Brave

BRAVE

Pixar's latest is nothing short of breathtaking.

Slinging arrows. Photo by Heather, also seeing Brave.

2012, Animated Adventure, Rated PG

Distributed by Walt Disney Pictures

          Pixar never fails. It's amazing we can say that year after year and it always remains true. They really are the pioneers of modern animated films. Finding Nemo, Toy Story, and many others have become classics for adults and kids alike. Their newest effort, that of the beautifully crafted Brave, delivers on all expectations.

          Pixar's animation is always top notch. We have watched them grow from making toys walk and talk to bringing whole environments, real or fantasy, to life in the span of a couple of hours. They are masters at altering the style of the animation to fit the story being told. It is always evident that hours upon hours of care went into each visual in their films. Brave is no different. It looks more impressive than previous films because everything is wild in the film, untamed. Merida, the reluctant princess meant to marry, has gorgeous fiery red lochs that bounce and sway in total realism. The forest and kingdom are animated with flawless detail and a rigidness that suited the story well. The Scottish landscape is lush and vivid and unlike anything we've ever seen. There were so many complex environments that were displayed with grandeur. Visually, it's one of Pixar's best. 

          The story, though, is really the highpoint of the film. I refuse to give any of it away, however. You simply must go see the film. The trailers did not tell us what the movie is truly about, how the plot moves forward from normal to weird to weirder (but in a good way). Every element of a great animated movie is intertwined into a totally original story about a mother and daughter and the bond between them. It had me and everyone around me in tears by the end of it. Characters are fully realized and Merida's family will soon feel like your own. There is a witch in this story and she too was quite interesting and felt fresh. She didn''t have some tragic back story or anything, she was simply a weird old witch. You'll see what I mean.

          This film arrives with less bravado than some other animated films. But it tells an age-old story about family and the ties between mother and daughter. The film is not sprawling, not epic necessarily, but somewhat quiet, yet powerful nonetheless. It is incredibly sophisticated and says a lot about humanity, especially for a "kids" movie. Go see this film whether you're 4 or 94, you'll enjoy it thoroughly if you have a heart...or a mother.

          Side note: Sorry to make this review so short but I really don't want to give any of the plot away. But...it's Pixar! They're always great and Brave is just another shining example of that. Go see it.