Yeah, there are 117 reviews of this movie already, but I know everyone has been dying to hear my take on it.
I'd begin by saying you should see Shrek before this one, but I saw Shrek 2 first (and still haven't seen the first one). Based on the bits and pieces I saw of the first one, the animation has improved for the sequel. There's not much in the way of plot here. Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) are happily married, and the prince (Rupert Everett) who was supposed to save Fiona wants revenge. And Fiona's parents aren't too happy that their daughter is now an ogre and is married to an ogre. That's basically it.
I doubt anyone goes into a movie like this expecting a life-changing story. Sometimes you just need to laugh, and Shrek 2 delivers a lot of laughs. There are a lot of pop culture references that the kids probably won't get, but adults will get a kick out of. That's not to say that youngsters won't enjoy this, though, because they will. 'Tis a film for all ages.
Both the writer and director of Shrek returned for this one, as did the main characters: Shrek and Fiona (obviously), and Donkey (Eddie Murphy), the annoying (to Shrek) yet loveable (to the audience) sidekick. Donkey gets some competition in his quest to be the best sidekick from Puss-in-Boots (Antonio Banderas), an adorable sword-wielding feline. Also along for the ride are Prince Charming (Rupert Everett), the Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders), and Fiona's parents (John Cleese and Julie Andrews). The voice talent in this movie is great.
The DVD includes some nifty special features. Lots of games, commentary from the filmmakers, an amusing goofs section, a meet the cast feature, and a few other things. One extra that stands out is an interactive Shrek version of American Idol, complete with performances by the characters. You even get to vote for who you want to win. For those who care, the movie has English, Spanish, and French audio tracks and subtitles.
Shrek 2 is not the best movie of the year, but it's one of the most fun. And now that it's out on DVD, you don't have to worry about paying a kid to go to the theatre with you so you don't look silly.
Shrek 2 is rated PG for some crude humor, a brief substance reference and some suggestive content.
Oh, and the "substance reference" thing? Puss-in-Boots carries catnip. And who says the MPAA has issues?
Part of the Lean-n-Mean III W/O
Recommended:
Yes
Viewing Format: DVD
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
