Why the Soundtrack to Shrek is Actually Genius - Summary

Summary

The speaker, who is a film music critic, discusses the film "Shrek" as a masterpiece of musical storytelling. They argue that the film's use of pop music is not a joke or a meme, but rather a valid and poignant critique of the Disney Renaissance. The speaker explains that the film's use of pop music is not just a random inclusion, but a subversive commentary on the necessity of musical theater numbers that question the digests of the film.

The speaker also compares the use of pop music in "Shrek" to that in "Suicide Squad", arguing that while both films use pop music, "Shrek" does so in a way that enhances the narrative and emotional impact of the film. They argue that the pop music in "Shrek" is used to represent external pressures on the characters that inhibit their ability to freely express themselves, while the original score reveals their true identities.

The speaker also discusses the use of pop music in the context of the film's main theme, which is the path to true happiness through self-actualization. They argue that the pop music in "Shrek" serves a purpose and is not just there for the sake of being popular, unlike in "Suicide Squad" where the music is seen as superficial and detracts from the film's narrative.

Finally, the speaker concludes by thanking their patrons and encouraging viewers to support their channel on Patreon if they find their work valuable.

Facts

Here are the key facts extracted from the text:

- 1. The text is a transcript of a video essay about the music in Shrek and how it compares to Suicide Squad.
- 2. The text argues that Shrek uses pop music as a subversive commentary on the Disney formula, while Suicide Squad uses pop music in a superficial and obnoxious way.
- 3. The text claims that Shrek has a strong original score that represents the main theme and the characters' true identities, while Suicide Squad lacks a coherent musical identity.
- 4. The text analyzes how Shrek combines pop music and original score in key scenes, such as the final battle with the fairy godmother, to create an epic and emotional climax.
- 5. The text praises donkey as the most sincere and musical character in Shrek, who transitions from singing pop songs to singing the main theme at the end of the first film.