"Shrek 2" is a 2004 animated fantasy comedy film directed by Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, and Conrad Vernon.
It is the second installment in the Shrek film series and a sequel to the 2001 film "Shrek." The film features the returning voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and John Lithgow, with new characters voiced by Julie Andrews, Antonio Banderas, John Cleese, Rupert Everett, and Jennifer Saunders.
The story picks up shortly after the events of the first film, with Shrek and Princess Fiona returning from their honeymoon. They receive an invitation to visit Fiona's parents, King Harold and Queen Lillian, in the kingdom of Far Far Away. The visit is intended to celebrate Fiona's marriage, but the king and queen are shocked to discover that their daughter has married an ogre.
King Harold, disapproving of Shrek and concerned about the future of the kingdom, seeks help from the Fairy Godmother, who has her own plans for Fiona. She wants Fiona to marry her son, Prince Charming, who was originally supposed to rescue her. This leads to a series of comedic and adventurous events as Shrek, Donkey, and new ally Puss in Boots (voiced by Antonio Banderas) set out to find a way to make Shrek and Fiona happy.
"Shrek 2" is praised for its sharp humor, engaging story, and vibrant animation. The film continues to parody fairy tale conventions and popular culture, offering a blend of humor that appeals to both children and adults. Notable scenes include the rescue mission involving Puss in Boots and a climactic showdown at the Fairy Godmother's factory, featuring a memorable rendition of "Holding Out for a Hero" by Jennifer Saunders.
The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $919 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2004 and, at the time, the highest-grossing animated film ever. "Shrek 2" was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for "Accidentally in Love" by Counting Crows.
"Shrek 2" is considered a standout sequel that successfully expands on the original film's charm, wit, and heart, solidifying the Shrek series as a beloved franchise in animated cinema.