Every once in awhile, a movie comes along that truly pulls at my heartstrings.  Granted, I'm a bit of a softie at any time, so I get a bit misty-eyed during more movies than I care to admit, but it really is the rare film that both entertains me and touches my heart.  And when that movie is one I can share with my 4-year-old daughter Sadie, well, it doesn't really get much better than that.  I'm absolutely delighted to report that Disney/Pixar's Brave, which opens in theaters everywhere on June 22nd, is precisely that type of movie.  Sadie and I were lucky enough to get a sneak peek at the movie during two very special NYC screenings, and we loved it so much that we have plans to see it for a third time next week!

In case you missed the previews for this fabulous flick, here's the scoop.  Since ancient times, stories of epic battles and mystical legends have been passed through the generations across the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland.  In Brave, a new tale joins the lore when the courageous Merida (voiced by Kelly Macdonald) confronts tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts.

Merida is a skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus (voiced by Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voiced by Emma Thompson).  Determined to carve her own path in life, and much to the dismay of her mother, Merida defies the age-old custom of having the lords of the land compete for her hand in marriage, and in so doing inadvertently unleashes chaos and fury in the kingdom.  When Merida turns to an eccentric old witch for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish that transforms both her life and her relationship with her mother.  The ensuing peril forces Merida to discover the meaning of true bravery in order to undo the witch's beastly curse before it's too late.

Set in ancient Scotland, Brave includes images of this iconic country's rolling heather-clad hills and the imposing peaks of the Scottish Highlands.  I was lucky enough to explore Scotland's Highlands in my younger days, and I have fond memories of the area's lush landscape, enchanting lochs, magical castles and stunning scenery.  Brave brought these memories back in all their glory, and left me longing for a return visit to one of the most charming countries I've ever visited (but perhaps I'll skip the haggis tasting this time around!).  Truly, the movie is not just a fabulous story with a spunky heroine; it's also a love letter to Scotland, and one you'll want to read again and again.

A grand adventure full of heart, memorable characters (Sadie and I are still chuckling over Merida's three baby brothers) and signature Pixar humor that will appeal to kids and adults alike, Brave is a "must-see" summer movie.  The film is beautifully animated, smartly written, and introduces a heroine who breaks the traditional princess mold in an extremely refreshing way.  Indeed, the fiercely independent Merida is a princess any mother would be proud to call her daughter.  She's clever, compassionate, inventive, and, of course, courageous.  Brave eloquently and beautifully conveys precisely the message I want to impart to my daughter; namely, that, with hard work, perseverance and a healthy dose of moxie, she can do anything to which she sets her mind. 

Brave takes aim at theaters on June 22nd, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D in select theaters.  For more information, visit Brave's official website.   And if, like me, Brave leaves you hankering for a jaunt to Scotland, take a peek at the Visit Scotland website for Brave-inspired itineraries and experiences to inspire your journey.