Brave

| 2012

Directed by: Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, Steve Purcell

Main Plot

Brave follows the story of Merida, a spirited and headstrong young princess in medieval Scotland. Defying tradition and the expectations placed upon her as a royal, she seeks to carve her own path in life, particularly in her desire to become a skilled archer. When her refusal to accept an arranged marriage leads to a confrontation with her mother, Queen Elinor, Merida makes a reckless decision to seek help from a mysterious witch. In a twist of fate, her wish results in a curse that transforms her mother into a bear. As Merida embarks on a quest to reverse the spell, she must confront her own actions and learn the importance of understanding and reconciliation. The journey takes them through the wild Scottish landscape, filled with challenges and adventures, ultimately leading to a deeper bond between mother and daughter.

Characters

  • Kelly Macdonald voices Merida, a skilled archer and princess who defies tradition to carve her own path, sparking a chain of events that challenge her kingdom's fate.
  • Billy Connolly voices King Fergus, the boisterous and protective father of Merida, whose actions and decisions significantly impact the storyline and family dynamics.
  • Queen Elinor, voiced by Emma Thompson, is the mother of Princess Merida. She plays a crucial role in guiding and influencing Merida's journey and decisions.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Brave, the main conflict reaches resolution as Merida confronts the consequences of her actions after a disastrous spell intended to change her mother Elinor. The curse transforms Elinor into a bear, leading to a series of challenges that test their relationship. The climax occurs when Merida realizes that to break the curse, she must mend the bond with her mother. In a pivotal moment, Merida and Elinor face the monstrous Mor'du, a bear cursed by his own greed. By working together, they defeat Mor'du, symbolizing the strength of their renewed connection. The final act of bravery comes when Merida courageously defends her mother, showcasing her growth from a rebellious daughter to a responsible individual. As the curse is lifted, Elinor returns to her human form, and the bond between mother and daughter is strengthened. The film concludes with Merida embracing her identity and the importance of family, emphasizing themes of courage, understanding, and reconciliation. The resolution of the conflict reinforces the narrative's message about the value of communication and acceptance within familial relationships, ultimately leading to a harmonious conclusion for both characters.

Mark Andrews Brenda Chapman Steve Purcell Animation Action Adventure Kelly Macdonald Billy Connolly Emma Thompson