The most beloved and daring feline from the “Shrek” franchise is finally starring in his own movie. This time it is his turn for the attention as he winds up with characters such as Humpty Dumpty, Kitty Soft Paws and Jack and Jill. Aside from the previous “Shrek” films, this movie is a story of its own. Filled with action, comedy, adventure, beautiful scenery and awesome 3D graphics, this film will not disappoint.
Set different from ones used in “Shrek” movies
The story takes place in a romantic Spanish setting, where everything is filled with warm colors. This is much different than the setting displayed in “Shrek,” where everything is green and bright.
“When we first started ‘Puss in Boots,’ we realized that we couldn’t deviate too far from the ‘Shrek’ world, because that is the universe in which he exists,” Producer Joe M. Aguilar said in a statement. “To completely redesign that world would just throw the audiences off. But we knew we could go pretty far, while remaining in that universe.”
There is a connection between Puss’ personality and the architectural elements within the film. He is romantic and bold, yet humorous. With a watchful eye, one can see that even the houses are asymmetrical and twisted — just like our furry character. This sort of imbalance plays perfectly in the film. There are also several elements that hint to inspiration from other films such as James Bond, “Indiana Jones” and “Zorro.” As a result, this creative fabrication causes comedic situations that seem to mock these film genres.
Film features twisted nursery rhyme characters
“Puss in Boots” is filled with distorted versions of lovable nursery rhyme characters. In the original nursery story of Humpty Dumpty, all we know about him is that he sat on a wall and had a great fall. Well, in this film, Humpty Dumpty is known as the childhood friend of Puss in Boots, after both are placed in an orphanage in a village called San Ricardo. In the beginning of the story, both share a dream to discover the famous magic beans in order to obtain the giant’s golden eggs.
When the characters were children, this seemed like a possible mission but soon, as they aged, the dream began to die off. Meanwhile, Puss discovers his calling to be a hero and Humpty Dumpty begins to feel overshadowed by his success. This only shows depth within the character because it displays a transition of what could possibly be a villain in the story. After a series of betrayal and encounters with the infamous thief, Kitty Soft Paws, Puss is found searching for redemption over his shattered reputation. Therefore, he joins forces with Humpty Dumpty and Kitty Soft Paws, in order to steal the magic beans from Jack and Jill. This may seem like an easy task, but do not be fooled. Jack and Jill are not your regular childlike characters fetching for some water up a hill. Instead, they are large, ugly, rugged adults known to be notorious bandits. This adds to the twisted humor that comes from “Shrek.”
Director aims film at family audience
Billy Bob Thornton, the voice of Jack, said that changing fairy tale characters to be more edgy is very enjoyable in a press conference on October 22. He also shared his fears about nursery rhymes and how young children don’t seem the notice the sometimes dark undertones.
Chris Miller, director of the film, also said at the press conference that he desires his films to be aimed at a family audience.
Without a doubt, this film has the perfect recipe for a sequel. Who would refuse a cat wearing boots and giving you those big sad eyes? Let’s not forget the machismo, bravery and hilarious vulnerability of his basic cat instinct. Not only is the story written well, but the 3D aspect of the film is truly fantastic.
