Shrek 2 - A Movie Review

There’s not enough time. We make our final wish at midnight.

Shrek 2 is a 2004 sequel. Upon request, Fiona takes Shrek to the castle to meet her royal parents. Not met with gratitude, Shrek considers changing out of his ogre ways to make Fiona happy. On an expedition, the kingdom learns that fairy tales don’t have to go by the book.

Shrek was so popular that before production was completed for the first film, filmmakers were already planning Shrek 2. I agree that Shrek 2 is the best of the franchise. It’s the highest-grossing movie of 2004. The moral of Shrek is important. Be happy with yourself no matter what anyone says.

All of the characters return from the first Shrek film. Shrek contains an assortment of memorable characters, most of who have appeared in fables. Donkey has always been one of my favorites. Despite how he annoys him so much, Shrek and Donkey have a strong friendship.

Shrek and Fiona’s relationship has grown. Their love is so strong. They would do anything for each other. There is more to Shrek than his ogre-like qualities. I love how the writers enforce that. He is sensitive and thinks about others before himself.

I don’t know if anybody has ever talked about this moment, but following an argument between Shrek and Fiona where it’s so bad that one storms out of the room, they’re still seen sleeping in bed together later that night. No matter how mad they are, without seeing them apologize, they still love each other.

The entire voice cast did an amazing job, changing their vocals into something new - like the gingerbread man. Some improvised lines made it into the final film. Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, and Eddie Murphy are at their best as the trio.

John Cleese and Julie Andrews are terrific as Fiona’s royal parents. The pair actually recorded their lines together which is a rarity in the animated film world. The chaotic family dinner sequence is a highlight as the food is thrown around the table.

New characters are introduced. Antonio Bandaras is unforgettable as Puss in Boots. His gig-eyed guilt look never gets old. Prince Charming (Rupert Everett) always makes me laugh with his flamboyant personality.

The Fairy God Mother is not your typical fairytale character preferring things by the book. Depending on how you feel about her, it's Jennifer Saunders who brings out the best vocal performance as the intimidating woman. Did you know that Saunders did her own singing for the movie?

Animation has come a long way in Shrek. To move Shrek’s face, the character occupied 218 CGI muscles. Give a hand to the animators who spent long incredulous hours putting this film together.

There are so many blink-and-you-miss-it moments in the Shrek films that on any watch, it’s like watching it for the first time. That’s what makes Shrek so unique from other films. Filmmakers had fun with the film, researching fables and subtle character actions.

Andrew Adamson hit the mark with Shrek 2, providing a reflective moral. Shrek 2 is the best example for audiences, particularly younger kids, that fairy tales don’t have to go according to plan.

He changed the ending believing that the decision made in the climax is what Shrek is about. This Thanksgiving, take the time to reflect on what you like most about yourself. If someone else isn’t happy, what should you care?

Shrek 2 ends with another dance party that you don’t want to miss. Whenever it’s on, I always watch Shrek 2.