A Delightful Fairy Tale

Rating: 7/10 (21 November 2007)

Shrek (2001, Dir. Andrew Adamson & Vicky Jenson)
When a green ogre called Shrek discovers his swamp has been 'swamped' with all sorts of fairytale creatures, by the scheming Lord Farquaad. With a very loud donkey by his side, Shrek sets out to 'persuade' Farquaad to give his swamp back. Instead a deal is made. Farquaad, who wants to become the King, sends Shrek to rescue Princess Fiona, who is waiting for her one true love. But once they head back Fiona, it starts to become apparent that not only do Shrek like Fiona, but Fiona is keeping something secret.
What the you call this movie 'Shrek'? Is it a spoof? Is it Homage? Well, whatever is it, it's very enjoyable. Everything about the film seems perfectly crafted. The film has a large number of songs, which have been carefully chosen and suit the atmosphere at that point. The story is cleverly well written and the characters are enjoyable. The right voice talents have been brought together with a cast of characters which can really be stretched out. It's the animation which really brings his film to life though. In 2001, the animation was very impressive and still looks a treat. It doesn't look too fake and doesn't try to make it too realistic. There is so much detail in the picture which shows that the animators really spent hours working on it. 'Shrek' will last for a long time with generations of families enjoying this soon to be classic.
"Chicks love that romantic crap." - Donkey (Eddie Murphy)