Skip to content
Shrek
A satirical fairytale overturning conventions where a misanthropic ogre finds love and self-worth. Amidst emerald swamps and plastic kingdoms, it celebrates the beauty within the grotesque, proving that even monsters deserve happy endings.
Shrek
Shrek

"The greatest fairy tale never told."

18 May 2001 United States of America 90 min 7.8 (18,271)

Director: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson

Cast: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, John Lithgow, Vincent Cassel

Animation Family Fantasy Comedy Adventure True Beauty & Self-Acceptance Subversion of Fairy Tale Tropes Prejudice & Social Ostracization Friendship & Vulnerability
Budget: $60,000,000
Box Office: $488,628,188

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.

Explore More About This Movie

Dive deeper into specific aspects of the movie with our detailed analysis pages

Similar Movies