Nothing memorable, but enjoyable nonetheless

Rating: 7/10 (27 December 2011)

Sure, I can understand why DreamWorks would make a full-length movie from one of Shrek's most beloved characters, but then why does Puss in Boots feel like nothing more but a spin-off, instead of a full-fledged animation film?
Well, first of all, the style is exactly the same as the Shrek-movies. Of course, it would've been weird to see Puss in a completely different animation-style, but copying literally every single detail that made the Shrek-franchise so recognizing? That's just lazy. There's nothing wrong with the animation, it's crispy and the 3D-effects are nicely done, but it doesn't feel as fresh as it did when the first two Shreks were released in theaters.
Second of all, the story isn't that interesting. It explains the origins of Puss in less than 10 minutes and then kicks off with another Shrek- like adventure. Nothing new on the horizon. And when Puss and friends do finally discover something truly magical, there is only a few seconds of aw before the adventure continues like it always did. The movie references a lot of fairy tales, but never does something interesting with it. However, I am glad that director Chris Miller chose not to overuse this trick like he did in Shrek the Third. It's more balanced this way, though a bit dull since it has been done many times before by the Shrek-films.
I may sound a little negative, but I have to admit that I did have a good time watching this movie. Like I said, the animation is very pretty. I can't say it's a huge improvement over Shrek Forever After, but looks good nonetheless. Besides the animation, the jokes are also pretty well done. The timing is good and Humpty Dumpty (an old sidekick of Puss who has a major role in this movie) has some nice one-liners, delivered by the always enjoyable Zach Galifianakis. Talking about voice-acting, Antonio Banderes once again delivers a fine performance as the Puss in Boots. He doesn't have anything new to do, but I don't think it was necessary, since his voice-acting is so refined. Salma Hayak brings the goods as the voice of the attracting Kitty Softpaws, her voice-acting is as well-chosen as it is predictable.
In the end, Puss in Boots doesn't add anything new to the Shrek- franchise, let alone the genre. But it entertains and kids will love it, so if you don't know what to do on a rainy Sunday, give Puss in Boots a try. It won't disappoint.