Many of us are familiar with the story of Rapunzel.  You  know the fairytale.  Young girl is trapped in tower, hidden from the world outside her.  Dashing young man comes and rescues her. Blah, blah, blah.

Disney has put a twist on the fairytale of the young girl stuck in her tower and striving to find independence. Though the story is simple and all the classic Disney components are present (beautiful young girl, strapping young lad, animal sidekick, evil older person, magical elements, romantic interest, obstacles, adventure, catchy music and lyrics, and a happy ending), I'd have to say that Tangled is not just your ordinary run of the mill love story.

The story opens with the king and queen and their happy kingdom. There's mention of a selfish old woman (Mother Gothel) who tries to hide a flower with magical powers so that she can stay young forever. The queen falls ill and drinks from the magic flower and thereby receives its magical healing qualities. The magical healing powers get transferred to Baby Rapunzel and Mother Gothel kidnaps her.

Fast forward 18 years later, and Rapunzel (Mandy Moore) has grown up knowing only the life Mother Gothel (Donna Murphy) has taught her. Sheltered from the outside world, Rapunzel seeks something greater. She wants to see and learn what life is like beyond the confines of her tower walls.

Mother Gothel uses the magical powers from Rapunzel's hair to maintain her youthful looks. Meanwhile, Flynn Ryder (Zachary Levi), a wanted bandit happens to find Rapunzel's tower and hides out there. To his surprise, he encounters a long-haired, frying pan toting Rapunzel.

What I loved about Tangled is that this this wasn't simply an in-your-face-girl-power-love-sucks-I-don't-need-a-man-to-rectify-my existence story, but more about Rapunzel's journey to finding her own independence, and her new self-awareness. She just happens to find love in the process of discovering this.

Though Mother Gothel's character gives the presence of a slightly evil, selfish older person and one who tries to keep Rapunzel to herself, there is something almost likable about her character. She's the kind of lady people love to hate. Rapunzel's and Mother Gothel's relationship is a reminder of many relationships where young adults try to assert their independence under the watchful eye of their parents. There's the idea of the parent trying to protect and shield their young ones (though Mother Gothel's motives are for her own benefit).

My friend, Artsy Teacher Mom and I took our three girls to see Tangled on the weekend. We were in awe of the animation and seeing the movie in 3-D was a treat for young viewers. It was really sweet to see my toddler reaching out to touch the flying lanterns. The chase scenes were spectacular.  I had to remind myself a few times that I was watching animated characters and not actual actors.

I can't wait for Tangled to come out on DVD so I can get it for Little One!