I just had the opportunity to pre-screen the movie Brave with my 6-year-old daughter. It was a fabulous experience for both of us. I’m a big fan of Disney Pixar and Brave did not disappoint, continuing in the tradition of movies that entertain young and old. My daughter loved the animation, action and heartwarming bond depicted between a mother and daughter. I loved all this, but was also deeply touched by the wonderful messages the movie delivered and amused by the humor that Pixar so wonderfully adds to its movies.

Here is a brief synopsis of the movie:

Since ancient times, stories of epic battles and mystical legends have been passed through the generations across the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland. From Disney and Pixar, a new tale joins the lore when the courageous Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) confronts tradition and challenges destiny to change her fate.

"Brave" follows the heroic journey of Merida, a skilled archer and headstrong daughter of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson). Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the unruly and uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin (voice of Kevin McKidd), surly Lord Macintosh (voice of Craig Ferguson) and cantankerous Lord Dingwall (voice of Robbie Coltrane). Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric Witch (voice of Julie Walters) for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to harness all of her skills and resources – including her clever and mischievous triplet brothers – to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, discovering the meaning of true bravery.

It’s the multi-level story depiction that brings all ages together to enjoy a movie like Brave. As we sat in the theater, before the movie started, I noticed the broad range of ages around us. From toddlers to grandmas, the audience members watched with enthusiasm. I heard roars of laughter throughout and I saw several tears wiped away towards the end of the movie. I too wiped a tear away as the movie closed on a beautiful and honest moment of bonding between a mother and daughter. And I enjoyed my moment of bonding with my own daughter as we were dazzled by incredible animation and moved by a truly inspiring movie that everyone will love!