Mike Myers originally recorded all of Shrek's dialogue with a different voice, which was more traditional and deep. About halfway through, he decided to re-record while adopting a Scottish accent, believing it added more character to the role.

Why it matters: This decision provided Shrek with a unique charm and whimsical nature, making the character more memorable. The Scottish accent became iconic and is often referred to in discussions about the film's legacy.

The character of Donkey, voiced by Eddie Murphy, was initially intended to be more of a sidekick without much personality, but his comedic improvisation during recording transformed him into a vital partner to Shrek.

Why it matters: Murphy's improvisation not only enhanced the humor in the film but also solidified Donkey's role as a beloved character, adding depth to the dynamic between him and Shrek that resonated with audiences.

Shrek was one of the first feature films to use entirely digital animation, a monumental shift in the animation industry, allowing for greater creativity and opportunities for storytelling.

Why it matters: The use of digital animation set a new standard for animated films and showcased the potential for storytelling in ways that traditional animation could not, influencing countless films that followed.

The production team utilized a combination of 2D and 3D techniques to create Shrek's character design, focusing on elements that made him both intimidating and endearing.

Why it matters: This unique character design allowed Shrek to be relatable despite his appearance, effectively conveying themes of acceptance and the idea that beauty is more than skin deep.

Cameron Diaz’s initial audition for the role of Princess Fiona was so convincing that it led to instantaneous casting, despite early uncertainty over whether she would commit to voicing the animated character.

Why it matters: Diaz's casting lent the character both charm and vulnerability, influencing how the audience perceives Fiona's journey from a damsel in distress to a strong-willed and empowered character.

Puss in Boots was not part of the original storyline for the first Shrek film but became a pivotal character later in the franchise after his popularity in 'Shrek 2'.

Why it matters: His late addition showcased the franchise's ability to adapt and evolve based on character popularity, reinforcing the notion that Shrek’s universe is dynamic and versatile.

The soundtrack for Shrek, featuring hits like 'All Star' by Smash Mouth, was carefully curated to mix contemporary and classic tracks, further engaging audiences of all ages.

Why it matters: The soundtrack's popularity helped to bolster the film’s emotional moments and comedic undertones, contributing to its cultural impact and renewed interest in the artists featured.

The physical transformation of Fiona into an ogre was animated with subtlety, reflecting her self-acceptance and true identity. Animators studied real-life reactions to design her expressions.

Why it matters: Fiona's change underscores the film’s themes about self-acceptance and the importance of inner beauty over outer appearances, resonating with audiences on a personal level.

Shrek's script incorporates humor that critiques fairy tale conventions, poking fun at tropes and clichés prevalent in classic animated films.

Why it matters: This satire not only made the film accessible to adult audiences but also introduced deeper layers of interpretation regarding societal norms and expectations.

The dragon character was created by animating both men and women to distinguish between the two genders in the dragon’s movements, leading to a more fluid and dynamic portrayal.

Why it matters: This attention to detail contributed to the complexity of the dragon character, elevating her from a stereotypical 'monster' trope to a significant and relatable character within the story.

Classic fairy tale characters were reimagined in unconventional ways that broke traditional stereotypes—Three Little Pigs become streetwise, and the Big Bad Wolf wears a granny outfit.

Why it matters: These humorous reimaginings not only provided comic relief but also challenged audiences to view these classic characters from a fresh perspective, enhancing the film’s appeal.

Animators often worked late nights, and out of sheer dedication, some would battle fatigue through unique team-building activities, fostering a camaraderie that translated into the film.

Why it matters: This dedication to the project led to a level of craftsmanship in animation that contributed to the film’s unique visual style and storytelling effectiveness.

Shrek is packed with cultural references, including notable parodies of films like 'Titanic' and 'The Matrix,' seamlessly woven into the narrative.

Why it matters: These references significantly broadened the film's appeal, allowing it to connect with a wider audience while delivering humor that resonates across generations.

The final scene, where Shrek and Fiona share their first kiss, was meticulously animated to capture the emotional weight of their relationship growth.

Why it matters: This careful attention to emotion during a comedic film enhanced viewer engagement, allowing audiences to invest deeply in Shrek and Fiona's love story.

The directors encouraged voice actors to improvise their lines, leading to many memorable quotes and natural interactions that shaped the final dialogue.

Why it matters: The improvisational spirit brought authenticity to the characters’ relationships, resulting in a genuine rapport that felt relatable and engaging to the audience.

Shrek had several alternate endings that were scrapped during production, including a version where Shrek and Fiona did not end up together.

Why it matters: These early concepts helped to shape the main storyline and provided valuable insights into character motivations, ultimately enhancing the film’s narrative focus on love and acceptance.

The idea of Shrek being like an onion—with layers—served not just as a metaphor for his character but also influenced the narrative structure, reinforcing the theme of looking beyond appearances.

Why it matters: This central metaphor became a defining element of the film, contributing to its broader messages regarding vulnerability and personal growth.

Shrek was the first-ever winner of the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2002, which highlighted the legitimacy of animated films in mainstream cinema.

Why it matters: This accolade changed perceptions of animated films and opened the door for future animated features to be taken seriously by critics and audiences alike.

Fiona's archery scene was an important plot point that showcased her strength and independence, challenging the typical portrayal of princesses in animated films.

Why it matters: This scene established Fiona as a multifaceted character and contributed to the film’s progressive message about women’s empowerment.

An animated parody of a scene from the movie 'The Graduate' with Shrek's 'Not waving but drowning' moment included as a humorous nod to adult themes.

Why it matters: This blend of humor and subtle social commentary provided layers to the film that resonate with a diverse audience, emphasizing its dual appeal.

At the time of Shrek's production, DreamWorks was looking to establish its unique voice in the animated film industry, setting it apart from Disney's more traditional storytelling methods.

Why it matters: The film’s distinct style and humor paved the way for DreamWorks to carve its niche in animation, inspiring future projects with its irreverent storytelling tone.

Eddie Murphy's impressions and comedic timing were so influential during recordings that many lines were adapted or enhanced based on his playful takes.

Why it matters: Murphy's contributions brought a level of originality to the film's humor that became a hallmark of the character’s personality and appeal.