Disney Pixar has now released the short trailer and first glimpse of its much-anticipated short film 'Bao', made by Chinese-Canadian director Domee Shi, the animation giant's first female director of an animated short .
According to the veteran storyboard artist (and self-professed eating enthusiast) she describes her culinary fable as a "magical, modern-day fairy tale, kind of like a Chinese Gingerbread Man story".
"It explores the ups and downs of the parent-child relationship through the colorful, rich and tasty lens of the Chinese immigrant community in Canada," Pixar said in an official statement.
"Mom excitedly welcomes this new bundle of joy into her life. But Dumpling starts growing up fast and she must come to the bittersweet revelation that nothing stays cute and small forever."
Shi's mother, a Chinese-Canadian immigrant, also helped as a "cultural consultant" on the film. Her dumpling-making skills were put to splendid use, certifying that the movie's animated dumpling-making scenes were as accurate as possible.
Pixar short films produce as much thrill as their feature length offerings and they are pored over in great detail, sometimes demonstrating controversial topics despite its nature.
Take for example Lava, the short film that was screened before the Pixar blockbuster Inside Out, told the tale of a male and female volcano somewhere in the Pacific that fall in love. Many viewers spoke out dismissing the storyline, but its gender representation and even its geological integrity came under fire. Its latest feature animation Coco was also closely examined after years of cartoon stereotypes of Mexicans and Mexican culture.
However, the question of representation of Asian talent in the entertainment industry has also been a major concern for many. Recently, Hollywood has been accused of failing to offer roles to Asian or Asian American actors, even when the part is an Asian character, the so-called "whitewashing" of Hollywood.
However, this newly released feature from Pixar will give something new to Pixar's avid viewers.
On the other hand, the fans will get a first glimpse of the trailer on Instagram and some users gave an overwhelming expression of joy upon seeing the short.
"Very excited for this short because it's coming from Pixar's first female Asian director. I can tell that it will be very emotional. Can't wait," said fan Abby Berlage.
"Two of my favourite things, baos and babies," said another Instagram user Lindsey Worley.
You can watch Bao here.
