Brief Summary
This video explores the use of music in the movie "Shrek" and argues that it's a masterpiece of musical storytelling. The video contrasts the effective use of pop music in "Shrek" with its superficial use in "Suicide Squad," highlighting how "Shrek" uses pop music to underscore its anti-Disney message and to represent external pressures on characters, while original score reveals their true identities. The video emphasizes the importance of self-expression and sincerity, as represented by the character of Donkey and the film's main theme, in achieving true happiness.
- "Shrek" uses pop music to critique Disney and represent external pressures on characters.
- Original score in "Shrek" reveals characters' true identities and sincere moments.
- Donkey's musicality symbolizes self-actualization and sincerity.
- The film's climax musically represents the triumph of self-expression over societal expectations.
Shrek as a Musical Masterpiece
The video starts by asserting that "Shrek" and its film series are excellent examples of effective film music. The creator expresses his seriousness about this topic, distinguishing it from typical comedic or cynical takes on "Shrek." He emphasizes that the music in "Shrek" is a fantastic expression of what film scoring can achieve.
Pop Music in Film: The "Suicide Squad" Example
The video addresses the common question about the use of pop music in films, particularly as a replacement for original scores. The creator references a clip from Dan Olsen's "Folding Ideas" video about "Suicide Squad" to illustrate the superficial and blunt use of pop music. In "Suicide Squad," the music choices are so on-the-nose that the meaning of a scene can be understood just from the song title.
The Pop Music of Shrek
The video draws a parallel between the criticism of pop music use in "Suicide Squad" and its use in "Shrek." Examples from "Shrek" include "All-Star" during Shrek's self-care day, "Bad Reputation" during Shrek's fight with knights, and "I'm on My Way" when Shrek and Donkey embark on their journey. Similarly, "Shrek 2" features "Accidentally in Love," "Funkytown," and "Holding Out for a Hero." The creator suggests that the criticism aimed at "Suicide Squad's" music could also apply to "Shrek."
The Anti-Disney Message in Shrek
The video explains why "Shrek" relies heavily on pop music, attributing it to the film's anti-Disney message. The history of Jeffrey Katzenberg leaving Disney to start DreamWorks is mentioned, framing "Shrek" as a multi-layered criticism of the Disney Renaissance. The film critiques Disney's appropriation of public domain stories and the hyper-commercialization of the Disney brand. The inclusion of pop music serves to undermine the theatrical nature of Disney films, replacing traditional musical numbers with popular songs.
Comparing Shrek and Suicide Squad
The video argues that simply identifying the pop music choices in "Shrek" isn't enough. The creator contrasts two scenes: Shrek fighting knights (accompanied by "Bad Reputation") and Shrek rescuing Fiona (accompanied by original score). The first is played for a joke, while the second is essential for establishing the relationship between Shrek and Fiona. The film trusts original score to carry the most emotional moments.
The Role of Original Score
The video emphasizes the importance of the original score by Harry Gregson-Williams and John Powell, particularly the main theme that represents the love between Shrek and Fiona. This theme appears throughout the films, highlighting significant moments in their relationship. The climax of "Shrek 2," where the Fairy Godmother sings "Holding Out for a Hero," is musically intense because it combines the pop tune with the original hero theme.
The Significance of Donkey
The video introduces Donkey as a special character who is always sincere and comfortable being himself. Unlike Fiona and the King, Donkey doesn't hide who he is. He is also the most musical character, constantly singing and making music within the film's context. This creates a parallel where pop music represents external pressures, while the original score reveals true identities.
Self-Expression vs. Societal Expectations
The video explains that the pop music in "Shrek" represents external pressures and societal expectations, contrasting with the original score that reveals the characters' true selves. The transition from the original recording of "I'm a Believer" to Donkey's diegetic performance mirrors the characters' acceptance by society as they are. The film's main theme is that true happiness comes from self-actualization, defying societal norms.
The Climax and Musical Representation
The video analyzes the final conflict with the Fairy Godmother, where the external societal pressure is represented by a pop tune ("Holding Out for a Hero") sung by the villain. This is in direct conflict with the hero's theme, representing Shrek's desire to not abandon Fiona for conformity. This musical representation of self-expression triumphing over societal expectations resonated with audiences. The video concludes by stating that the use of pop music in "Shrek" serves a purpose, unlike in "Suicide Squad," and that's why the main theme of "Shrek" is so memorable.
