Shrek

Reviewed by Lisa Renee Davis

Shrek was an ogre who lived in a swamp. He didn’t want to be disturbed by anyone or anything. Even though he tried to look and act like he was mean and cruel, he was just the opposite.

Lord Farquaad, the ruler of Duloc, exiles all the fairy-tale creatures from the kingdom. This irritates Shrek because they move in with him. He goes to complain to Lord Farquaad. Then he makes Shrek go on a quest to find Princess Fiona and bring her back so Farquaad can marry her and become the king. A fast-talking donkey invites himself to go along with Shrek on the journey.

Shrek rescues Fiona from the dragon. On the way back to the Duloc, Shrek and Fiona become friends. Fiona has a secret, though. At night she hides from Shrek and the donkey because when it’s dark she turns into an ogre, too, just like Shrek. Before she can tell Shrek the truth about herself, she is taken to Lord Farquaad.

Just before the marriage, Shrek arrives to break things up. Shrek saves Fiona and they get married and live happily ever after.

This movie taught me a lot. I learned especially that people are not always what they appear to be on the outside so it’s not a good thing to judge someone by their looks. I also learned that it’s good to say you are sorry and to appreciate your friends.

To Talk About

Before the movie:

Talk with your parents about how television and ads make us want to have perfect bodies. Is this really possible?

Is body image what makes a good person? Why or why not?

After the movie:

Why does Fiona worry about the way she looks?

How does the relationship between Fiona and Shrek change? Why?

How is Shrek a movie about goodness and friendship?