Shrek 2 [Blu-ray]

First off, I have actually got this DVD before it is released. This is because i am a member of a DVD club and got it delivered on Saturday morning. (30th October)

The second bit, the talking packaging. It is funny, you press your down on the sign that the gingerbread man is holding (that says press me) and donkey says "Shrek and Donkey on another whirlwind adventure". When this is heard through the built in speaker there is also a light that appears behind donkeys teeth so it lights them up!

When you open the DVD case there is a Velcro pad on the side that when opened reveals a 3d pop up of the characters. The actual DVD case is inside the cardboard covering area around it and is accessed by sliding the DVD case up or down.

Right, now the actual film itself. I thought the first of the Shrek films was really really good and this one is just the same. The only thing I found with Shrek 2 was that the plot was not as strong as the first, but I'm sure this is because this is actually the first time I've watched Shrek 2. But the film is still as funny with famous voice-overs etc. There are a few scenes in the film that are very funny and you will not forget soon (hairball scene?).

The special features are quite good as well. The far far away idol is quite funny as well, which shows most of the characters from the films singing songs that are relevant to them in the story. The far far away idol is judged by no other than Mr. Simon Cowell. He gives comments on what he likes and doesn't like about the singers. After hearing all the songs and judges comments (Shrek, Fiona and Simon) you can pick who you think deserves to win far far away idol, which results in a different ending showing the winning characters celebration. I also found the how to draw special feature quite useful as well but I haven't actually tried to draw the characters!

This is a good DVD that has plenty of special features as well as a good script and fun for not only children but also adults of all ages. A good family film that deserves 5 stars.

I cannot recommend 'Shrek 2' highly enough - it's a dazzlingly witty and superbly crafted movie. Unfortunately, it deserves a proper DVD release and this isn't it: both the two-disc and the single disc UK releases are CUT (farewell Fiona's headbutt) and DUBBED (bye bye Larry King and Joan Rivers). If that doesn't matter, then order away. If it does matter, then buy the Australian editions which are dual region anyway (R2/R4), so you can play them on your normal DVD player without having to be multiregion. It's a great film and it deserves to be seen UNCUT and with its ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK. Rant over.

Shrek (Mike Myers) and his new bride Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) are just settling down to their happy ever after when they get a summons. Fiona's parents (Julie Andrews and John Cleese) want to meet their new son-in-law. Shrek knows that their little secret will ruin the meeting. After all, who wants an ogre for a son-in-law, even if your daughter is one, too?

Against his better judgment, the two set out accompanied by Donkey (Eddie Murphy). When they reach Fiona's kingdom, Far Far Away, their reception is everything that Shrek feared it would be, which crushes Fiona.

Unbeknownst to them, danger is lurking in their future. Fiona's Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders) had a deal with Fiona's father. Now the two will do whatever it takes to make that come true.

Can Shrek bring Fiona happiness? Will the evil plot succeed?

The first movie was the surprise hit of 2001, so a sequel was only natural. The first one was original, clever, and had a great message. This one isn't as original and is a variation on the same theme, but it is funnier. The jokes and cultural references are everywhere. It may make the movie dated in 10 years, but for now, it is hilarious.

All the major voice talent is back and again do a great job of bringing their characters to life. The new actors fit right in. Technology has advanced in the three years between movies, and it makes for a better movie this time around.

The only flaw with the film is that, once again, some of the laughter comes from crude jokes and suggestive situations. Since this movie aims at kids, that's a disappointment. Watch it before you let your kids see it to determine if you think it is appropriate for them.

Having said that, this movie will make anyone who watches it laugh.