Dreamwork’s “Puss in Boots” is the latest film in the ever-growing “Shrek” universe, starring the swashbuckling cat who was introduced in “Shrek 2.” However, do not expect to see Shrek, Donkey or any of the other popular “Shrek” characters in this film. “Puss in Boots” is a movie that borrows heavily from its source material, but is its own entity.
Puss (Antonio Banderas) is a smooth, wise-cracking Latin feline with a penchant for “leche” and a nice pair of boots. He was raised in an orphanage with his only friend Humpty Dumpty (Zach Galifinakis), a walking, talking, giant egg. Throughout their childhood, the two dreamt of finding magic beans so that they can steal the mythical goose who lays golden eggs, and eventually leave their home in San Ricardo.
However, when Puss saves a woman’s life and becomes the town hero, he no longer wants to leave. This angers Humpty and leadsto the end of their friendship. That is until years later when Puss finds out that the murderous bandits Jack (Billy Bob Thornton) and Jill (Amy Sedaris) are in possession of the magic beans. Once again, Humpty and Puss team up to find the magic beans, along with the famous outlaw Kitty Softpaws (Salma Hayek).
The film’s music and cinematography are reminiscent of a spaghetti western. The tone is very different than the past four “Shrek” films, and it’s easy forget that these movies take place in the same world. The twisted fairy tale references are still there, but they are more restrained than in the previous “Shrek” films. Instead of overusing fairy tale puns, the film sticks to Jack and the Beanstalk as its main story.
Jack and Jill have been completely re-imagined as giant, gun-wielding outlaws who want the magic beans for themselves.
Galifinakis’ character of Humpty is a constant source of comedy due to his absurd shape and size. Humpty is brilliant at coming up with schemes and inventions, but can barely stand up on his own. Galifinakis’ voice brings a certain level of innocence and sadness to the character, who just wants to be taken seriously and find his place in the world.
One of the best aspects of the film is the 3D animation. In the last few years Dreamworks has been perfecting the art of 3D filmmaking. The film looks gorgeous on an IMAX screen, and the scenes of the characters flying through the cloud atop a giant beanstalk are exhilarating.
The humor in the film is very consistent with the other “Shrek” movies. Some of the jokes and references are obviously for adults, including a marijuana reference and multiple mentions of Puss’ prowess with the ladies. These jokes seemed forced at times, and it is obvious that the writers were inserting them into the film to make sure parents enjoy the experience as much as their kids do. Unlike Pixar, Dreamworks does not have enough faith in their storytelling. Adult jokes are not necessary if the story is engaging, which has been proven time and again by films like “Up” and “Finding Nemo.”
Overall, Puss and Boots is a fun and refreshing revival of the Shrek universe. Since the film takes place before Puss crossed paths with Shrek and Donkey, there is no doubt that this movie will have sequels of its own. While some of the humor from the “Shrek” films is still here, the animation and scenery is far superior. It is definitely worth seeing in 3D, preferably IMAX if possible.
“Puss in Boots” will be released nationwide on Oct. 28.
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