Puss in Boots

It was back in 2004 when we were first introduced to Dreamworks’ swashbuckling, Spanish-talking, sword-wielding feline. Now, seven years later, Puss in Boots is finally the protagonist of his own film. Dreamworks have weaved plenty more familiar fairytale characters into the movie, which mashes together the stories of Puss in Boots, Humpty Dumpty, Jack and Jill, Jack and the Beanstalk and some characters of their own invention. Notable amongst these is Kitty Softpaws (Salma Hayek), a thief with just as much pizzazz as Puss himself (Antonio Banderas). Their initial rivalry has to be put aside, as they are forced to work together to recover the magic beans from an evil Jack and Jill and steal the golden goose eggs from the giant’s castle.

Fast-paced and packed full to the brim with witty one-liners, wonderful performances – Antonio Banderas steals the show – and gloriously animated set-pieces, the film is an all-round joy to the eyes and ears. Henry Jackman (X-Men: First Class) once again pulls the cat out the bag, if you’ll pardon the pun, with another fantastic score; fast and flamboyant and featuring the phenomenal Mexican guitarist duo Rodrigo y Gabriela, the soundtrack is vibrant, dynamic and enthralling throughout, a perfect companion to the movie.

Dreamworks once again show their individuality by avoiding becoming Pixar-copycats, and ploughing ahead with their own unashamedly entertaining and bombastic style. Chris Miller returns to the helm as director (Shrek, Shrek 2 and Shrek the Third), with a lot more vigour than he left it, and the Shrek universe is once again beautifully rendered and instantly recognisable, with a spark of magic reminiscent of the first instalment.

In short, Puss in Boots is a highly energetic, beautifully animated and wonderfully endearing return to the Shrek franchise; a charmer very few will be able to resist.