The first "Shrek" film was a surprise to say the least. Filled with charm, wit, and relatable characters it proved to be enjoyable for the entire family. "Shrek" also established DreamWorks as a true competitor to Walt Disney Pictures in the field of animated features. The fact that "Shrek 2" was as much of a success was by no means a fluke. The guys at DreamWorks teamed up with this cast know how to make a fun movie, "Shrek the Third" solidifies their credibility. Rather than just adding more stars to the cast and telling the same jokes again, it's apparent they did their best not to deliver a repetitive script.
Five members from "Saturday Night Live", two from the "Monty Python" cast, Justin Timberlake, and star of "The Office" John Krasinski among others are all worked into a modest ninety-three minutes of film. Even the smallest of parts prove to be most memorable and humorous. As the first "Shrek" this movie is about a journey, so the characters are used in predictable and fun ways throughout Shrek's (Mike Myers) quest. With the recent death of King Harold (John Cleese), Shrek is reluctant to take over his role. Shrek journeys to find the only other remaining heir, Artie (Justin Timberlake), a textbook reject who is eager to take the title.
While departing Shrek is less than enthusiastic to find out he is soon to be a father, which is the source of a lot of humor that might keep an adult audience interested. As soon as Shrek leaves for his journey Prince Charming (Rupert Everett) rounds up the usual fairy tale baddies to take over kingdom of Far Far Away. All of the fairy tale princesses, villains, and sidekick heroes are pulled out of the book of stock characters once again to take their part in the fight over the fate of Far Far Away.
The first two movies are among my favorite animated films, but I couldn't help but feel a third was almost certainly going to kill the charm of the first two. "Shrek the Third" is completely predictable, mildly crude, and completely unnecessary. I had no desire to see this movie going in, yet found myself slowly and reluctantly enjoying it. The same old "Shrek" with a few slight twits worked well this time around, but will it the next? Dreamworks Animation recently revealed forth Shrek is in the works for a 2010 release and a spin-off based on the "Puss in Boots" character played by Antonio Banderas soon after. Work has also gotten arond about a possible fifth Shrek later on. In the meantime, there is plenty of fun to be had with "Shrek the Third."
“Shrek the Third” is rated PG by the MPAA for some crude humor, suggestive content and swashbuckling action.
