Movie Review: Shrek Forever After: The Final Chapter

Shrek Forever After: The Final Chapter * * * *

DreamWorks Pictures brings the ten year Shrek saga to an end with an electrifying finale in Shrek Forever After: The Final Chapter. It is the first of the Shrek chronicles to be filmed in 3D animation. The usage of this type of energy allows the audience to feel the story because of how the filmmakers emotionally use the 3D capability. Instead of knowing Shrek and his journey the audience will be able to come alongside of Shrek to experience his plight. Director Mike Mitchell believes that Shrek has come full circle and the conclusion is extremely satisfying to those who have put their heart and soul into the project. Many will look back on DreamWorks Pictures Shrek as a classic work of art in animation that will forever be apart of the American film culture worthy of praise.

For the past ten years, Shrek (voice of Mike Meyers) has not lived the life of a typical ogre that routinely scares villagers. Instead he has converted from a life of meanness to one of happiness, kindness and joy. He has managed to make good friends, find true love and be a protector of a Kingdom not his own. Yet, he feels something is missing and confides in the cunning Rumpelstiltskin (voice of Walt Dohrn) of his longing to be a “real” ogre for just one solitary day. Rumpelstiltskin, beguiled by the news of Shreks wish to re-enter his old lifestyle, takes the opportunity to be of assistance. Shrek is blinded by Rumpelstiltskin’s manipulative act of service in order to gain control of Far Far Away; and, enters into an agreement to be an ogre for one day through a magical transaction. Shrek is initially pleased until he realizes that his previous life of meanness isn’t fulfilling. He wants out of the contract but realizes that unless certain things occur during his one day of being an ogre there is no return. Shrek must rectify the situation or he will be the cause of destroying the land and the good people of Far Far Away, which he is gratefully indebted for his personal transformation.

Karen Pecota

24/7 MOMS official film journalist

Released in local theaters: May21, 2010

Movie rating: PG