Turning Red - Review: more than I expected

Another Disney movie? Yes, it is impossible to avoid them with a six-year-old in the house. In fact, she was the one that wanted to show me this movie. She watched it in school and was adamant that I needed to watch it.

Well, I did, and she was right. I liked it. I don’t even know where to begin this review. If Encanto was sweet, this one is special.

Teenagers and Friendship

The movie is about a teen girl who has the ability (or curse) to transform herself into a giant red panda. But, unfortunately, she can’t control when she transforms. So it can be not very pleasant (to say the least) sometimes.

She has a small group of friends that are the best friends one can have. They accept her and protect her, no matter what. Friendship is above everything else. Also, they don't foresee significant consequences for the little giant red problem. They are teens!

Each girl is very different from the others, each with their style, which is amazing and funny. Not all girls need to be very “girly” and princesses.

Details that make the difference

There are little details in this movie that you might not even notice. That's what makes the film special. For example, one scene shows a little girl with a patch sensor of glucose on her arm.

They never talk about it. You don’t even have a close-up of the device. You don’t need to. That’s how the movie shows it is normal.

I loved this natural way of dealing with it. Some may not even notice. Yet, the children who need the patch will. They'll identify and feel represented. They will feel seen. There is a space for them in the Disney movies. Sensitive, subtle, perfect!

Surprise!

I was very surprised by some details, though. It was less little child-oriented than most Disney movies. Maybe their target was a slightly older audience, but my 6 years old loved it anyway.

It raised some questions, and it can be a good starting point for some conversations. I believe that this was why she wanted me to watch it so badly - so she could ask.

A good one

Once more, a good Disney movie, with good life lessons, adapted to our living times. Less Prince charming, fewer damsels in distress, and more action and fun. Well done, Disney!

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