Most movies fade from the zeitgeist within a few months of their release, nevermind 20 years later. But take a quick poke around the internet and you will find people still remixing and riffing off Shrek in the weirdest ways possible.
For people who came of age in the early 2000s, “Shrek” was inescapable. When a piece of pop culture seems to be everywhere you go, it is a natural reaction for internet denizens to try and regain a sense of control by converting that content into a series of odd self-referential memes.
But unlike most online communities, the “Shrek” fandom (they prefer the term “Brogres”) is inherently positive. They even have their own pun-based Shrek language. And that is due to one undeniable fact: “Shrek” is good.
The “Shrek” series strikes an almost impossible balance between cantankerousness and sentimentality. It is the story of an introvert forced into a life of heroics, which is a feeling many of us can relate to every time Monday rolls around.
Most importantly, these movies are full-throated celebrations of being yourself, even if you look strange and scary to the outside world. And that is a message that continues to resonate with audiences, even ones that weren’t born when the original “Shrek” films came out. To borrow a phrase from another swamp-based cultural icon, “It’s not easy being green”—but it is a little more navigable when you have Shrek, a lumbering green avatar for outsiders everywhere, forever by your side.
Now Playing
“Shayda”
Australia’s official entry for Best International Film at this year’s Oscars, “Shayda” follows its titular character, an Iranian woman living in Australia, and her young daughter Mona as they find refuge in a women’s shelter. As Shayda strives to create a sense of normalcy for Mona, their new life is threatened when Shayda’s ex-husband reappears.
“Shayda” plays as part of The Triplex’s Limited Engagement Series, from May 10 through 16. Jenn Goewey, director of programs for the Elizabeth Freeman Center, joins us for a talkback following the 7 p.m. showing on May 16.
“The Beast”
A visually stunning romantic sci-fi epic from director Bertrand Bonello, “The Beast” pulls inspiration from everything from Henry James to Michel Gondry’s “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.”
In a near future ruled by artificial intelligence, Gabrielle (Léa Seydoux, “Spectre,” “Dune: Part Two”) decides to rid herself of strong feelings through a process that has her relive past lives. But things go awry as she continually reunites with lost love Louis (George McKay, “1917”), and a mysterious catastrophe begins to emerge. Can Gabrielle and Louis finally find a way to connect, or is history doomed to repeat itself?
“The Beast” plays as part of our Limited Engagement Series from May 10 through 16.
“The Fall Guy”
A throwback action-comedy with Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt.
Ryan Gosling stars as a stuntman tasked with finding a missing movie star, unraveling a conspiracy, and winning back the love of his life (Emily Blunt)—all while getting kicked, punched, and blown up at his day job. Director David Leitch’s ode to the hardest working people in show business is an old-school blockbuster that you need to see on a big screen.
“Challengers”
A sexy sports drama with Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist.
From Luca Guadagnino, director of “Call Me By Your Name,” comes a sexy, intense drama about what it means to win. Zendaya stars as a tennis-player-turned-coach who becomes romantically involved with two tennis players (Josh O’Connor and Mike Faist) and manipulates their relationships to produce results—both on and off the court.
Coming Soon
“Back to Black”
Inspired by the deeply personal lyrics of Amy Winehouse, “Back to Black” chronicles Winehouse’s stratospheric rise to fame and the series of events that led to her tragic death at 27. Featuring a star-making turn from Marisa Abela, “Back to Black” provides an intimate look at the short-lived genius behind one of the greatest albums of all time. Opens May 17.
“Limbo”
A hard-boiled noir that dives deep into the lingering injustices faced by Australia’s Aboriginal people, “Limbo” is one of the most striking movies you will see this year. Shot in breathtaking black and white by writer-director Ivan Sen, Limbo follows detective Travis Hurley (Simon Baker, “The Mentalist”) as he works to reopen a 20-year-old cold case in the heart of the Australian outback.
Limbo plays as part of our Limited Engagement Series from May 24 through 30.
