Fourth Shrek Film Is Enjoyable But Undistinguished Animated Fare

Rating: 5/10 (12 July 2010)

Bored with his family life Shrek yearns for the time when he was a fearsome ogre, and signs an ill-advised deal with Rumpelstiltskin to get his old life back for a day. But this changes history, makes Rumpelstiltskin the King of Far Far Away, and Shrek must figure out how to turn back time and win his true love Fiona's heart all over again.
The fourth movie in the Shrek series is affable, pleasant and as beautifully animated as the previous films. I like the way these movies are slightly less wholesome than Pixar's, with plenty of bodily functions and more neurotic characters, and the kingdom of Far Far Away is always a funny place to visit. However, as always with sequels, there is a law of diminishing returns. The movie has some funny twists, like making Puss In Boots a big bloated fatso, and the romantic theme has plenty of heart, but it's just not as much fun as the original picture. The voice cast all return and enjoy themselves, and as usual Murphy steals the show as the lovable Donkey. There's also a fine score by series composer Harry Gregson-Williams and as in the previous films some amusing pop song interludes mixed in - notably Top Of The World by The Carpenters and For Once In My Life by Stevie Wonder. A good movie for kids and undiscerning animation enthusiasts, but I think this particular fairy tale might come to an end now. Shot in digital 3D with a big 2.35:1 aspect ratio for an animated feature; this review is of the conventional print since I don't think I believe in all that 3D gimmickry.