Shrek Forever After (2010)

The critic finds the fourth film a satisfying return to form and says the franchise is going out on a high. He praises its focus on character and the renewed emotional arc between Shrek and Fiona.

Sharkey finds the film a welcome return to form, with more heart and cleverness than its predecessor. She especially praises the emotional depth and the animation’s successful partnership with 3-D.

Bradshaw finds it an enjoyable, good-natured family comedy and a pleasing end to the series, while hoping it really is the last installment. He praises its relaxed feel and entertaining villain, Rumpelstiltskin, but notes that the franchise has lost the original film’s subversion and impact.

The review’s verdict is not available in the accessible page text. No praise or complaint can be identified because the article is behind a paywall.

The review finds the fourth Shrek film dull in its domestic setup but more engaging once its darker alternate world emerges. It praises the cleverly conceived, dystopian take on It's a Wonderful Life.

The available page information does not reveal Smith’s verdict. The standfirst singles out the film’s sci-fi parallel-universe premise.

Schager finds the film innocuous but unnecessary, arguing that its story repeats the first film without developing its characters. He singles out Rumpelstiltskin’s manic energy as a bright spot in otherwise tepid proceedings.

The critic finds the fourth installment entertaining but tired, with less charm, humor, and heart than its predecessors. Banderas’s scene-stealing Puss in Boots is singled out for praise.

Robinson finds the film dispiriting, faulting its lazy execution and recycled story ideas. She singles out its squandered potential to explore Fiona’s life and the costs of parenthood.

Anderson finds the film an underwhelming, dated installment that borrows too heavily from ‘It’s a Wonderful Life.’ He praises the sight gags and the vocal performances of Eddie Murphy and Antonio Banderas, despite criticizing the animation’s dated look.

The critic finds it a fitting finale that far exceeds expectations. They praise the engaging plot, strong returning cast, and effective use of 3D.

The critic finds this a satisfying, touching finale that restores the series’ sense of fun. The story’s balance of heartfelt moments and jokes earns praise, while the ineffective 3D is the main complaint.

Hogan finds the film a decent but unnecessary end to the series, with little of the humor or charm of the earlier entries. He praises the occasional sweet moments and musical cues, while faulting the weak comedy and largely unused 3D.

The critic finds the film merely okay, though funnier and edgier than its predecessor. He praises Puss-in-Boots’ performance but faults the 3-D presentation and the new villain’s voice work.

Hubert finds the sequel tired and only okay, though it reasonably justifies its existence. She praises its occasional return to the franchise’s dark comic vein and its clever use of 3D in tunnels and hallways.