“Shrek” is a sweet, hilarious, and clever gem that satirizes fairy tales while utilizing some of the same familiar themes consistently found in animated films without ever being hypocritical or condescending. The talents of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and John Lithgow provide wonderful spirit and entertainment that enhance the enjoyment of the experience. Its quick-witted and sharp dialogue, along with a unique knowledge of popular culture, makes the entire process seem fresh, even though it covers well-documented storylines for animated films.

This was an extraordinarily difficult choice, considering the first 20 minutes of “WALL-E” are virtually perfect before attempting to inconsistently dissect satirical comedy that “Shrek” possesses with a near flawlessness and ease that is confounding. “Shrek” was one of only five animated films, joining “WALL-E,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo,” and “Ratatouille,” to be nominated for their screenplays, illustrating the respect for its dialogue. The greatest animated film of all time and the only one ever to be nominated for Best Picture, “Beauty and the Beast,” did not even achieve this esteemed honor.

“Shrek” is unpredictable, savagely funny, and also often politically incorrect without ever being offensive or nasty. It has moments of beauty, such as when the camera peers over the colorfully animated skyline or when the story momentarily pauses and simply allows Princess Fiona (voiced by Diaz) to sing without interruption because of the correct assumption that this would be what the audience would covet most. It is rare to find a film, animated or live-action that has both incredible perception and admiration for gorgeousness, sometimes even simultaneously.