I thought it was a very well-written review, Ben. I have a soft spot for Shrek, but....I
do see a lot of the flaws now. In my opinion: film should have focused more on the babies, Fiona and Shrek becoming parents. That was the heart of the story and that's what we should have seen more of.
![Sad :(](./images/smilies/icon_new_frown.png)
(Why in the world would they separate them through most of the film??) There was a lot of potential there that got squandered.
I admit the princesses kind of grate on you. Especially Queen Lillian....and Fiona, who was so multi-layered (IMHO) in Shrek 1...fades away in Shrek 2 and does nothing in Shrek 3. The whole "kick-a** girlfriend" thing from Shrek 1 was SOOOO tired here. Copied almost verbatim with Snow White and the forest animals.
Despite what's been said I DO think the relationship between Artie and Shrek was kind of sweet, but not focused on enough. I still liked it but it just seems like it comes out of nowhere and then goes....nowhere.
![Confused :?](./images/smilies/icon_new_confused.png)
(Still love Merlin though.
![Razz :P](./images/smilies/icon_new_razz.png)
)
It's hard for me to say these things, 'cause like I said, the first Shrek will always have a special place in my heart. But there's no denying that the Shrek franchise (which is what it is now) needs to be reigned in, fast. I just wish they'd stop, excuse the expression, pimping out this poor character. If they keep doing it no one will remember how awesome the first Shrek really was. (and I do think it was.)
You can’t just have your characters announce how they feel! That makes me feel angry!