DVD with Abe: Brave (Capsule Review)

Brave
Directed by Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, and Steve Purcell
Released June 22, 2012 / DVD November 13, 2012

Pixar has a certain reputation, having established itself as extraordinarily competent and innovative in the field of animation over the past seventeen years. This particular feature was highly anticipated, with trailers released well in advance of its arrival in theatres and a distinctly cultural approach to its storyline. Like most of the animation studio’s previous offerings, “Brave” is an enticing, kid-friendly film that’s appropriate for the entire family and manages to offer an engaging spin on a familiar family framework.

Inserting magic into animated movies is hardly uncommon, and the presence of witches, spells, and other such things feel relatively natural in this story. One Scottish princess’ desperate efforts to convince her mother that a forced betrothal to the oldest son of another house in the kingdom isn’t her fate turns into an enchanting tale of a spell gone wrong. Some childish comedic antics ensue, of course, but, like other Pixar and Disney films before it, there’s a maturity to the story that keeps it grounded. Its style and score enhance the enchantment, and this Best Animated Feature Oscar contender serves a charming and enduring addition to the Pixar vault.

B+