Pixar has made heroes of lamps, toys and rambunctious little fish. But believe it or not, never before have they had a lead female protagonist set off on a journey of her own.
That's all about to change: meet Merida. Voiced by Kelly MacDonald, she's a fiercely independent Scottish Princess who, in defying ancient customs that would pent her up in a boring royal life, triggers catastrophes that she must then reverse -- or else.
As per the synopsis, "In an attempt to set things right, Merida seeks out an eccentric old Wise Woman (Julie Walters) and is granted an ill-fated wish. Also figuring into Merida's quest -- and serving as comic relief -- are the kingdom's three lords: the enormous Lord MacGuffin (Kevin McKidd), the surly Lord Macintosh (Craig Ferguson), and the disagreeable Lord Dingwall (Robbie Coltrane)."
Beyond Mickey Mouse and that silly old bear Pooh, Disney's most iconic characters are its Princesses. Damsels in distress to various degrees, the company has moved over the years to make its ladies more heroic, from Pochantas to Mulan to a much wiser than natural Rapunsel. Now that Pixar is joining in with its own female warrior protagonist, the company full has come full circle.
The film hits theaters on June 22nd.