"The greatest fairy tale never told."
Shrek - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
Ogres are like onions. Onions have layers. Ogres have layers.
— Shrek
Context:
Spoken to Donkey while walking through the fields, as Shrek tries to explain that there is more to him than just being a scary monster.
Meaning:
The defining metaphor of the film, explaining that people are complex and cannot be judged solely by their scary or rough exteriors.
What are you doing in my swamp?!
— Shrek
Context:
Shouted at the fairy tale creatures who have been dumped on his land, interrupting his peaceful solitude.
Meaning:
Establishes Shrek's territorial nature and his desire for isolation. It has become iconic in internet culture as a symbol of defensive privacy.
Some of you may die, but it's a sacrifice I am willing to make.
— Lord Farquaad
Context:
Address to the knights at the tournament, sending them on a quest he is too cowardly to undertake himself.
Meaning:
Highlights the villain's extreme narcissism and lack of empathy. It satirizes the trope of the noble leader by showing a ruler who views his subjects as disposable.
That'll do, Donkey. That'll do.
— Shrek
Context:
Spoken softly to Donkey to calm him down, showing a rare moment of gentle validation from the ogre.
Meaning:
A reference to the film Babe, this line signifies Shrek's begrudging acceptance and affection for Donkey. It marks a turning point in their friendship.
And in the morning, I'm making waffles!
— Donkey
Context:
Said excitedly after Shrek reluctantly agrees to let Donkey stay the night outside his house.
Meaning:
Showcases Donkey's relentless optimism and inability to read social cues, contrasting perfectly with Shrek's grumpiness.