Shrek 2 (2004)

In "Shrek 2," the beloved ogre Shrek, his human wife Fiona, and their talkative companion Donkey embark on a journey to the regal land of Far, Far Away to meet Fiona's parents. However, their happily ever after hits a snag. Shrek finds himself at odds with Fiona's father, King Harold, and the strain on his marriage with Fiona begins to show. Adding to the discord, the formidable Fairy Godmother, who had intended Fiona to marry her son Prince Charming, learns of Shrek and Fiona's union and vows to orchestrate their separation, setting the stage for a hilarious and heartfelt battle for their love. Kelly Asbury's masterful direction shines through in "Shrek 2," a film that not only expands the fantastical world of the original but also deepens its emotional core. Asbury expertly balances uproarious humor with surprisingly poignant themes of acceptance, family, and the pressures of societal expectations. His skillful handling of the character dynamics, particularly the evolving relationship between Shrek and King Harold, and the clever subversion of fairy tale tropes, make "Shrek 2" a standout comedic achievement and a testament to Asbury's talent for crafting stories that resonate with both children and adults, solidifying its place among his best works.