The witch, who casts the spell on Merida’s mother, stirs a bubbling cauldron, and the central themes of fate and destiny are embodied in glowing mystical apparitions known as ‘will-o’-the-wisps. The large role that magic plays in this story may be of concern to some parents. Like most fairytales, magic plays an integral role in “Brave”’s central plot. “Brave” has a more dark and more mature tone than its Pixar predecessors. The importance of family is another theme that is present, and it is refreshing to see a positive portrayal of a nuclear family with both a mom and a dad, who love each and their children. Ultimately, we see a very tender and heartfelt bond between a mother and daughter whose love for each other grow even deeper. Elinor comes to better understand her spirited tomboy of a daughter, and Merida blossoms into a mature young woman, who now has a newfound respect and appreciation for all of the ideals that her mother has tried to instill in her. Merida apologizes to her mother and learns from her mistakes. Throughout the movie, Merida and Elinor grow as people and mend their strained relationship. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” - Jeremiah 29:11. The spiritual themes of fate and destiny are at the heart of this fairytale, and while theses themes are not dealt with from the Christian worldview, this movie could serve as an excellent conversation starter for parents to discuss God’s will with their children and help their kids understand that God has a wonderful plan for each of our lives. The witch tells them that the only way they can break the spell is for them to “mend the bond which pride has broken.” This mother and daughter pair embark on a heartwarming and often humorous journey as they must work together to break the beastly spell that has been cast on Elinor. We see the negative consequences of Merida’s rebellion throughout the movie, while positive themes of love and forgiveness shine through in this tale. Merida feels misunderstood, and Elinor becomes frustrated with her rebellious daughter. Merida is headstrong, rebellious, and wants to make her own decisions, while Elinor is a loving mother who wants to do all she can to prepare her daughter for what she feels is the best path for her. These conflicts are handled in an appropriate manner that kids and parents will be able to relate to. “Brave” does a good job of portraying the conflict, rebellion, and misunderstandings that arise between teen girls and their mother. Merida and her mother face many of the same struggles and conflicts that mothers and daughters face every day. “Brave” is Pixar’s first fairytale, and it is not like the studio’s previous films, which are more lightweight and colorful in their aesthetic, rather “Brave” stands on its own as an engaging, heartfelt, and often humorous fairytale. The Scottish highlands are brought to life by vivid and realistic animation and a lively soundtrack of bagpipe music composed by Patrick Doyle. “Brave” is set in the beautiful backdrop of medieval Scotland. It’s no surprise that Pixar has produced a classic fairytale of its own. Merida and her mother must work together to reverse the beastly spell before it becomes permanent. The witch grants Merida’s wish and casts a spell that will cause her mother to change, but the spell does not turn out as Merida expected, and unleashes a beastly curse on her mother. Merida asks the witch to sell her a spell that will cause her mother to change her mind about her inevitable betrothal. After an ugly argument with her mother, Merida’s overwhelming desire to change her fate leads her to seek help from a witch. The last thing Merida wants is to become like her mother, a princess and a bride.

Much to her mother’s dismay, Merida bucks tradition and shoots for her own hand in marriage, defeating her potential suitors in the archery competition.

But the headstrong young Merida wants to choose her own path in life. Her mother, Elinor ( Emma Thompson) has spent years preparing Merida to take on her role as a princess and a lady. Merida is expected to follow tradition and marry one of the young suitors, who are competing to win her hand in marriage. Disney Pixar’s newest heroine, Princess Merida (Kelly McDonald) has a spirit that is as fiery as her unruly red hair.

Brave movie spirits