Shrek 2 The Best of the Worst

I finally figured out why Shrek is green; it’s because of the big box offers dollars the computer animated ogre grossed. "Shrek 2" made almost $440 million, that third behind Titanic ($600 million) and the original Star Wars ($460 million). Not only that, but the first week of DVD sales set a weekend record with over 12 million units sold.

Although the movie was generously given a PG rating, I am always a little reluctant whenever Eddie Murphy’s mouth is moving. And sure enough, the potential to be fun was shrouded by a lot of inappropriate humor that young kids can sip.

The tale picks up with Shrek and his new bride, Princess Fiona, returning from their honeymoon. Before they can get unpacked, the insensitive donkey shows up and moves in. About the same time messengers arrive from Princess Fiona’s parent inviting them to a royal ball. Even though Shrek thinks it’s a bad idea (which it was), the wife wins out and off they go (now that’s reality).

Well, the couple arrived and the parents are shocked that their daughter has married an ogre. It’s strange that they don’t seem to realize that their daughter is an ogre too. King Harold and Shrek can’t see eye to eye because he wanted his daughter to marry Prince Charming, the son of the fairy God Mother. So the king hires a hit man to get Shrek out of the way.

There are some positive elements; themes of inner beauty, friendship, loyalty and true love. Marriage gets a strong plus as well as the depth of family bonds.

As with most fairy tales, there is a fairy godmother that supposedly helps people live happily ever after. But she is actually an over the hill middle-aged woman with an attitude. She apparently thinks she is sexy and dresses accordingly, and when she mixes a potion, she has her own selfish plans in mind.

Then there’s the bartender at the country tavern referred to as the Ugly Stepsister. But he is actually a drag queen (I think). And when Shrek drinks the potion and turns into a handsome human, several young girls from the village lust after him rather aggressively. In addition, the word "butt" is used several times, and although Pinocchio’s nose grows when he lies, he is found to wear female underwear. There is more, including a picture of sleazy Justin Timberlake on Fiona’s wall, but I will spare you.

There is a lot to like; good animation and family friendly messages. Unfortunately, I am confused as to why a movie would target an audience of young children to pedal off crude humor and suggestive content. In my opinion, we may be better off if Shrek stays in the forest.

Edmund Brown