another winner for Disney and their studio. And they have yet another film on the way in “Turning Red.”
READ MORE: Summer 2021 Preview: Over 50 Movies To Watch
“Turning Red” is further proof of Pixar’s in-house system. They have a long history of graduating storyboard artists or animators to director status, and their short films also works as a kind of creative incubator. “Turning Red” definitely comes from the latter system. It’s directed by Domee Shi, who won an Oscar in 2018 for her short film, “Bao.”
READ MORE: The 50 Best Animated Films Of The 21st Century So Far
The premise of this one is simple but fun: a 13-year-old girl turns into a giant red panda whenever she gets too excited. This feels like another perfect manifestation of child emotions expressed in a big animated manner, Pixar’s signature move. The voice cast includes Sandra Oh, and newcomer 13-year-old, Rosalie Chiang. Here’s the official synopsis:
READ MORE: The 100 Most Anticipated Films Of 2021
Check out the new trailer and poster showcasing the upcoming all-new original feature film “Turning Red” from Pixar Animation Studios’ director Domee Shi, who won an Oscar® for her 2018 short film, “Bao.” Young actress Rosalie Chiang lends her voice to Mei Lee, a 13-year-old who suddenly “poofs” into a giant red panda when she gets too excited (which is practically ALWAYS). Sandra Oh (“The Chair,” “Killing Eve”) voices Mei Lee’s protective, if not slightly overbearing mother, Ming, who is never far from her daughter—an unfortunate reality for the teenager. Directed by Shi and produced by Lindsey Collins, Disney and Pixar’s “Turning Red” releases March 11, 2022.
READ MORE: The Best Animated Movies Of The Decade [the 2010s]
“Turning Red” opens in theaters on March 11, 2022, but Pixar gives us a long-lead taste of the film now. Watch the first teaser trailer below.
