Opened: May 18, 2007

Directed by: Chris Miller

Starring: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Julie Andrews, John Cleese, Rupert Everett, Eric Idle, Justin Timberlake, Conrad Vernon, Cody Cameron, Larry King, Christopher Knights, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Amy Sedaris, Aron Warner, Cheri Oteri, Megan Hilty, Ian McShane, Susanne Blakeslee, Regis Philbin, Mark Valley, Chris Miller, John Krasinski & Seth Rogen

While Shrek the Third is still a cute continuation of the Shrek franchise, it fails in comparison to its incredibly strong predecessors.

Before King Harold (John Cleese) passes away, he tells Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona (Cameron Diaz) that they’re next in line for the throne. Not wanting the responsibility, Shrek goes to retrieve the next heir Artie (Justin Timberlake). Fiona’s baby shower is ruined when Charming (Rupert Everett) takes control of the kingdom.

The three major storylines – Artie’s succession, Fiona’s pregnancy and Charming’s revenge – don’t balance well. Many plot points feel forced. Shrek, Donkey (Eddie Murphy) and Puss in Boots (Antonio Banderas) are involved in all three and get pulled in too many directions.

It’s not that the ideas are bad. The film is still immensely funny, but everything needs fleshed out more.

Final say: Three’s a crowd. ★★★☆☆