Shrek, released in 2001, is an American computer-animated fantasy film that draws loose inspiration from William Steig’s 1990 fairy tale picture book of the same name. Directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson in their directorial debut, the film features the voice talents of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and John Lithgow. Shrek serves as a comedic spoof of various children’s fantasies, particularly animated Disney films. The story revolves around an ogre named Shrek (voiced by Myers) whose peaceful swamp is invaded by fairy tale creatures banished there by the villainous Lord Farquaad (voiced by Lithgow). To reclaim his swamp, Shrek strikes a deal with Farquaad to rescue Princess Fiona (voiced by Diaz) in exchange for his property deed. Accompanied by a witty Donkey (voiced by Murphy), Shrek embarks on a journey where he unexpectedly falls for the princess and uncovers a surprising secret about her.
Initially, Steven Spielberg secured the rights to Steig’s book in 1991 with plans for a traditional animated adaptation. The project transitioned to DreamWorks in 1994 at the suggestion of John H. Williams, with production spearheaded by Jeffrey Katzenberg after acquiring the rights in 1995. Following Chris Farley’s untimely passing in 1997, Mike Myers was brought in to voice Shrek and added his own Scottish accent to the character. The film was originally intended to be motion-captured but underwent a transformation to achieve its final computer-animated look with the assistance of Pacific Data Images.
Shrek marked the debut of DreamWorks Animation as a formidable contender to Pixar in computer-generated feature films. The movie grossed $484.4 million globally, exceeding its $60 million budget. It garnered praise for its ability to engage both adults and children, blending adult-oriented humor with a straightforward storyline. The film clinched the inaugural Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and received acclaim for its screenplay adaptation. Moreover, it earned recognition from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, including a win for Best Adapted Screenplay.
The film’s success prompted DreamWorks to produce three sequels, two holiday specials, and a spin-off film. While initially planned as the series’ finale, the cancellation of a fifth installment was overturned in 2016, promising a release around 2019 or 2020. Shrek’s popularity spawned various merchandise, from video games to a stage musical and comic book adaptation. In 2010, the iconic character received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
