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By: Jania Harris
“Shrek 2” is commemorating its 20th anniversary this year. When the much-loved animated movie was released in 2004, its humorous characters, infectious soundtrack, and endearing message captured the attention of audiences worldwide.
What distinguishes “Shrek 2” from other sequels?
Tavaris Taylor, a sophomore industrial technology major from Miami, Fla., believes it’s the fact that “Shrek 2” was able to out-perform the first movie in terms of quality.
“’Shrek 2’ impacted the culture because “Shrek” was already a cinematic masterpiece and nobody was expecting the second one to be good because usually most sequels are horrible. But they managed to make a sequel that was better than the first one and it changed how people would make sequels from then to now,” Taylor said.
Puss in Boots and the Fairy Godmother are two of the most notable new characters that the movie introduces as it follows Shrek and Fiona as they visit Fiona’s parents in the Kingdom of Far Far Away.
Its sharp comedy and deft fairy tale and pop culture parodies never fail to make an impression on viewers of all ages.
Zion Murphy, a freshman meteorology major from St. Louis, Mo., shared his thoughts on the impact of “Shrek 2” on its audience.
“I can’t think of one in particular because it’s been so long since I’ve seen it, but I do know there are more vulgar references in “Shrek” that went over our heads when we were younger,” Murphy said.
Indeed, “Shrek 2’s” unique blend of humor for both children and adults is one of the reasons why it remains a fan favorite two decades later. From the catchy rendition of “Livin’ La Vida Loca” by Eddie Murphy’s Donkey character, to the emotional rollercoaster of Shrek and Fiona’s relationship, the film continues to stand the test of time.
“Shrek 2’s” influence on pop culture and the process of creating sequels is evident as we commemorate the movie’s 20th anniversary. The movie is a timeless classic that will endure for years to come because to its message of acceptance of oneself for who one is and the strength of genuine love.
“Shrek 2” has remained a mainstay of popular culture ever since its debut, with memes and allusions still making the rounds on social media almost twenty years after it was released. The film’s place as a timeless masterpiece in the animation genre has been solidified by its ability to appeal to both adults and children through brilliant humor and witty dialogue.
Furthermore, the sequel did not shy away from exploring more mature themes, such as the challenges of relationships and the complexities of family dynamics, making it relatable to a broader audience.
The character development in “Shrek 2” is another aspect that has been praised by viewers, as they see Shrek and Fiona navigating the ups and downs of married life amidst the chaos of the Fairy Godmother’s wicked schemes.
The soundtrack of “Shrek 2” is also deserving of recognition, with memorable songs like “Accidentally in Love” by Counting Crows and “Holding Out for a Hero” by Jennifer Saunders, adding depth and emotion to the film’s narrative. The use of popular music in the soundtrack not only enhances the viewing experience but also makes the film more accessible to a wider audience.
Overall, “Shrek 2” has cemented its status as a classic animated movie thanks to its enduring influence on pop culture, its capacity to amuse viewers of all ages, and its examination of mature subjects.
Looking back on the 20th anniversary of “Shrek 2”, it’s clear that the movie still has an impact on audiences and will be a beloved favorite for a very long time.
