Disney/Pixar finally has a female protagonist. It’s taken 13 movies, but the studio finally applied its gorgeous animation and deep themes to a female-centered film. My review of Brave, in theaters today, will undoubtedly be influenced by my recent examination of the Disney Renaissance, a period of animation which impacted an entire generation of young women with its crop of diverse and inspiring princesses. Add Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) to that list.
I went to a first-run cineplex today for the first time in ages. I went in the late morning to get a discount (I’ll spare you my complaints about movie prices.), and I was pleased to see the theater packed with viewers of all ages. Leave it to Pixar to attract a wide range of audience members on opening day. It will no doubt be number one at the box office this weekend, which will be a nice change of pace after the box office successes which have dominated the summer so far.
Brave focuses on a Scottish princess named Merida whose mother (voice of Emma Thompson) expects her to behave like a lady and fulfill her royal duties. Merida would rather practice her archery and ride her horse through the woods. It’s a classic concept which is given new life through a refreshing setting and a one-of-a-kind heroine. Merida’s wild, fiery hair matches her personality. She’s a bold, free-spirited young woman. This describes many of the Disney princesses of the 1990s, but what makes Merida different is her utter independence. The film’s plot starts moving when it is announced that three suitors will vie for Merida’s hand in marriage, a prospect Merida fights vehemently. The extremes to which she goes in order to avoid sacrificing her independence turn chaotic, and it’s up to her to fix things with bravery and compassion. In the process, Merida gains a better relationship with her family, her homeland, and her own spirit, something that’s a lot more relatable and inspiring for modern young women than the search for a handsome prince.
Brave features stunning computer animation, no surprise coming from the revolutionary Pixar. The Scottish landscapes are lush, green and sweeping. Every detail down to the clouds is lovingly depicted through realistic, artistic animation. Merida’s flaming red hair moves in haphazard curls with different textures and highlights. Each hair seems to have a life of its own. Her skin is creamy and tinged with pink, giving her character life.
The film includes sweeping sequences in which the “camera” moves in convincing cinematic fashion. Whether we follow the movement of an arrow hitting a target or the rapid pace of Merida’s horse as it gallops and leaps between trees and over logs, each shot is beautiful and meticulously crafted to look effortless.
The sound of the film is one of the most appealing things about it. The film features a cast of Scottish accents which are music to an American’s ears. I was excited to hear late night comedian Craig Ferguson’s voice as Lord Macintosh, and I loved Kelly Macdonald as the young heroine. The movie’s music is also lovely. There are various Scottish-style songs and instrumentals to set the tone. Everything comes together to create a magical adventure.
I think Brave is a refreshing departure from Pixar’s usual style. The film has a tone and look all its own (in addition to a new Disney princess) while still retaining that classic Disney/Pixar charm.
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