There are some movies that you cherish as a child and they only get better as you mature enough to understand the deeper meanings within. The first 'Shrek' is one example. Then there are movies so heaped in nostalgia that you're bound to be disappointed when your critical adult self finds flaws within them. This is 'Shrek 2'; a fantastic movie, carrying the DNA of 'Shrek', that is slightly held back by illogical pop culture references only adults could understand.

 

The Hollywood spoof of Far Far Away is not so egregious, and is actually quite funny, as are the myriad of references to classic films ('Frankenstein', 'E.T.', 'Mission: Impossible' are all referenced) but smaller references, such as the Shirley Bassey hedge, the Joan Rivers' 'cameo' and the Mirror/TV, make no logical sense in an otherwise believable fairytale world. This is a minor quibble though, everything else about 'Shrek 2' is delightful.

 

The scope is bigger than the first 'Shrek' and it builds upon the message and charm of the first. The action is better and the soundtrack... well not only is it better than 'Shrek's already great playlist, it's perhaps one of the best collection of anthems in any film of the past decade. "Accidentally in Love", "Holding Out for A Hero", "Changes", "Funkytown", "Ever Fallen in Love", the list goes on.

 

Many a time during 'Shrek 2' I was overwhelmed by chills of nostalgia greater than anything I felt during 'Shrek'. Most of all though, the character is there. Shrek, Donkey and Puss are Dreamworks' answer to Buzz, Woody and Jessie of 'Toy Story' fame. They are iconic, loveable, funny, relatable, complex, and unique characters. The scene in the potion factory where the gang team up for the first time is animated music.

 

If you aren't smiling at their antics at some point in the film, you're doing something wrong. Even an ogre would grin at 'Shrek 2'. While 'Shrek' had layers, 'Shrek 2' has pizzazz.

 

It may not be a classic, but it is a damn good, outrageously fun sequel.

 

Score: 8.6/10