Common Sense Media Review
As much fairy tale fun as the first; some potty humor.
Parents Need to Know
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Shrek 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 23 parent reviews
Parents say the sequel offers humor and entertainment, but it contains content that some parents find inappropriate for younger children, particularly due to suggestive themes and references. While many enjoy the film's charm and nostalgia, concerns are raised about its suitability for audiences under a certain age, prompting discussions about the messages conveyed.
- funny
- inappropriate content
- nostalgic factor
- mixed reviews
- valuable discussions
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 90 kid reviews
Kids say the sequel succeeds by being funnier and more engaging than the original, with humor that appeals to both children and adults, despite some slightly inappropriate elements. Reviewers appreciate the character development and positive themes of love and acceptance, along with strong performances and memorable music, although some warn that certain scenes may be confusing or unsuitable for very young viewers.
- funny and engaging
- positive themes
- character development
- suitable for families
- mildly inappropriate scenes
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
As SHREK 2 opens, Shrek (voiced by Mike Myers) and Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) are blissfully married and honeymooning. When they get back to the swamp, Donkey (Eddie Murphy) is waiting to welcome them home, but trouble begins when Shrek finally meets Fiona's parents, King Harold (John Cleese) and Queen Lillian (Julie Andrews), who were expecting to see a human Princess Fiona married to Prince Charming, not two big green ogres. The queen sees how happy Fiona is and tries to adjust, but the king, pushed by Fairy Godmother (Jennifer Saunders), does everything he can to get rid of Shrek, even hiring an assassin who turns out to be none other than the swashbuckling Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas). But the bigger obstacle to the couple's living happily ever after is Shrek himself, who worries that Fiona would be better off if she really were married to a handsome prince. So he sets out in search of a magical solution, meeting all sorts of new characters along the way.
Is It Any Good?
Shrek's second adventure is pure enjoyment, with brilliant technology and hilarious performances. Shrek 2's script is filled with wit, wisdom, heart, and so-funny-you'll-have-to-see-it-twice comedy, with nonstop humor ranging from subtle satire to slapstick and potty jokes. The movie manages to make fun of just about everything), including its fairy tale sources, and yet be so resonant of the true themes of fairy tales that it's genuinely touching in places. However, not all of the humor hits the mark, such as calling a trans character the Ugly Stepsister.
The technology is impressive for its time. The surfaces and textures are eye-poppingly vivid, the characters are expressive, and the backgrounds are beautiful, with exquisite detail. The excellent voice talent is perfectly integrated with the expressions and gestures of their animated characters. It's going to be hard to think of the dashing and brilliantly funny Banderas as anything but a cat from now on. With characters so tender and charming, you'll cheer for a happily-ever-after ending.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about characters' struggles to get along in Shrek 2. Why does the king really disapprove of Shrek? How are he and Shrek the same? Why does Shrek try so hard to change for his new family?
Fiona's childhood room has images of attractive princes and princesses all over it. Why does this intimidate Shrek? What stories and fairy tales have you been taught? Do you think they affect your expectations for who you should be and how your life might turn out?
What do you think of Fiona's decision to marry someone like Shrek instead of someone from her childhood dreams? Why do you think she'll be happier with Shrek than with Prince Charming?
How do the characters in Shrek 2 demonstrate integrity? Why is this an important character strength?
Movie Details
- In theaters : May 26, 2004
- On DVD or streaming : November 5, 2004
- Cast : Cameron Diaz , Eddie Murphy , Mike Myers
- Directors : Andrew Adamson , Kelly Asbury
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : DreamWorks
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Animals ( Cats , Dogs ) , Competition , Fantasy ( Fairies , Fairy Tales , Magic , Monsters ) , Family Stories , Friendship , Royalty ( Kings , Princes , Princesses , Queens )
- Character Strengths : Integrity
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : some crude humor, a brief substance reference and some suggestive content
- Award : Kids' Choice Award
- Last updated : February 13, 2026
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