Brave – New Concept Art Released by Pixar

Conceived as it’s first foray into Fairy Tales, Pixar’s next release is set in the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland and features a female protagonist (also a first for Pixar). “Brave” is the grand adventure of Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald), a skilled archer who confronts tradition, destiny and the fiercest of beasts to discover the true meaning of courage. Directed by Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman, and produced by Katherine Sarafian, the film also features the voices of Emma Thompson, Billy Connolly, Julie Walters, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson and Robbie Coltrane.

These three pieces of concept art were just released and they certainly seem to be setting a dark mood for the film. But then that’s what I thought about Finding Nemo’s concept art and that’s one of my favorite Pixar films. What do you think?

Originally titled “The Bear and the Bow”, “Brave” not only had a name change, but a new director (although the original director Chapman will continue to get screen credit). Currently targeted to hit theaters on June 22, 2012, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters. Man that’s more than a year away. I hate waiting for Pixar goodness.