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The first full-length 3D animated feature, Toy Story (1995), was a grand victory on every level and Pixar's debut trademark film has turned into a classic renowned for entertaining people of all generations. Ever since, Disney/Pixar's CGI animation films have dominated the genre artistically and have gone on to gross billions at the box-office. Buzz Lightyear and Woody, representing the two American institutions of space exploration and the West respectively; have consequently become synonymous with pop culture and "To infinity… And beyond!" has become instantly recognisable to the most diverse of film lovers. Toy Story 2 (2000) has also become a sensation, arguably surpassing its predecessor in terms of quality and humour and adding yet another huge hit to Tom Hanks' vast arsenal. In the early cinematic days of computer animation, the San Francisco-based studio seemingly had a monopoly in regards to the modern field of 'enhanced' hits.
A select few studios, notably DreamWorks SKG, have dabbled in CGI to try and rival Pixar's visual precision and storytelling gift. Shrek is the only non-Pixar feature which has challenged (and exceeded in terms of box-office) the dominance of Andy and his collection of toys. DreamWorks Animation took a large gamble to try and overcome already conquered territory and Katzenberg and co. were triumphant. Mike Myers' green ogre is not exactly the most bankable of characters but the studio decided on a tweaked version of the old fashioned fairytale route to entice filmgoers and the risk paid off handsomely. After replacing Chris Farley, who unfortunately died during production, Myers' quasi-Scottish accent carries the bulk of proceedings as Shrek, and Eddie Murphy's babbling Donkey, set out on a rescue mission to save Cameron Diaz's gorgeous and yet very down-to-earth Princess Fiona. The reason for the adventurous excursion is so our friendly green, swamp-loving hero can regain his territory and Fiona can marry John Lithgow's iniquitous antagonist Lord Farquaad. The whole premise seems rather satirical to the majority of the public who have already been saturated in stories of enchantment in childhood, but Shrek works because it isn't afraid of making fun of itself and it freely admits to being a feature length spoof. We meet classic fairytale characters and the writers are not frightened of visiting fable clichés (Fiona having to find somewhere to sleep before the sun goes down) to succeed in parodying classic fairytale structure.
The comedy element is also first-rate, making use of all the legendary icons DreamWorks add to the mix. Robin Hood's impromptu singing, the Magic Mirror who showcases Fiona, Cinderella and Snow White, and Pinocchio's cameo are all humorous instances, but the funniest sequence of the film involves the Gingerbread Man as he is interrogated by the dwarf-like Farquaad – "The muffin man!" "Yes! The muffin man!" All the leads competently escort us through the visual jokes animation always serves up and the smorgasbord of hilarity we are left with somehow possesses a heart intertwined with the WWE-style wrestling and The Matrix (1999) references. Whoever knew a grumpy green giant could compete with Woody and Buzz?
The extras
For a 2001 release, DreamWorks have done themselves proud for a Standard Edition even though the features cannot compete with the Region 1 release or the Region 2 Special Edition. The commentary track from the producer and the two directors is worthwhile as they passionately discuss the technical and voice aspects of the film. "The Tech of Shrek" is a good 20 minute feature and it treats us to a relatively in-depth look at the production. Aside from the interviews with the main players, notes and cast and crew biographies, the rest is interactive. For an original experience with your DVD-ROM you can record your own voice and put it into the film! This is a unique and amusing feature to say the least. A karaoke party and interactive games round off the decent package which you will either love or hate depending on the loudness of the child inside trying to escape and perfect Shrek's dulcet tones.
The summary
Lasting humour, charming characters and an enchanting plot, Shrek is a visual delight which will appeal to young and old.
