Movie Review

Shrek 2

Animated sequels usually take on a bad reputation as cheaply constructed direct to video imitations of the original movies. It's very rare that one obtains the same magic as the original, and so rare in fact that only one has ever managed to do it: Toy Story 2. I was very skeptical about Shrek 2 going in, but it doesn't take long to realize that a new movie will be added to that short list.

Shrek 2 picks up after the honeymoon of Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona (Cameron Diaz). The two return to the swamp to find that Fiona's father, the King of Far Far Away, has requested a visit with her and her Prince Charming in order to arrange a royal ball for them. Shrek is reluctant about going, knowing full well that kings usually don't like having ogres as son-in-laws, but to please Fiona he decides to make the trip. So along with Shrek's best friend Donkey (Eddie Murphy), the three head out to meet the parents.

Much like Farquaad's Disney world-like Kingdom in the first film, the land of Far Far Away is a variation on Hollywood, with everything from star maps to Cinderella's house to racy billboards advertising the Fairy Godmother's services. The people of the land are all abuzz about Fiona's return but they are shocked to find that Fiona has not only married an ogre, but has become one herself. This comes as particularly upsetting news to her father, King Harold (John Cleese), who was the one who placed her in the tower until this curse could be lifted by true love's kiss.

To make matters worse, Harold made a deal with the Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders) for Fiona to marry her son Prince Charming (Rupert Everett), who ended up being too late in rescuing her from the tower. Now he must enlist the help of a trained assassin named Puss N' Boots (Antonio Banderas) to get rid of Shrek. Meanwhile, Shrek is convinced that Fiona's dad is never going to be welcoming, and is convinced that he is not the man Fiona wants or deserves. He sets out to enlist the services of the Fairy Godmother, who he hopes has a magic spell that can make their relationship perfect.

The message that Shrek 2 ultimately boils down to is that perfection comes from within, and not through some magical force. This is supported by clever humor, tons of heart, and a lot of excitement ? this sequel captures everything that made the first film so endearing.

Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona are three of the most lovable animated characters and are always a lot of fun to watch, but I really liked two of the new additions: a villainous Fairy Godmother and a feline assassin add freshness to the film. I particularly liked the Puss N' Boots character, who may have the funniest and most adorable face that a cat has ever had in a movie (and the fact that he has Antonio Banderas' voice makes him all the funnier). And like always, the 3-D animation on all of these characters looks fantastic.

Shrek 2 isn't just an animated film, but a romantic comedy with a lesson about life and love. It can touch and entertain any age, and by the end it can have you clamoring for more. The summer is still young, but Shrek 2 is definitely the best film so far ? how?s that for an animated sequel!

Craig's Grade: B+

A	10.9%
B	41.8%
C	31.8%
D	15.3%
F	0.3%