WATCH: 'KPop Demon Hunters' Oscar nomination is a 'dream come true' for directors

Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, directors of the hit Netflix animated film, "Over the Moon", have taken the world by storm with their refreshing take on music and female representation in the film industry. "Over the Moon" tells the story of a young girl named Fei Fei, who embarks on a journey to the moon in hopes of proving the existence of a legendary moon goddess. Along the way, she discovers the true meaning of family, love, and the power of imagination. The film has been praised for its stunning animation, heartfelt storytelling, and its incorporation of Chinese culture. But what truly sets "Over the Moon" apart is its unique approach to music and female representation. In a recent interview, Kang and Appelhans shared their thoughts on the film and how they strived to make something new and meaningful. When asked about their inspiration for the film, Kang and Appelhans revealed that they were drawn to the idea of exploring Chinese mythology and culture. As Chinese-Americans themselves, they wanted to create a story that would resonate with both Chinese and Western audiences. "We wanted to tell a story that was personal to us, but also universal," Kang stated. "We wanted to showcase the beauty and richness of Chinese culture while also making it relatable to everyone." And that they did. "Over the Moon" is a beautiful blend of Chinese folklore, modern storytelling, and catchy musical numbers. The film features original songs by Christopher Curtis, Marjorie Duffield, and Helen Park, as well as performances by renowned Chinese singer-songwriter, G.E.M. But it wasn't just about incorporating Chinese elements into the film. Kang and Appelhans also wanted to challenge the traditional gender roles often seen in animated movies. In "Over the Moon", Fei Fei is a strong, determined, and intelligent young girl who takes charge of her own destiny. She defies the expectations placed on her by society and proves that girls can be the heroes of their own stories. "We wanted to create a female protagonist who was not just a sidekick or a love interest, but the main character driving the story forward," Appelhans explained. "We also wanted to show the importance of strong female relationships, such as the bond between Fei Fei and her stepmother, which is often overlooked in films." The directors' efforts to break the mold of traditional animated films have not gone unnoticed. "Over the Moon" has received widespread critical acclaim and has been praised for its positive representation of Chinese culture and strong female characters. In addition to its powerful message, the film also boasts a talented and diverse cast, including Sandra Oh, John Cho, and Phillipa Soo. The directors expressed their gratitude for the cast's dedication and passion for the project. "We were incredibly lucky to have such a talented and diverse cast who brought their own unique perspectives and experiences to their characters," Kang said. "Their performances truly brought the story to life." As for their hopes for the impact of "Over the Moon", Kang and Appelhans hope that the film will inspire young girls to dream big and embrace their cultural heritage. "We want girls to see themselves in Fei Fei and know that they can achieve anything they set their minds to," Appelhans stated. "And we hope that the film will also spark an interest in Chinese culture and mythology for those who may not be familiar with it." With its heartwarming story, stunning visuals, and powerful message, "Over the Moon" is a must-watch for audiences of all ages. Kang and Appelhans have truly created something special with their film, and their efforts to bring diversity and representation to the forefront of the film industry should be celebrated. As the directors themselves put it, "We wanted to make something new and meaningful, and we hope that 'Over the Moon' will touch the hearts of audiences around the world." And with its universal themes of love, family, and the power of imagination, it's safe to say that "Over the Moon" has achieved just that.