Shrek (2001)
Raiting: 
8 /10
Genre: Animation
Director: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson
Stars: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz
Country: United States
Release date: 18 May 2001
Length: 90 minutes
The 2001 animated film "Shrek", directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson, is a subversive fairy tale that turns the genre on its head with its irreverent humor and heartwarming story. It follows the adventures of Shrek, a grumpy ogre who loves the solitude of his swamp, which is suddenly invaded by a multitude of fairy tale creatures banished by the diminutive and vain Lord Farquaad.
Wanting to reclaim the privacy of his swamp, Shrek makes a deal with Farquaad to rescue Princess Fiona, who is locked away in a dragon-guarded castle, in exchange for the deed to his land. Shrek sets out on his quest with an overly talkative Donkey, who quickly becomes his friend. Their journey is filled with humor and unexpected camaraderie, as they face various challenges and Shrek begins to show there's more to him than the gruff exterior of an ogre.
Upon rescuing Fiona, Shrek is taken aback as she is not the typical damsel in distress and possesses her own strong-willed personality. As they make their way back to Farquaad, Shrek and Fiona find themselves drawn to each other, sharing personal moments and revealing their vulnerabilities. However, Fiona harbors a secret—each night she turns into an ogre, a spell that can only be broken by true love's first kiss.
The journey back is fraught with both danger and blossoming affection, but Fiona's secret keeps her at arm's length from Shrek. Meanwhile, Donkey discovers her transformation and keeps it confidential, understanding the weight of her predicament. As they reach Farquaad, Fiona agrees to marry him, believing this to be her only chance to break the curse, despite her growing feelings for Shrek.
On the day of the wedding, Shrek, who has come to realize his love for Fiona, sets out to disrupt the ceremony with the help of Donkey and the dragon they had previously encountered. A confrontation ensues, revealing Fiona's ogre form to all. Shrek professes his love, and with a kiss, the spell is broken, but not in the expected way. Fiona remains an ogre, as it is her true form, and she and Shrek accept each other for who they are.
The film concludes with Shrek and Fiona's wedding, celebrated by all the fairy tale creatures who now call the swamp their home. Shrek learns the value of friendship, love, and self-acceptance, while the movie playfully critiques fairy tale conventions and celebrates the beauty in being different. With its charming characters, witty dialogue, and memorable soundtrack, "Shrek" became an instant classic, endearing itself to audiences of all ages.
Top cast - Shrek (2001)
Trailer - Shrek (2001)
"Shrek", directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson, is a groundbreaking animated film that debuted in 2001 to critical and commercial success. With its refreshing take on the fairy tale genre, this DreamWorks production delivers a cleverly written, beautifully animated, and wonderfully voiced cinematic experience that has since become a beloved classic for viewers of all ages.
The film's protagonist, a reclusive ogre named Shrek, is an unlikely hero whose quest to reclaim the solitude of his swamp evolves into a much larger journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Voiced by Mike Myers, Shrek's character is imbued with a gruff exterior that hides a sensitive and caring heart, a contrast that becomes central to the film's theme. Eddie Murphy's portrayal of the talkative Donkey provides a perfect comedic counterbalance to Shrek's seriousness, creating a dynamic and hilarious duo that carries the film.
One of "Shrek's" most notable achievements is its animation. The film was at the forefront of digital animation technology at the time, offering viewers stunning visuals that still hold up today. The character designs are distinctive and memorable, and the world of "Shrek" feels both fantastical and tangible, thanks to the attention to detail in its environments and the fluidity of its animation.
The storyline of "Shrek" is a masterful blend of humor, action, romance, and heart. It subverts traditional fairy tale tropes, presenting a narrative where the princess doesn't need to be saved by a prince, and true love comes in unexpected forms. The film's humor is smart and often satirical, appealing to both children and adults with its layers of meaning. The script is peppered with witty one-liners, pop culture references, and a narrative that encourages viewers to look beyond appearances and societal expectations.
Moreover, the voice acting in "Shrek" is exceptional. Cameron Diaz brings a strong-willed and independent spirit to Princess Fiona, creating a character that is both relatable and aspirational. The chemistry between the lead characters is palpable, and the supporting cast, including John Lithgow as the comically villainous Lord Farquaad, adds depth and variety to the film's roster of personalities.
The soundtrack of "Shrek", featuring the iconic song "All Star" by Smash Mouth and a score by Harry Gregson-Williams and John Powell, further complements the film's tone, enhancing both its emotional and comedic moments. The music has become synonymous with the film, contributing to its lasting cultural impact.
In conclusion, "Shrek" is not just a well-crafted animated film; it's a standout story that challenges conventions and delivers a message about the importance of being true to oneself. It's a film that combines humor, heart, and a dash of irreverence to create a magical experience. "Shrek" is a testament to the power of animation in storytelling and remains a high watermark for the genre, setting the stage for a new era of animated features.