Shrek the Musical - 9 stars out of 10

Shrek the Musical - 9 stars out of 10

“Shrek the Musical” is awesome and this new DVD release brings Broadway to your living room.  While nothing can ever match the original computer animated film, this stage version comes close.  It’s the same enchanting story (or  parody of Disney, depending on how you look at it) with new songs and gags that will keep you rolling on the floor.  The movie gives the impression that it would be impossible to translate it to the stage, but that just makes the special effects all the more fantastic.  With the original Broadway cast at the helm, the acting and singing is a real treat to watch.  Brian d’Arcy James was born to play the role of Shrek and is easily the most lovable ogre you have ever seen.  The best part of this film is Sutton Foster as Fiona.  I never really developed an attachment to this character in the movie but she is just so cute that you have to love her.  Daniel Breaker is great as Donkey but nothing can compare to Eddie Murphy.  The costumes are amazing as Christopher Sieber is shrunk down to Farquad size, and I love the way that they did the Gingerbread Man and the magic mirror.  If you haven’t seen Shrek on stage, you need to see this film even if only to gain an appreciation for such a complex fairy tale can be brought to the live stage.