Is Shrek Bad for Kids?

The green ogre and his movie comrades have upended the cliches of fairy tales. But have they lost a sense of wonder?

DreamWorks / Paramount / AP

Shrek with Puss in Boots, Artie and Donkey

Once upon a time, in a land near near by, there were fairy tales. Brave princes slew dragons and saved fair damsels. Princesses and scullery maids waited for brave knights and true love. The good were pretty, the evil ugly, the morals absolute. And lo, it was good. If you liked that sort of thing.

Then a hideous green monster appeared and threw the realm into chaos. Handsome princes were mocked, damsels saved themselves, and ogres and dragons were shown to be decent folks once you got to know them.

And lo, it was even better--particularly for the movie industry. The...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!