I always remembered Shrek 2 as an improvement over an already fantastic original. Unfortunately, I haven't seen the original in over a decade, so it's difficult for me to confirm that thinking based on this re-watch (normally I re-watch series all in a row, but this was just a one-off with my niece and nephew). What I can say, is that Shrek 2 offers a tight story that is packed with clever twists on fairy tale tropes, fun pop-culture homages, and near constant humor (both via dialogue and visual gags). I will say that the animation does feel more simplistic than I remember it, but I don't think it detracts from the experience.

As an aside, I have recently watched both Puss in Boots films, which made this re-watch more interesting, as it serves as the introduction to Antonio Banderas' Zorro inspired feline. While there are plenty of elements to his character that have persisted, it was definitely a little jarring how easily Shrek was able to incapacitate him given what we've seen he's capable of in his standalone films. Regardless, I'm excited to see these characters reunite, as was hinted at in the final moments of _Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)_.