Brave, the latest movie offering from Pixar, failed to endear itself to many journalists and reputable movie reviewers. It is a big letdown to most. We are all used to Pixar's bravery in using unconventional lead characters. If we use this kind of barometer, then we will surely be disappointed.
Instead, I urge you to erase all expectations and prejudices when you watch Brave. Don't think of Disney's influence in the movie. Don't start expecting a movie that is better than Toy Story or The Incredibles. Don't fear the departure of the first director which may leave the movie without a concised thematic point. Then, you have a fair chance of enjoying this movie. And there are many reasons to enjoy this movie. Audience are treated to Scotland's highlands majestic landscapes throughout the movie. Merida's character deviates from the usual Disney princesses. She can actually live without a man in her life and the movie can afford to end without a hint of romantic involvement. Imagine that!
This movie narrates the story of Merida, who is the rebellious daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor, leaders of the Scottish Clans. Merida grew up independent, outgoing and great in archery, much to her mom's dismay. But the conflict spiraled when Queen Elinor pushes her daughter to marry one of her 3 suitors. Failing to communicate her wish to remain unmarried, Merida falls trap to getting a dangerous potion from a witch in the woods. It is up to Merida to save her mother to a fate worse than death.
Although I enjoyed every second of the movie, I have to admit that the movie suffers from linearity that is absent from their previous blockbusters. I can't help but share the worry of most Pixar fans that Disney's fingers are dipping into the brave choices of Pixar's unorthodox heroines. One only has to be reminded of the cancellation of Newt, the last two creatures on earth forced to mate to continue their species, to know that we would expect less adventurous animation movie from Pixar from hereon.
Instead, I urge you to erase all expectations and prejudices when you watch Brave. Don't think of Disney's influence in the movie. Don't start expecting a movie that is better than Toy Story or The Incredibles. Don't fear the departure of the first director which may leave the movie without a concised thematic point. Then, you have a fair chance of enjoying this movie. And there are many reasons to enjoy this movie. Audience are treated to Scotland's highlands majestic landscapes throughout the movie. Merida's character deviates from the usual Disney princesses. She can actually live without a man in her life and the movie can afford to end without a hint of romantic involvement. Imagine that! This movie narrates the story of Merida, who is the rebellious daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor, leaders of the Scottish Clans. Merida grew up independent, outgoing and great in archery, much to her mom's dismay. But the conflict spiraled when Queen Elinor pushes her daughter to marry one of her 3 suitors. Failing to communicate her wish to remain unmarried, Merida falls trap to getting a dangerous potion from a witch in the woods. It is up to Merida to save her mother to a fate worse than death.
Although I enjoyed every second of the movie, I have to admit that the movie suffers from linearity that is absent from their previous blockbusters. I can't help but share the worry of most Pixar fans that Disney's fingers are dipping into the brave choices of Pixar's unorthodox heroines. One only has to be reminded of the cancellation of Newt, the last two creatures on earth forced to mate to continue their species, to know that we would expect less adventurous animation movie from Pixar from hereon.
Watched this last night with my daughter and she was "kinda" behaved at first which am not sure if it was the movie itself that was the culprit or the popcorn that she ate all by herself. She just turned 5 by the way ;o)
ReplyDeleteI must agree that the movie in itself had that Disney feel to it. And because of that formula, it kinda lost its usual Pixar edge of being unconventional.