The novelty's worn off a bit, but this is still pretty good

Rating: 7/10 (24 May 2004)

The novelty of "Shrek" has worn off a bit this time, but "Shrek 2" still delivers plenty of laughs. And I'm thrilled that Disney still gets skewered. I don't understand why people feel those animated films shouldn't be ridiculed.
"Shrek 2" takes a while to get cranking - maybe we're spoiled because the original was a clever send-up from the beginning. The opening's a bit too mellow this time. But once Puss-in-Boots (voiced wonderfully by Antonio Banderas) appears on the scene, "Shrek 2" turns into a thrilling story.
Kids will no doubt love the slapstick humor and fart jokes, but there's plenty in "Shrek 2" to keep adults laughing, too. Granted, even some older teens might not get some of the post-modern references - there are riffs on "From Here to Eternity," "Flashdance" (it's very funny), "The Fabulous Baker Boys," "Ghostbusters" and "Alien." The film pokes fun of Disney's "Beauty and the Beast" and even takes shots at Disney World's penchant for spotless sidewalks and streets. And just see what happens to the Little Mermaid!
There are some priceless moments in this film. The scene where Pinocchio's truth is revealed is hysterically funny and there's some mild adult humor tossed in for good measure in a scene involving three maidens.

The film occasionally strains when it tries being a bit too clever and the Fairy Godmother and Prince Charming aren't as funny as they could be.
But at a time when Disney churns out tiresome animated films, it's good to know there's "Shrek 2" not only giving Disney a well-deserved send-up, but also providing solid animated entertainment that doesn't insult the intelligence of adults.