Turning Red 2 (2025)
“Growing up is messy… again.” 🐼💖

Pixar’s beloved red panda returns in Turning Red 2, a heartfelt, hilarious, and visually dazzling sequel that proves growing up never stops being complicated. Set a few years after the first film, Mei Lee (Rosalie Chiang) is now in high school — more confident, more stylish, and still just as prone to poofing into her giant red panda form whenever her emotions run wild.

This time, the story dives deeper into family legacy and friendship as Mei discovers an ancient connection between her panda spirit and a mysterious celestial event called “The Crimson Moon.” When her powers start acting up in unpredictable — and sometimes hilariously disastrous — ways, Mei must team up with her ride-or-die friends Miriam, Priya, and Abby to uncover the truth before the next full moon changes her panda side forever.

Director Domee Shi once again nails the balance between comedy, cultural authenticity, and emotional punch. The film bursts with vibrant animation, from the neon glow of Toronto’s night festivals to the dreamy, mystical sequences inside Mei’s panda realm. The humor lands just as hard as the first movie — whether it’s Mei’s mom Ming (Sandra Oh) overreacting in the most lovable way possible, or the friend group’s awkwardly epic attempts at teenage problem-solving.

At its heart, Turning Red 2 is about embracing the messy, unpredictable parts of ourselves — not just as teens, but as people learning to grow into who we are. The emotional beats hit deep, especially in the moments between Mei and her mother, showing how love evolves as children grow older.

With its infectious energy, lovable characters, and a finale that will have audiences both laughing and tearing up, Turning Red 2 is proof that Pixar magic is alive and well. It’s funny, heartfelt, and unapologetically vibrant — just like Mei herself.