BRAVE (2012) is pure cinema magic!

Just got back from finally seeing Brave, Pixar's latest offering, and I was thoroughly entertained. One of the year's best films by far. My friend Irene just saw it a few days ago and raved about it and we pretty much have the same taste in films. So I knew going in that the odds were in favor of Brave being pretty good. And boy it did not disappoint. Featuring some dazzling animation and some lovely Scottish ballads, this tale about the rebellious Merida (voiced by Kelly Macdonald) who refuses to bow down to tradition and be married to a suitable mate. Which puts her at odds with her strict mom Elinor (voiced wonderfully by Emma Thompson). Merida's dad, the jovial Fergus (voiced by Billy Connolly) is a lot more flexible. In fact he let Merida train with a cross bow at a very young age, which turns her into a pretty good archer. I mean this girl can sling arrows with the best of them. Yes, even Robin Hood. And Merida has hair to die for. Her long flowing red tresses are an eye popping visual treat. Along with her loyal steed Angus, Merida sets out to do things her way.

Look at all that glorious red hair

Things are pretty light and humorous until Merida makes a fateful decision that has a drastic impact on her and her family. I can't go into detail without spoiling the movie, but trust me, it's a doozy. Things come to a head with a fraught filled finale that will not disappoint. And call me sentimental, but it may get you a little teary-eyed. 

Fergus and Elinor

Brave was the most fun I had at the cinema this year since The Avengers. It's a really great film. And clocking in at a brisk 100 minutes, things never bog down or get slow. One of my favorite films of the summer. Heck one of my favorite films of the year. I liked it even more than Dark Knight Rises. Yep, it's that good. And I think this is the first film where I have heard so many awwwwwws from the audience. I lost count after about twenty.

Merida and Angus

****1/2 out of ***** stars

Merida shows the crowd how's it done!

Merida and her three younger brothers who manage to steal some scenes

in this movie

Seeing this guy brought back memories of William Wallace aka Braveheart

Take that Katniss