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‘Shrek’ an overdose of fairy talesBY AMANDA ZELLER
When we were children, our parents read us fairytales. "Pinocchio," "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs," "The Pied Piper," "Goldie Locks and the Three Bears" and "Cinderella" are all before-bed stories that left warm and fuzzy feelings in our tummy. This summer, Dreamworks pictures has brought together favorite childhood stories to create a new and modern fairytale of their own. "Shrek" meets all the requirements of a typical fairytale – forbidden love, an evil villain, and a hero overcoming all obstacles. However, it is greatly lacking in the warm and fuzzy department. The plot begins with our hero, a disgusting yet sensitive ogre named Shrek (Mike Myers) who is forced by discrimination into a typical ogre role and lives alone in his very own swamp. Myers, who is known for his comedic talent and his ability to play well into any role, does not apply any of that to this character. Enter the villain, Lord Farqaad (John Lithgow), the short but mean lord of the land who banishes all fairytale creatures in his attempt at a perfect kingdom. In order for Shrek to regain solitude in his swamp, he must go and rescue the beautiful princess Fiona from her tower and return her to Farqaad, to be married. Shrek sets out on his journey with his faithful ‘steed,’ Donkey. Donkey is voiced by Eddie Murphy, whose endless, mindless chatter makes you glad that donkeys don’t talk in real life. Cameron Diaz does the voice of Princess Fiona and makes a weak attempt to introduce the character as a stong, independent woman. Instead, she comes across as annoying, spoiled and incredibly snotty. The brilliant animation is sure to attract children of all ages, yet the sexual innuendoes suggest this is a movie definitely meant for adults. With a predictable plot, a flagellant ogre, an annoying donkey, and a stuck-up princess, this movie desecrates everything that is sacred about beloved fairytales. |
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