One of the most anticipated events in our household was the release of Disney/Pixar’s latest offering, Brave. Brave is an animated feature about a young girl who is coming into her own and dealing with the pressures to take her place in the world as her mother sees fit or choosing her own path as an independent woman. The movie is rated PG for “scary action and rude humor”. We saw it on opening night at the local drive-in theater. While not my favorite Disney flick, it was good, the kids loved it and it was entertaining. There were even a few lessons to be learned.
The PG rating surprised me and I had to look up why. OK, I suppose there were a few scary moments but nothing that would surpass the G rated Beauty and the Beast. There were also some mooning references and some bare tushies in a humorous situation which don’t even come close to touching the oddly dark, sexual undertones found in The Hunchback of Notre Dame, also rated G. I don’t see it as PG worthy but I am also, admittedly, not all that sensitive about such things so make your choice accordingly. The animation was, as usual, excellent and the acting well done.
The movie is set in Scotland and introduces a fiery red headed lass and her family, the quite proper queen, her less-than-so father and the three rapscallions she has as brothers. There are some noteworthy cultural and time period differences that are featured which make for interesting lessons such as the difference between boys and girls in that era, as well as the expectations put on those being groomed for leadership. For those studying geography this is a great way to start a unit on Scotland also. Ultimately, though, it is about the relationship between parents and children, especially that of mother/daughter, father/son. While the movie explores the mother/daughter connection, similar comparisons can be made for father/son.
All ages can relate to the conflict. Parents want what is best for their children so set down rules and expectations. Children want to forge their own way and make their own decisions regardless of the rules and expectations. Sometimes parents and children clash when these two paths diverge. The movie shows how both sides deal with this issue and how ultimately the bond that is family prevails regardless of the problems that arise along the way. It is a positive film, has an interesting plot, a few twists and turns and plenty of humor. Brave is a great family film and the perfect way to spend some family time together. In my opinion, the trailer does not do the movie justice.
