10 Underrated Pixar Characters Who Were Feminist Heroines

Regal blue tang Dory dives all in the second she meets panicked father Marlin and hears about his missing son. Marlin displays little tolerance for the bubbly wanderer. Instead of brushing him off, Dory volunteers her time and energy to help in locating the title clownfish. Marlin soon realizes he must rely on a guide with short-term memory loss as they wade their way towards 42 Wallaby Way.

Dotty Dory might appear absent-minded but it's hard to find a character who matches her perseverance and optimism in their search for Nemo. Not every female film character jumps on the tops of jellyfishes or just keeps swimming to address a humongous whale. Both instances steer cautious Marlin closer to Nemo in exhilarating moments.

Marlin learns to place his trust in her decisions though they seem as zany as Dory herself. Her secret talents and fearlessness are key in leading Marlin straight to his son. Dory isn't simply the navigator of the expedition but a role model for Marlin who opens up with each tempest that comes along to bring them down. Practical Marlin feeds off the spontaneous nature of Dory and their eccentric bond spawns admirable teamwork.

It's a refreshing friendship between the opposite sexes in the Pixar franchise. Marlin lives to tell his story and it wouldn't have occurred in the same exciting manner without his intrepid female navigator.