There are movies I wish were made when I was a kid. Turning Red is one of those.

Turning Red tells the story of a 13-year old girl named Mei Lee (Rosalie Chiang) and her mother (Sandra Oh) who live in Toronto, Canada. Mei who has always been close to her mom and an A student has a crush on a boy who works nearby. Her mother finds out and prohibits Mei to see the boy again. Mei sad and worried cries herself to sleep. The next day, Mei finds herself transforming into a big furry red panda. Mei confused seeks help from her mother. Her mother shares with her that turning into big furry pandas is nothing new in her family. Mei’s ancestors and her mother share a history of transforming into pandas when they feel high intense emotions. Aside from Mei and her mother’s relationship, Mei has four unique friends who share the same interests. They all love a boy band called 4* town. To everyone’s surprise, 4* town announces a concert in Toronto. Mei and her friends set a plan to collect funds to buy tickets. Nothing comes easy to Mei Lee though, as she has to make the decision to break the spell of becoming a panda permanently or attending the concert of her favorite band. Shockingly, everything is happening on the same night! Turning Red is a coming-out-of age story and can be compared to setting foot into the opening phase of womanhood.

Domee Shi, the first woman to direct a short at Pixar, “Bao” is the director of the film, along with Juia Cho who wrote the screenplay with Shi. Shi and Cho have created an inspiring and unique story with important topics to the youth. For the first time, a Pixar film introduces topics such as puberty, flaws, embracing emotions, Asian communities, and a boy band. Shi and Cho’s story is delivered flawlessly. It’s moving, fun, and heartening. I mean when did you think that a very cute panda could be a metaphor for emotions that people are afraid of owning. There is nothing wrong with being mad, angry, stressed, or sad. These are real emotions people deal with. Shi and Cho teach us to accept these emotions with their film. Also, Turning Red will resonate with mothers who might now or in the future have a hard time letting go, allowing their child to grow up, and eventually letting him/her to become independent. Also, the movie accurately depicts the importance of friendship. Mei and her friends are nerdy. They support each other. They show acceptance by still befriending Mei after they know that she has turned into a panda. Shi and Cho once again show how friends are important and how they increase your sense of belonging and your purpose.

Turning Red is special because for its universal messages, unique animation, female-led team, and a narrative that takes you back to being a teenager all over again.

Turning Red hits Disney Plus on Friday, March 11th.