Parents' Guide to Shrek

Movie PG 2001 93 minutes
Shrek movie poster: Fiona, Shrek, Donkey, and Farquaad pose in front of a large "S" with ogre ears

Common Sense Media Review

By Nell Minow , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 6+

Gross-out laughs meet a marvelous fairy tale mix.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 6+?

Any Positive Content?

  • Shrek Trailer
  • Shrek movie: Shrek and Donkey outside
  • Shrek movie: Shrek watches with hands on hips as Fiona cups Donkey's chin
  • Shrek movie: Fiona and Shrek gaze at each other and hold hands against a sunset backdrop

Parent and Kid Reviews

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age 7+

Based on 102 parent reviews

Parents say that while the movie is beloved for its humor and unique take on fairy tales, it contains a considerable amount of adult content, strong language, and dark themes that make it unsuitable for younger children. Many reviews suggest that it's more appropriate for older kids or teens who can better understand the nuances of the humor, and parents should be cautious due to its potentially disturbing scenes and messages.

  • not suitable for young children
  • adult humor prevalent
  • strong language included
  • dark themes present
  • suitable for older kids
Summarized with AI
 

 

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age 7+

Based on 289 kid reviews

Kids say the movie is humorously layered with adult jokes and themes, making it more suitable for older children rather than younger viewers. While some praise its comedic elements and unique take on fairy tales, there are mixed opinions regarding its appropriateness for young audiences due to the crude language and suggestive content.

  • - Mixed audience suitability
  • - Humor for adults
  • - Unique fairy tale
  • - Crude language
  • - Older children recommended
Summarized with AI
 

 

See all 289 kid reviews

What's the Story?

SHREK has an enchanted princess in a tower, guarded by a fire-breathing dragon. It has a donkey that not only talks, and not only sings, but sings the old Monkees' song, "I'm a Believer." It has an evil (but short) bad guy, kickboxing, a Robin Hood and Merry Men who perform an Irish Riverdance, potty humor, and some digs at Disney. It has sensational animation, adventure, romance, and laughter. And most of all, it has Shrek, a big, green ogre who lives happily alone in a swamp until Lord Farquaad of nearby Dulac sets out to create the perfect kingdom by getting rid of all of the fairy tale characters and sending them to "a designated resettlement community." Soon, the three blind mice, the three little pigs, the gingerbread man, all the broom-flying witches, Pinocchio, and a talking donkey are all relocated to the swamp. Shrek is furious at the intrusion. He makes a deal with Farquaad, who needs to marry a princess to put the final touch on his kingdom. Shrek will rescue Princess Fiona and bring her to Farquaad, and Farquaad will give Shrek his swamp back.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 102 ):
Kids say ( 289 ):

The movie is a marvelous fairy tale, with a thrilling quest and a happily-ever-after ending. Shrek has the great themes of enduring myths, about believing in yourself, being loved for the person you really are, and good triumphing over evil. It is also a delicious satire, tweaking all of our assumptions about ogres, princesses, rescues, and even fire-breathing dragons. The voice talents of Mike Myers (as the Scottish-burred Shrek), Eddie Murphy (as Donkey the talking donkey), Cameron Diaz (as Princess Fiona), and John Lithgow (as Farquaad) are all perfect.

The computer animation is breathtaking for its time, like nothing seen before it. The textures are stunning. The glass, fire, clouds, and water seem three-dimensional, and you will feel that Donkey's fur almost brushes your hand. The animation has wonderful warmth and depth, but it also has a great deal of character and wit. The facial expressions and body language are such a treat that the audience can't help thinking that if ogres and donkeys and don't really look like that, they should.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Donkey's statement that Shrek has "that kind of 'I don't care what nobody thinks of me' thing." Is it true that Shrek didn't care what people thought of him? How can you tell? What did it mean to say that ogres are like onions? What does it mean to say that people have layers?

  • Princess Fiona expected Prince Charming to save her, and Shrek came instead. How did she change her mind about him? How did it help her to accept herself? Why is self-acceptance so important?

  • How do the characters in Shrek demonstrate perseverance and teamwork? What about curiosity and integrity? Why are these important character strengths?

Movie Details

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Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

Shrek movie poster: Fiona, Shrek, Donkey, and Farquaad pose in front of a large "S" with ogre ears

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