I’ve been over the moon excited to see the new Disney/Pixar movie, “Brave,” since I saw the teaser trailer months ago, for two reasons:

1. I love Disney movies. A true product of the Disney revolution, I grew up watching animated movies, pretty much, from day one. And while I still consider “The Lion King,” to be one of my favorite movies (and soundtracks) to date, I have since fallen in love with everything Disney/Pixar touches. Did you see “Toy Story 3?” Tears, I tell ya. Tears.

2. I love Gingers. Being a freckle-faced hustler myself, I’ve long been a fan of the fiery, headstrong mermaid that rebelled against tradition and followed her heart. And while I feel like I’m cheating on my main girl Ariel just a bit, I wholeheartedly support another, even more aesthetically accurate, ginger princess.

The fact that the resemblance between myself and Princess Merida of “Brave” is uncanny (my aunt has been calling me Merida for weeks) is just a plus.

Last Sunday, I had the chance to see “my movie” in theaters. And while I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of the flick – about a rambunctious Scottish Princess who seeks to change her fate, no matter the cost – I continue to be perturbed about the stereotypes this ginger heroine supports.

I get it. We’re sassy. A tad opinionated. Maybe a bit loud.

But between Disney/Pixar’s portrayal of ginger characters (also see: “Finding Nemo,” “Toy Story 2,” “The Incredibles,”) – and the assertion that gingers don’t have souls (thanks, “South Park”) – society is giving me, and my fellow carrot tops, MAD ginger problems.

Don’t get me wrong. “Brave,” is a great movie. In true Disney/Pixar fashion, it’s equal parts heartfelt and hilarious (the latter being the result of casting Craig Ferguson and Robbie Coltrane as Lords MacIntosh and Dingwall, respectively). And Merida is a lead to be proud off. She’s fiery and fun, adventurous and loyal – if not a bit impulsive.

I’m proud to say I possess these qualities as well. But is it because I have red hair? I’m not sure I’m convinced.

Keegan Prosser is a staff writer with the Bellevue Reporter. She can be contacted at 425-453-4602 or kprosser@bellevuereporter.com