Sequels typically are pale imitations of the original film, but not “Shrek the Third.” This movie is refreshingly funny.
The third installment of the ogre tales takes fewer stabs at Disney, but it still delivers more laughs than the second movie.
In this episode, Shrek is faced with the dilemma of becoming king after his mother-in-law becomes gravelly ill. The ogre is reluctant to take the throne and goes on a quest to find his wife Fiona’s high schoolaged cousin Artie so he may take the crown. Meanwhile, Fiona reveals that she’s pregnant.
Eventually, Fiona’s cousin realizes he is royalty and Shrek gets in touch with his inner self.
Meanwhile Fiona and her fairytale friends come under attack during her baby shower, but rather than wait for rescue they take matters into their hands.
The moral of the story? You can be whatever you want to be, regardless of what society dictates.
Notable newcomers to the ogre franchise are Amy Poehler who lends her voice as Snow White, Amy Sedaris as the obsessive-compulsive Cinderella and Eric Idle as a bemused Merlin.
Justin Timberlake is the voice of Fiona’s cousin, but his performance is less than stellar.
The high-definition DVD includes deleted — but very funny — scenes. Another extra is the high school yearbook, where viewers can learn more about the characters at Artie’s school. It also shows the level of detail that the people at Dreamworks put into character development.
This is a must-have DVD for parents or anyone who wants some clean fun.
The film is available on HD-DVD and standard DVD format.
'Transformers'
This rock ’em sock ’em robot action flick is truly more enjoyable in high definition.
The film is devoid of a plot, but that didn’t faze moviegoers who were more interested in the cars and robots than a complex story. Director Micheal Bay delivers action by the truckload.
Shia Labeouf acting shows that he is growing into a leading man and Megan Fox does her role as eye candy. Both raising stars hold their own in scenes with John Turturro and Jon Voight.
The making-of extras are worth every penny.
This is definitely a must buy, especially in high def.
'Spider-Man 3'
This film is the lesser of the Spidey trilogy. Two fan-favorite villains show up in this film and one is portrayed very well. Thomas Hayden-Church’s portrayal of the Sandman is touching and has more depth than the character has in the script. Topher Grace on the other hand eats scenery like it’s made of the antidote to whatever poison he’s taken. The extras are fun but not thrilling. Rent this one.
Shawn Munguia does graphics and layout for the Valley Morning Star. He also maintains a blog about cartoons and comics at http://toontalk.freedomblogging.com/. Munguia can be reached at 956-421-9870 or you can e-mail him at shawnm@valleystar.com.
