Comic mischief, silly rudeness, a PG-worthy intensity, and occasionally mirthful dialogue similarly get lost in the resoundingly contrived cure for the curse, complete disregard for closure with the witch, and ignorance to the resolution of Merida’s three brothers’ plight (which is unexplained despite a more than trivial involvement). Alas, the lack of an involving plot negates the splendor of lighting, cinematography, smoke-like wisps, or even Merida’s hair, an impressively buoyant, spongy, carrot-colored mass that is seemingly a character of its own. Anymore, scrutiny seems pulled in directions other than the stunning imagery that takes innumerable hours and plenty of talent to construct and animate. A role reversal of mother and daughter caring for one another is mildly amusing but also derivative of the frequent theme of prematurely being forced into responsibility and action, found in countless other animations.Īlthough commonly taken for granted, the water effects are spectacular, as are various elemental inventions. The typical rebellious teen provides laughs, but again creates a sense of the film struggling to relate to audiences. The stereotypical portrayal of Scottish culture feels reminiscent of “How to Train Your Dragon’s” Viking inhabitants, which is to say that the visuals of clothing, sets, and character designs are largely unoriginal. There are also no less than three montages governed by singing an element generally absent from the stirring orchestral compositions found in Pixar’s more mature ventures. But magic, destiny, fate, legends, the breaking of traditions, and the pursuit of freedoms are all involved in the fast-paced world of ancient Scotland.

While King Fergus (Billy Connolly) entertains the visiting lords and their sons, Merida sneaks out and stumbles into the secluded cottage of an old wood carver who offers to conjure a spell that will forever change the queen’s stance on marriage.Īs with the trailers for “Up,” “Brave” wisely gives nothing away with the brief, comedic, introductory television spots. Betrothal and a planned life couldn’t be more unattractive to the orange-haired youth who wants to journey into the forest for adventure and archery practice. But defiant young princess Merida (Kelly Macdonald) wants nothing to do with the games of competition that will decide her suitor from the three neighboring clans of Scottish warriors. “A princess strives for perfection,” insists Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson), a proper, respected leader trying desperately to curb her impetuous daughter’s mindset. It’s hopelessly average – made almost unforgiveable because of the quirky, bounding desk lamp that has become known in the industry as a proclaimer of animated masterpieces. “Brave” just doesn’t bring any of that to the table, instead being palatable and pleasant but never groundbreaking or awe-inspiring. For any other studio, it might have been enough to be cute and adventuresome, but for Pixar, audiences will demand emotional attachment, resourcefully funny humor, dramatic poignancy, and character development that begets unforgettable personas. This works against “Brave,” which is unfortunately a grandly mediocre accomplishment.

Ixar has set the bar so high for computer animated features that judgment against them is particularly strict.

Movie brave 2012 rating