Merida's Brave Brothers: A Surprising Twist in the Classic Disney Formula

Savvy Sassy Spoiler Alert: As I watched Brave, I couldn't help but wait for the handsome love interest to make an appearance and win the heart of Princess Merida. I thought for sure that some dashing young lad would come along and either assist her on her quest or distract her from it. But what I got was a refreshing twist on the classic Disney princess formula.

This movie has a wonderful message about listening and respecting one another, no matter how different you may be. And don't worry, boys - there's plenty in this movie for you too! The fight scenes are pretty realistic and rough, and my 5-year-old son got a bit scared and clung to my arm tightly.

As a mom of a seven-year-old girl, I can already see how the mother-daughter relationship is a tricky one. And I thought the filmmakers did a great job of exploring this complex dynamic. The epic struggle between parents letting go and children fighting for their independence is at the heart of this story - a lesson that many people will relate to, not just moms and daughters but any parent-child relationship.

At its core, Brave is a Mother-Daughter story. And it's not just Merida who's a bit different - the story itself is unique compared to other Disney princess movies. Maybe it's the fiery spirit in her hair, whatever - I was rather excited about this movie because I knew that Merida, the new Disney Princess, was going to be different.

This morning, my family and I had the opportunity to attend an advanced screening of Brave at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. And let me tell you - it's a must-see! Congratulations to KJ and Debbie, who both won the adorable Princess Merida dolls as part of our special advance screening event.

Merida brave brothers