Although it takes its time getting there, “Brave” turns into a powerful story of transformation, as the young princess Merida (Kelly Macdonald) sets out to rescue her mother (Emma Thompson) from a witch’s spell that has turned her into a bear. And the queen’s husband, Fergus (Billy Connolly), absolutely loathes bears. Although “Brave” is satisfying and spirited and laced with humor, it doesn’t quite mark a return to form for Pixar following the digital house’s disappointing 12th feature, “Cars 2.” Still, a lot of heart has gone into this affair, which is rife with Celtic-inspired music and montages of the red-headed Merida traipsing across moors, climbing cliffs, riding horses, shooting her bow and arrows. When her mother (still in human form) announces that it’s time to consider suitors for her betrothal, Merida wants none of it. And when the child and the bear are off in the woods, looking to undo their curse, it’s the daughter who takes charge.
“Brave” shares its directing credits three ways: Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman and Steve Purcell, which may be another reason this doesn’t feel like your typical Pixar venture. But when Merida follows the little blue glow of the will-o’-the-wisps into the forest or tugs restlessly at a lock of hair, her purpose and poise becomes the film’s – and it catches fire.
