Disney Princess Merida from Brave

Disney Princess Merida is the lead character in the upcoming Disney/Pixar movie "Brave," to be released in June 2012. A courageous and skilled archer who is determined to make her own path in life, Princess Merida is granted an "ill-fated wish" by a witch and then must discover true bravery to undo a curse. Princess Merida's starring role in the film marks the first time a Pixar movie has featured a female protagonist. She will join the line of other popular Disney Princesses, such as Snow White, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Belle, Tiana, and all the others.

(Image of Princess Merida © 2011 Disney/Pixar)

Film is first Pixar movie with a female lead

"Brave" is Pixar's 13th feature-length movie, but this the animation studio's first fairy tale, first movie with a female protagonist and was also supposed to be the first directed by a woman, Brenda Chapman. But Chapman was replaced midway through the movie by Mark Andrews. "Entertainment Weekly" has reported that Disney plans to credit both directors in the final film.

The movie is set in the Scottish Highlands, where Princess Merida (Kelly Macdonald) lives with her father, King Fergus (Billy Connolly) and her mother, Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson). Merida is a head-strong young woman who is known for her skill as an archer. When she defies an ancient custom and brings anger and turmoil to the kingdom, she finds an old witch who grants her an "ill-fated wish." Princess Merida must then use her skills to discover the true meaning of bravery and save the kingdom from an evil curse.

Image Credit: Disney-Pixar

Actress is from Scotland

Kelly Macdonald is the Scottish-born actress who serves as the voice of Princess Merida in the Disney/Pixar film "Brave." Reese Witherspoon was originally announced as the voice of the character, but later had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts.

Macdonald's acting career started when she won an open audition for the role as Diane in the 1996 movie "Trainspotting," which starred Ewan McGregor. Her TV career has included high-profile roles in two BBC dramas, including "The Girl in the Cafe," for which she won an Emmy and was nominated for a Golden Globe.

Other roles have included the scullery maid Evangeline in "Nanny McPhee," a supporting role in the Academy Award-winning "No Country for Old Men," and the Grey Lady in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2."

(Photo credit: Pixar Wiki)

Little girls will love this 11-inch Princess Merida doll wearing her Adventure Dress. The figure has bendable arms and legs and the archery glove, shoes, bows and arrows are also removable.