The Shrek movies have become a beloved and incredibly popular series. This fun, witty animated series is a perfect way for kids and adults alike to enjoy a good laugh. Here, we’ll explore the main aspects of the Shrek movies, discuss why they remain so popular, and see what makes them so beloved among fans.
An Overview of the Shrek Movies
The Shrek movie series is made up of a total of four films. The first movie was released in 2001, with the last movie, titled Shrek Forever After, coming out in 2010. The first film tells the story of the titular character, Shrek, an ogre who lives in a swamp. To win his privacy, he sets out on a quest to rescue a princess and reclaim his home. During the course of his journey, he meets and befriends a talking donkey, creating the start of an unlikely and lovable duo. As the series goes on, viewers are taken on various adventures as Shrek and his friends are thrown into outlandish and often chaotic situations throughout their journey.
The Cast and Voice Actors
The Shrek movies are voiced by some of the industry’s leading stars. Mike Myers plays the role of Shrek, the lovable green ogre. Eddie Murphy stars as his trusty companion, Donkey. Cameron Diaz voices Princess Fiona, the princess whom Shrek rescues during the first movie. Other voice actors include:
-Antonio Banderas as Puss in Boots
-John Lithgow as Lord Farquaad
-Julie Andrews as Queen Lillian
-Rupert Everett as Prince Charming, and
-Larry King as the Magic Mirror
Why the Shrek Movies are So Popular
The success of the Shrek movies can be credited to the rich and witty writing, as well as the humorous dialogue between Shrek and Donkey, the two unlikely buddies. Kids instantly take a liking to Donkey’s silly antics and come to adore Shrek and his no-nonsense attitude. In addition, adults can enjoy the clever references as well as sarcasm-laced humor.
Did you know that according to Rolling Stone magazine, the opening sequence of the first Shrek movie is meant to capture the same style and story-telling as the classic opening of The Flintstones?
The movies also feature various cultural and political references, making them enjoyable for adults and parents. Some of these references include making jokes about Lord Farquaad, whose name is a subtle nod toward former US President George W. Bush.
The Musical Numbers in the Shrek Movies
Aside from the gripping storylines, one of the other aspects that make the Shrek movies interesting is the range of musical numbers. From the upbeat Just That Way to the triumphant I’m a Believer, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.
• Accidentally in Love by the Counting Crows
• All Star by Smash Mouth
• Bad Reputation by Halfcocked
• Hallelujah by Rufus Wainwright
• I’m a Believer by Eddie Murphy
• I’m on My Way by The Proclaimers
• Livin’ La Vida Loca by Ricky Martin
• Like Wow Wipeout! by Leslie Carter
• Morning Person by Razorbill
• My Beloved Monster by The Eels
• This is Our Story by Jennifer Saunders
• True Love’s First Kiss by Eddie Murphy
• What I’ve Been Looking For by Matthew Gumley
• You Belong to Me by Jason Wade
• You Got Love by Vicki Sue Robinson
• Beyond the Valley of the Dolls by The Electric Hellfire Club
• What Dreams Are Made Of by Hilary Duff
• I Need a Hero by Bonnie Tyler
• You belogn to mr by Eugene Levy
• Someone’s Waiting for You by Carly Simon
• Funkytown by lipps inc
The Shrek movies also feature songs from the original Broadway musicals, from the Broadway version of Shrek the Musical to hits from Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors, Hairspray, and many more.
Shrek’s Legacy
Since its launch in 2001, the first Shrek movie has become a multi-award winning box-office success. All four movies together have grossed more than $1.2 billion internationally, and the franchise also spawned several spin-offs and television specials. In 2002, the movie gained the first ever Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Since then, three sequels have been released, with the fourth installment being the last of the series.
Having such a successful and long-running franchise means that Shrek will remain an important piece of pop culture for many years to come. Millions of people around the world have grown to know and love the characters, so much so that a Broadway version of the movie series was released in 2008. Even long after the final movie in the series has been released, Shrek’s legacy will live on in the hearts of fans.
The Shrek movies are a unique and fun animated series that remains popular even years after the first movie was released. The series features fantastic voice actors, witty writing, and amusing musical numbers, making it perfect for people of all ages. From the lovable characters to the comedic references, the Shrek movies are certainly one of the most beloved franchises of all time.
