Brave

Easily one of the most trusted names in animated filmmaking, Pixar is back with another original story for children and adults, alike. Following behind a pair of franchise sequels (Toy Story 3 and Cars 2), with Brave the studio is set to tackle its very first full-length princess fairy tale story – a staple of Disney’s hand-drawn animated classics. This round, Pixar alum and John Carter co-writer Mark Andrews is stepping into the director’s chair, after the film’s creator, Brenda Chapman (The Prince of Egypt), left the project following a series of creative differences.

Brave (originally titled The Bear and the Bow) follows reckless tomboy Princess Merida (Kelly Macdonald) whose mother, Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson), has been diligently preparing her for a life of royal responsibilities. Unlike more traditional Princesses, Merida takes after her warrior father, King Fergus (Billy Connolly), and would much rather be riding through the forest on horseback firing arrows, or climbing mountains, than dressing for a royal function or practicing proper etiquette. Her rebellious attitude comes to a head when the Queen invites three leaders in the kingdom to present their sons as suitors for Merida, and the Princess makes a deal with a local witch who promises to help change the girl’s fate. Unfortunately, the witch’s spell results in unexpected consequences, forcing Merida to rethink her obligation as Princess – for the sake of her family as well as the betterment of the kingdom.

Brave provides plenty of eye candy for animated film fans. The hair effects alone are incredible – not to mention the gorgeous rolling hills of the Scottish countryside. Additionally, the movie offers a solid story that, in spite of a heavy reliance on familiar archetypes, manages to put a unique stamp on the fairytale genre. Merida isn’t exceptionally different from prior Disney Princesses (who yearn to be free of their responsibilities and live a “normal” life) but the similarities won’t prevent audiences from identifying with the character or her personal journey.