Shrek The Third

By: The Dweeb

November 2007

DVD Features Video: 1.85:1 Audio:Dolby Digital 5.1, Dolby Digital 2.0 FRENCH: Dolby Digital 5.1 SPANISH: Dolby Digital 2.0 Artie’s Yearbook Shrek’s Guide to Parenthood Lost Scenes Tech of Shrek Big Green Goofs Learn the Donkey Dance Smash Ups: Make Your Own Video! Merlin’s Magic Crystal Ball Tournament Games Theatrical release: 5/18/2007 DVD released on 11/13/2007 by Dreamworks Running time of 92 minutes Starring: Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Mike Myers, Rupert Everett, Justin Timberlake, Julie Andrews, Amy Poehler, Amy Sedaris, John Cleese, Antonio Banderas, Ian McShane Director: Chris Miller, Raman Hui Plot: When his frog-in-law suddenly croaks, Shrek embarks on another whirlwind adventure with Donkey and Puss In Boots to find the rightful heir to the throne. Everyone’s favorite cast of characters is back, along with a magical misguided Merlin, an awkward Arthur, a powerful posse of princesses, and a bundle of unexpected arrivals.

The third installment in the ever so popular Shrek franchise has just been released into the wild, much to the joy of little kids everywhere. Them kids sure do love the Shrek don’t they? With this third movie they definitely have improved the formula, there is something in here for both young and old alike and has plenty of laugh out loud moments. I have to admit that I have changed my opinion of the original Shrek which I reviewed oh so long ago with the help of Dweeb Jr.’s repeated viewing. And I apologize, I have not seen the second film either, but that does not stop one from enjoying this one. This movie is set soon after the events of the second film, with many of the characters returning.

I think this film maintains good balance with the many, many characters that populate this film. Every one of them is portrayed in this smartass tone that turns what we know of conventional fairly tales on its ear with a bit of a modern twist leaking in. The princess posse has by far the funniest bits in this movie. Aside from the jokes, there are a ton of hidden and not so hidden references that one has to take in multiple viewings to catch them.

They continued and took out all the stops and grabbed as many great actors to do the voices in this film while adding a full roster of new talents. Without cheating and looking on IMDB see how many legends of comedy and screen are a part of the movie. As I said above the princess characters are by far the funniest, and the whole Charlie’s Angels thing they do is a scene stealer, if an animated film can have that. With Cheri Oteri, Maya Rudolph, Amy Sedaris, and Amy Poehler how can one go wrong?

Of course, the film looks stunning on the DVD format and I’m sure the HD version looks even better. The picture is rich in textures and color, and to match is a great soundtrack. This DVD also comes with some nice extra features like Arties yearbook, games and so forth. Really it may be almost too much to go through. I liked the Donkey Dance, which appeals to my Gen X nostalgia I guess. Overall I enjoyed this film, and the rest of the DVD is well put together. This will make a fine addition to anyone’s collection.

Reviewer’s Opinion: BUY IT!!