Bao 2: A Potential Sequel to Pixar’s Beloved Short

Bao 2: A Potential Sequel to Pixar’s Beloved Short

Bao (2018), the heartfelt and culturally rich short film from Pixar, struck a chord with audiences worldwide through its emotional narrative about family, love, and letting go. Directed by Domee Shi, the film tells the story of a Chinese-Canadian mother who experiences an emotional rollercoaster when one of her homemade dumplings comes to life. She raises the dumpling as her child, only to face the bittersweet realization that he has grown up and seeks independence. Fans of the original have since speculated about a potential sequel, and while Pixar has not yet confirmed a Bao 2, the idea has been met with widespread excitement.

Plot Overview:

If Bao 2 were to be developed, the plot could continue to follow the journey of the dumpling boy and his mother. After the emotional departure of her “son” at the end of Bao, the sequel could explore the mother’s journey of self-discovery as she copes with empty nest syndrome. In this sequel, she may be faced with rediscovering her own identity and passions outside of her role as a mother. The film could delve into how she finds a sense of fulfillment and joy again, possibly reconnecting with her cultural roots or starting a new chapter in her life.

Another possibility for Bao 2 would be to shift focus to the dumpling boy as an adult. The film could explore how his mother’s love and care shaped his life, showing how he navigates adulthood, relationships, and his own sense of identity as a product of his unique upbringing. The story could delve into themes of gratitude, reconciling with the past, and understanding the importance of family.

Both scenarios would allow Pixar to expand on the beautiful themes of the original short while continuing to explore the complexities of family bonds, generational differences, and cultural traditions.

Themes and Cultural Significance:

One of the most cherished elements of Bao was its deep connection to Chinese-Canadian culture. A sequel could continue exploring cultural traditions, food, and family dynamics, which resonated with many viewers and provided a fresh perspective on universal themes. The rich visual style and attention to detail in portraying the mother-son relationship would likely carry over into the sequel, offering a deeper exploration of those themes while introducing new layers of personal growth.

Voice Cast:

While the cast for Bao 2 is not officially announced, we can expect the return of some beloved voices from the original film:

• Sandra Oh as the mother: Sandra Oh’s voice performance in the original Bao was both endearing and powerful, perfectly capturing the nurturing yet emotionally complex role of the mother.
• Tony Le as the dumpling boy: If the sequel focuses on the dumpling boy’s journey into adulthood, Tony Le’s voice could be a perfect fit for the now-grown character.

It’s likely that Pixar would retain the original voice talent, adding new characters to enrich the sequel’s story and emotional depth.

Visuals and Animation:

Pixar is known for its stunning animation, and Bao 2 would be no exception. The original short’s vibrant color palette and visually striking depiction of the dumpling world would be expanded, possibly incorporating new locations and experiences. Whether exploring the mother’s rediscovery of herself or following the dumpling boy in a bustling adult world, the animation would continue to serve as an emotional backdrop, complementing the film’s heartfelt themes.

With Pixar’s continued advancements in animation technology, a Bao 2 would undoubtedly deliver even more stunning, emotional, and culturally rich visuals, drawing viewers even deeper into its world.

Why Fans Are Eager for Bao 2:

1. Emotional Storytelling: The original Bao was a tearjerker for many, resonating deeply with audiences due to its universal themes of love, sacrifice, and letting go. A sequel could build upon these themes, diving deeper into the characters’ growth and journeys.

2. Cultural Representation: Bao received widespread praise for its authentic and loving portrayal of Chinese-Canadian culture, offering viewers a fresh perspective. A sequel would be a fantastic way to continue highlighting diverse cultural experiences and traditions.

3. Pixar’s Legacy: Pixar’s reputation for blending humor, heart, and meaningful storytelling would make a potential Bao 2 another must-watch film for families worldwide.