Jun 12
25
Brave – Changing Your Fate
Changing your fate is something that many of us have considered from time to time. It may be something as simple as choosing where you want to go to college, changing your career, or deciding what you want to do with the rest of your life. In the latest offering from Disney/Pixar, “Brave” is centralized around the theme of changing your fate. For those of you who may not have seen the film yet, I will do my best to keep this as spoiler free as possible, but I wanted to share with you some of my thoughts concerning the film.
First, you cannot talk about a Pixar film without talking about the scenery. As you know, Brave was set in Scotland with animators making research trips to the country to study the land and learn about the culture. As with anything that is done by Disney, detail is of the utmost importance. The love and attention that went into getting everything right definitely shows. For those of you that may not know, Adventures by Disney is now offering a trip to Scotland. Personally, after seeing Brave, I would love to learn more especially since there is Scottish heritage in my family.
Speaking of family, Brave is centered around the family of Princess Merida. Her father is King Fergus, her mother is Queen Elinor, and she is the sister of triplet boys. The boys are mischievous and always seem to be getting into something, but they are incredibly loyal to Merida, helping her when she needs it. The plot of the movie focuses on the relationship between Merida and her mother. It looks at the choices Merida must make- to follow tradition and do as she is told because of her position, or break tradition and follow her own path. Over the last few days, there has been some controversy concerning this because Merida is a take charge of her own destiny kind of girl (much like Mulan and Pocahontas). Personally, I think Merida is a breath of fresh air. She is intelligent, independent, and fiercely loyal. This is definitely one Disney princess to be proud of.
Because of some actions of Merida’s she must go through a challenge and learn to reconnect with her mother. Through the movie, we see Merida learn about her traditions (which as any child will do- she scoffs at being told “stories”), about her family, and ultimately about herself as she learns that life is not just about changing things, but about taking what you have and using that strength to change your fate. In my opinion, this movie was one that definitely one that makes you realize the importance of family.
The soundtrack that accompanies the movie was released on June 19, 2012 and I downloaded it immediately. I had very high hopes for the soundtrack as I am a huge fan of Disney music. This soundtrack did not disappoint. From the energetic sounds of “Touch the sky” to bolder, stronger sounds of “I am Merida,” the music was beautiful and instantly takes you back to the film. Of course with the film being set in Scotland, the music was Scottish, or Celtic- using lots of bagpipes and the like to bring across the culture of the country as the music is being listened to. (Off Kilter anyone?).
If I had to rate this film, I would give it two thumbs up. My family and I have already seen it twice, and honestly want to see it again. A lot of people have compared the film to Tangled. Please don’t be mistaken. These films are entirely different in their stories and the strengths of the main characters. But don’t take my word for it. Take your family.. go see it for yourself.. And most of all.. “Change your fate”.
