Judy Thorburn's Movie Reviews
Shrek II
- Details
- Category: Judy Thorburn
- Published on 24 November 2008
- Written by Judy Thorburn
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FUN FILLED “SHREK 2” IS A MAGICAL MOVIE GEM
Once upon a time in the not too distant past, an ugly, but loveable big green ogre named Shrek made Dreamworks a very happy movie studio. That was three years ago, in the summer of 2001 when audiences everywhere first fell in love with that big lug and turned the computer animated comedy into a box office smash. And, the to top it off the Academy Awards honored the film with an Oscar for Best Animated Feature, the first recipient in that new category. So of course, a sequel had to be in the works in hopes of striking gold with moviegoers the second time around. Well, Dreamworks execs should be able to rest easy, since the sequel of the original Shrek, with the UNoriginal title, Shrek 2, looks to be another winner and major moneymaker.
Audiences of all ages who enjoyed meeting Shrek and the assortment of characters in the original story are in for another hilarious romp that includes some new characters voiced by famous stars. But, how does it compare with the first film? This chapter is just as much a delight, and even funnier with rapid-fire sight gags, puns, and moments that will have you in stitches. Plus, we get to see some awesome computer graphic imagery, a neat little story, and a great cast of lively characters that result in a very entertaining, family friendly sequel. It was obvious as to why everyone at the preview screening I attended in New York City was constantly roaring with laughter and having a great time.
Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz are back as Shrek and his new bride, Princess Fiona in a tale that begins where we left off. It starts with the newlyweds returning from their honeymoon where not only do they find Donkey (Eddie Murphy, at his best) at their swamp abode, but also a knock on the door with an invitation to return to the Kingdom of Far Far Away where Fiona’s parents, King Harold (John Cleese) and Queen Lillian (Julie Andrews) are eager to meet their new son in law. Of course, Donkey insists on tagging along for the ride, which, knowing his goofy attitude and silly wit, adds much humor to the journey. But, that is just the beginning of this fairy tale adventure. There’s trouble waiting when the royals feast their eyes on this less than pretty couple.
The King and Queen are appalled at seeing that their once beautiful daughter had decided to marry Shrek and choose to stay an ogre. But, that doesn’t compare to the anger of the manipulative Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders of Absolutely Fabulous fame) who insists that her son, Prince Charming was meant to kiss Fiona and then live happily ever after as heir to the kingdom. So, she devises a plan which includes threatening the King to help in her evil scheme, who in turn enlists an assassin in the form of Puss-In-Boots (marvelously voiced by Antonio Banderas), a sword-wielding, Spanish accented kitty who knows his real secret weapon is his huge black eyes. And boy, can he use them. I still laugh out loud just thinking about that sad look that would melt even his strongest foe. The visual is priceless, unforgettable, and nearly stole the film.
And, there are so many cleverly written moments in this magical fairy tale world mixed with pop culture references at every turn. I am sure I missed a few and would have to see it again to catch them all. From the E Channel’s Joan Rivers announcing arrivals on the red carpet to classic live action movies such as From Here to Eternity to Mission Impossible, everything is fair game for spoof. Fairy tale characters such as The Gingerbread Man, Pinocchio, the Three Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood, the Wolf, and the Three Blind Mice among others pop up in funny sequences. And, the Kingdom of Far Far Away is in itself a spoof of Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive. One example is the mansions lined up on the exclusive streets have entrance signs that say they are the home of Cinderella or Rapunzel. It would be a sin to give any more away. But, I must add, Larry King has a cameo as the voice of a gender bender bartender who is more than a hoot, and guaranteed to cause plenty of chuckles. You have to see it to fully enjoy the experience.
Some of the jokes may go over the heads of the younger crowd, but there are enough goodies in this sweet adventure to please anyone of every age who wants to be entertained. Shrek is smart and charming and never sinks to crude humor, a problem with so many comedies these days. The computer graphics are beautiful and undeniably realistic with attention to every detail in textures, movements, and facial expressions and emotions. You can actually tell what material some character is wearing in close-ups. How awesome!
You have to be a real life ogre not to have a magical time with Shrek 2. And, this follow up continues to instill the wonderful message about the true meaning of beauty. If you are a kid of any age, make that trek to Shrek 2. You will be happy you did.