Shrek Forever After (2010)

"Rumpelstiltskin tricks a mid-life crisis burdened Shrek into allowing himself to be erased from existence and cast in a dark alternate timeline where Rumpel rules supreme." (imdb.com)

Viewed in May 2010 in theaters


Having practically grown up with Shrek, I have always loved the films. The first one was extremely original (but crude); the second, not quite as bad but still unique and witty; the third was mostly forgettable but enjoyable. Now here comes the fourth film in this huge moneymaker, labeling itself the "final chapter" in a long and lovable warped fairy tale.

To be honest, I was a little bit nervous about how the treatment of one of my favorite animated characters would conclude. I was worried that the makers of the film would "screw it up" and give Shrek a lame and half-hearted fake farewell. Boy, was I ever wrong! This film turned out to be mostly kid-friendly and have a deep and touching message at its core: to love one's family and be happy with the little things in life. Shrek's journey through a middle-aged parenthood crisis is heartfelt and true to the characters, while still teaching all of us a very valuable lesson in savoring the time we have with our loved ones.

The film has been lambasted for not being funny enough, not having the original spice and life that the original had, for not being unique and for being worn-out. I disagree entirely. Sure, this film is not quite as rollickingly hilarious or packed with double-entendres. (Frankly I'd much rather have a film without all that, if it means I get to see some of my "old friends" without all their "old habits.") But all in all, the "final Shrek movie" is adorable and one I can't wait to see again.

NEGATIVES:
>> There are a few nasty names thrown around, and there are one or two implied profanities. Once or twice we're slapped with a double-entendre.
>> There are a few pretty intense fighting scenes, with some impressive aerial combat. Explosions and witches come flying at us from all directions, which is pretty fun in 3-D. Knives are flung around, and a few characters get hit in the face or fall from really high places.
>> Not too much on the spiritual front, only the main villain deals with "enchanted deals" and he employs ugly, mostly useless witches to do his dirty work.
>> Alcohol is used when Shrek tries to relax after a long day of daddyhood. It's also brought in during a party and when the local rabble comes around.
>> Sexual content is actually refreshingly low. There are a few jokes and I seem to remember a visual gag come in somewhere, but for the most part it is nowhere near the level seen in the first three films. :)

As a whole, I thoroughly enjoyed this film and its message. I feel like I've paid my due and said a happy farewell to characters with whom I've grown up. Shrek has always been a source of laughter and fun. It's been good, ol' boy. Happy ever after.

5 stars out of 6

So that everyone (including myself) may benefit from it, please feel free to leave your own personal opinion of this film.

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