Brave.

I finally got to see the new Pixar film, Brave, on Friday. :)

I really loved it. It was sweet and funny. The setting and whole Scottish atmosphere was great, and the film itself is beautiful. (The musical score was lovely, too, though I wish the non-score songs were less pop and more authentic sounding.)

And Merida has pretty much the best hair ever.

I'll have to admit that I'm not usually into stories that feature super-independent, break-all-traditions girl types. I'm not saying that I want to read about female characters who are unintelligent, lifeless pushovers. But I'm sort of old-fashioned and happen to like tradition, you know? I hate that modern films and books have to take every princess and turn her into a fierce warrior.

But I liked Merida. She was a bit whiny and rash at first, but she definitely changes over the course of the film (as does her mom). Sure, she rides horses and climbs cliffs and is better at archery than all of the guys. But she's also smart and elegant and can be the gentle but firm peacemaker when she has to be. And honestly, if I was faced with having to marry one of those three suitors (a big blonde guy whose speech nobody can understand, an arrogant pretty-boy type with "flowing locks"-ha-, or an awkward, wild-haired goober), I probably would have rebelled, too. :)

{I loved her joy in the scene where she was laughing and dancing around after climbing up near the waterfall.}

Even though I loved Brave, it wasn't quite as super-amazing and unforgettable as we've come to expect from Pixar. {I've mentioned before how much I adore Pixar films.} Like I've heard others say, it was "safe."  It wasn't extremely clever, witty, and unique. And even though it was very funny in spots (I loved those three little brothers :), I didn't laugh until I cried like with Monsters, Inc. or some of their other films. It had more kiddy, crude, goofy humor than usual.

And while the style of humor might appeal more to kids, other aspects of the film are definitely more grown-up. Like the mother/daughter conflict between Merida and Elinor. Or the scary moments with Mor'du. That bear was slightly terrifying to me...I know he would be for young children. :)

So...what did you think about Brave?

P.S. Have you seen the trailer for the Monsters, Inc. prequel, Monsters University? MI is my absolute favorite Pixar movie, and I really hope the second film will live up to the original just as much as the Toy Story sequels did. :)

Until next time,