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Shrek (2001) Dreamworks Pictures Starring: the voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and John Lithgow Music by: John Powell and Harry Gregson Williams Directed by: Vicky Jenson, Andrew Adamson, Victoria Jenson Shrek Rating:  
E-MAIL GIANCARLO DE LISI Computer animated films are by far the most complex and painstakingly difficult films to make. Yet, the filmmakers make it look so easy when it comes to pure delights like the genre's latest feature, "Shrek". The detail and life-like mannerisms are extremely well done and all the characters are technical marvels in what proves to be a great family film that will appeal to the youngsters with its' rich colours and visual gags - and will please the adults with its subtle yet prevalent innuendo. 'Shrek' is based on a short story that contains a wide array of characters that appeal to both young and old. Their voices are provided by notable Hollywood Superstars such as Mike Myers who provides the voice of the grotesque and defiant titular character. While Eddie Murphy plays his sidekick as a lovable, yet talkative donkey. Set in a mystical and mythical fairy tale land, these two set out on a journey (don't all animated characters do) to save the princess (voiced by Cameron Diaz) from a fierce and romantic fire-breathing dragon. Upon their capturing the princess, they must bring her to marry the land's prince; the deliciously evil Lord Farquaard voiced by John Lithgow who brings life to this devilish Napoleonic dictator. Yes, the plot is simple and repetitive, but the real fun comes in the film's actual presentation. Seeing as it is a Dreamworks picture, this studio does not hide the fact that Dreamworks wants to directly go after that tempting and profitable family market. This film will definitely give Disney some competition at the box office when it comes to the monopoly of Family films. Furthermore, the film makes no attempts at hiding the fact that they want to poke fun at the Disney Empire. The film is filled with cheapshots at Disney films, and Disney-land itself. For example, upon entering Lord Farquard's mansion, Shrek and his donkey enter this Disney-esque kingdom complete with turn stalls, lush green grass and musical information kiosques that push the limits of family fun. Furthermore, the film pokes fun at Disney musicals by capturing a scene where the princess sings along with a bird only to have the bird explode due to the princess' high notes. This and other scenes exemplify one thing; Dreamworks is on the prowl to make an impact on that consuming family market. While the film contains a verisimilitude of other sight gags and goodies, the real attention is the detail these characters have in their emotions. The next phase of digital animation has arrived and it is presented in this film. Yet, the envelope may be further pushed with the release of this summer's "Final Fantasy: Spirits Within" CG film. Yet, for the time being it is extraordinarily amazing to see a film this craftily and realistically brought to life. The detail and authenticity is remarkable, yet the film must not be misinterpreted as on a higher level of other animated films. It is a good film with a story that allows these characters to discover things they never knew before. After all, it is a family film and there are always values to be learned in these films. Yet, this film is not on the level of a CG family film like 'A Bug's Life'. This film can have something of a double meaning. The first will be to deliver a feel-good family film that entertains, excites and even entices. The second will be a direct message that the honchos at Disney have a new studio in town that knows how to make a well-made animated film. This film certainly stands out on its own as a different, crude and amazingly entertaining family film that if Dreamworks keeps on delivering; will certainly make some Disney execs sweat. Click here to comment on this review or post your own thoughts. Giancarlo De Lisi © TheWorldJournal.com |
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