Healing the Past: Generational Trauma and Identity in Turning Red

Abstract

Animation is a powerful tool for engaging audiences in a fun and innovative way, especially in the context of animated children’s films. These films use vibrant visuals, imaginative storytelling, and relatable characters to connect with young viewers, making complex themes more accessible and engaging. This is particularly evident in Domee Shi’s Turning Red (2022), where animation is a medium for entertainment and a way to explore complex psychological and cultural themes. In the film, 13-year-old Meilin Lee, a Chinese-Canadian girl, transforms into a red panda whenever her emotions become overwhelming. The plot centers around an ancient curse passed down to Mei, causing her to change into a large, hairy, sweaty, and stinky red panda—utterly contrary to the traditional expectations of a 13-year-old girl. Using animation to explore these profoundly emotional themes, Turning Red presents a powerful metaphor for the psychological consequences of suppressing emotions, particularly anger, to conform to cultural and familial expectations. The film explores the impact of generational trauma on identity and emotional development, showing how these unresolved issues are passed down and affect one’s sense of self. Through its creative animation and vivid storytelling, Turning Red offers a meaningful exploration of self-acceptance and emotional expression. This paper will analyze the film’s depiction of generational trauma, examining how emotional suppression and the pressure to conform impact Mei’s identity and development.