Animated fairy tale offers modern touches.

Rating: 8/10 (2 June 2001)

Although falling short of the majesty of "Toy Story," Shrek" does an admirable job in the animated family entertainment department. A likeable ogre, a talking donkey and a host of other familiar fairy-tale characters populate the screen in a semi-charming story that serves up both humor and pathos. Jabs at Disneyland and a very funny send-up of Robin Hood and his merry men are among the film highlights. I especially liked Eddie Murphy (the donkey) and his rendition of the old Monkees' hit, "I'm a Believer," (at movie's end). If you wonder how many people it takes to make a film like Shrek, sit through the credits. You'll go through four complete songs before the names stop rolling.