Shrek 2 (2004)

In 2004, an American animated comedy film was released called Shrek 2 (2004). It was loosely based on a children’s picture book from 1990 by William Steig also titled Shrek!. The story follows the main characters, newlyweds Shrek and Princess Fiona, who return from their honeymoon to receive an invitation from Fiona’s parents to attend a royal ball in honor of their marriage. Despite initial hesitation, Fiona convinces Shrek to attend and together they journey to the kingdom of Far Far Away with their companion Donkey. Upon arrival, they are met with surprise and disapproval from Fiona’s parents, King Harold and Queen Lillian. During dinner, tensions rise between Shrek and Harold, causing Fiona to retreat to her room in disgust. Concerned about their relationship, Shrek stumbles upon Fiona’s childhood diary and learns that she once had feelings for Prince Charming.

Harold receives a secret reprimand from the Fairy Godmother, who had previously made arrangements for her son Prince Charming to marry Fiona. She gives Harold an ultimatum- either get rid of Shrek or risk losing his own happy ending. In attempt to comply, Harold enlists Puss in Boots to assassinate the ogre. However, their plan fails and Puss confesses that he was paid by Harold. He offers to join forces with Shrek and Donkey instead. The trio sneak into the Fairy Godmother’s factory and steal a ‘Happily Ever After’ potion, which Shrek believes will make him worthy of Fiona’s love. After consuming the potion, they realize it’s not working and suddenly fall asleep. Meanwhile, Fiona prepares to search for Shrek in order to return home, but she also falls into a deep slumber.