Disney and Pixar have a new winner on their hands. The movie Brave’s main character is a girl. That’s right the heroine of this story is Merida (Kelly MacDonald), a headstrong red head that knows exactly what she wants. But don’t worry there’s enough fighting and a few scares to satisfy any brother, big or little, that is dragged to see this movie.
Merida is a little shocked when she finds out her mother has arraigned for a contest between the clans. The winner of the contest will win her hand in marriage. She, of course, wants no part of this. She would rather ride her horse Angus and practice her archery. A sport she is excels at. She tried talking to her mother but it’s tough thing since she is the queen and thinks she knows what’s best for the princess. Merida ends up making fools of her suitors when she shows her skill at archery and splits the winning suitors arrow down the middle. Merida’s mother, Elinor (Emma Thompson), is not happy and they end up yelling at each other. So Merida tries to change her fate by magic, which of course backfires.
There’s enough jokes and shout outs to other Scottish type movies to keep parents entertained. Bravheart in particular was evident throughout the movie. Some of the funniest scenes were of Merida’s three brothers. Triplets who were little devils causing all sorts of mischief. Merida’s father, King Fergus (Billy Connolly), is also pretty funny especially when he tells the tail of how he lost his leg. But the best thing this movie has going for it is the animation. Pixar out did themselves getting the background scenery perfect! The ancient dolmens of Scotland, the standing stones and the rolling green hills. Also the hills covered in purple heather were breathtaking. I made me want to jump on a plane and go back to a country I love to visit. I really felt like I was in Scotland.
So if you want to see great scenery, sword fights and action then this wonderful movie is a must see