We’ve been told that “Shrek Forever After” is the final episode in the Shrek franchise. I hope so. Not that I haven’t enjoyed Shrek because I have and I enjoyed number four, too. But it’s time. Unlike the other three, “Shrek Forever After” explores a serious issue, that of a mid-life crisis, and then combines it with a version of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” And since Shrek lives in Far, Far Away, he finds himself in the presence of Rumpelstiltskin, a crafty wheeler-dealer who’s out to gain the throne. Why is Shrek about to sign his life away? It all starts with his children’s first birthday party when Shrek realizes that his days of being a ferocious ogre are gone. All he wants is one day to relive the glories of single ogrehood. Unfortunately, the one day Rumpel gives Shrek is the day he was born, thereby negating his entire existence. And if Shrek doesn’t kiss Fiona within the 24-hour period he’s been allotted, he dies and Rumpel remains king of Far, Far Away.
By rewriting the Shrek story, we get to see what Far, Far Away would look like if Shrek hadn’t been there to rescue Fiona from the dragon. The regular crew is back with Mike Myers and Cameron Diaz as Shrek and Fiona and Eddie Murphy and Antonio Banderas do wonderful work as Donkey and Puss. This time around, Puss is a pampered, overweight housecat, which results in some funny stuff. Walt Dohrn, a veteran animator who voices Rumpel with manic, hyperactive energy, creates a fitting antagonist. The 3D is effective in some portions and nonexistent in others. And by the time the film ends, you’re ready for the Shrek saga to end. It was a fun journey, but enough is enough. 5/21/10
1 comment:
This is the first Shrek that I have seen and I rather enjoyed it. Not sure if its great for you kids, the villains (witches) (Rumplestiltskin) is pretty evil and mean. Pretty good story.
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