Merida rides in this concept art from Brave. All images courtesy of Pixar.

Kelly Macdonald (TV's BOARDWALK EMPIRE) has taken over the role of Princess Merida in Pixar's BRAVE, reports Variety. Originally Reese Witherspoon was cast as the rebellious royalty who dreams of becoming a world-class archer. Scheduling issues led to Witherspoon leaving the project.

The Irish actress Macdonald joins Emma Thompson, Craig Ferguson and Billy Connolly.

Pixar's first princess feature was originally titled BEAR AND THE BOW and was conceived and co-written by Brenda Chapman. The PRINCE OF EGYPT director was set to direct the film, but was replaced last fall by Mark Andrews (ONE MAN BAND).

The film is set to launch on June 22. 2012.

Merida ventures to The Stones.

Merida takes off through the fog.

The Castle at sunset.