It seems that every year, a new animated feature comes out that pushes the bounds of the medium. I can remember being completely exhilirated by Toy Story when it was released. Since, we've seen Toy Story 2, Antz, Dinosaur and A Bug's Life. All were terrific in their own way. Enter Shrek, a spectacular fantasy that even takes things a step further. Some moments in this film are so life like, you'd swear you are watching a live action movie.

Shrek (voiced with a hilarious Scottish accent by Mike Myers) is actually an ogre that lives a rather secluded life. His life is plunged into turmoil when a barrage of fairy tale characters stampede his swampy home and make his life a living hell. In an attempt to win his home back, Shrek begins a journey that leads him to villainous ruler Farquaad (voiced by John Lithgow). It seems he is responsible for the banishment of the fairy tale critters. Farquaad offers Shrek a deed to his swamp if the ogre agrees to accomplish a mission for him. He must journey across the land and rescue princess Fiona (voiced by Cameron Diaz) from a terrifying dragon. Then he has to bring her back so that she and Farquaad can wed. Naturally, Shrek agrees to the terms so that he can get his lonely life back. With the aid of a blabber mouth donkey (voiced by Eddie Murphy), the ogre sets off to complete his journey.

First off, Shrek is a glorious fairy tale for people who don't like fairy tales. I guess you could call it a fractured fairy tale. And although the film could be called mean spirited (particularly where it's potshots at Disney are concerned), it is quite affectionate when it's making it's stabs. Shrek offers up a witty, satirical, and touching screenplay that throws in as many pop culture references that it can get it's hands on. No fairy tale storyline is safe from it's grasp. And while kids are sure to get a kick out of this visual splendor, make no mistakes, this film has plenty of adult humor.

Shrek is cast to perfection. Myers is terrific in the lead. He lends Shrek humanity and a pitch perfect delivery that really adds depth to this wonderful character. Murphy is brilliant as the comic relief. This is one of the most manic, and hilarious performances the funny man has ever given, and he isn't even phyiscally on screen. Diaz adds pep to Fiona, a princess that is more than able to take care of herself. Lithgow is perfectly viscious as Farquaad, a character obviously modeled after a certain head of Disney.

What's most impressive about Shrek, is that there isn't a dull moment in it. It's extremely likable, vibrant, fast paced, full of interesting characters, and filled with winning dialogue. It's message about liking people for who they are on the inside works well without being pretentious and preachey, and I really didn't want the movie to end. Shrek is a spectacular achievement in film making. It's the first movie I've seen in a while where I can honestly say I hope they make a sequel.