Reese Witherspoon drops out of Pixar's Brave; new concept art revealed

I don't think we've covered anything regarding Pixar's first fairy tale foray, Brave, since it's name was changed from The Bear and the Bow. Already set with a June 22nd, 2012 release date, at that point it'll be Pixar's first original work in three years. Why's that a big deal? Eh, they just don't do that many sequels. So news on the film hasn't been all that plentiful, other than the flap over original director Brenda Chapman being replaced by Pixar fave, Mark Andrews. Entertainment Weekly suggests now that Chapman will likely receive a co-directing credit now, to go along with her writing credit. They also have some further info on casting, and some cool concept art for the film.

The story takes place in the Scottish highlands, where Princess Merida longs to be an accomplished archer. One day she “defies a sacred custom of the land, and inadvertantly brings turmoil to the kingdom.” In an effort to fix things, she goes to an old Wise Woman, and is granted an ill-fated wish.

Reese Witherspoon had been attached to lend her voice to the primary role of Princess Merida, but now Entertainment Weekly confirms that she had to drop out due to scheduling. So she'll be replaced by the equally awesome Kelly MacDonald(Finding Neverland). Others lending their voices to the fantasy pic include Billy Connolly as King Fergus and Emma Thompson as the Queen. Julie Walters, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson, John Ratzenberger and Robbie Coltrane are the other confirmed voices. One of EW's concept shots can be seen above, but be sure to check out the rest below. Looks like it could be another great one!