It’s Shrek’s World…We Just Live In It!
With the DVD release of Shrek 3 just around the corner, Insight Editions has released a beautiful new book with the collector or avid fan in mind. Shrek: The Art of the Quest is a lavishly illustrated hardcover book featuring previously unpublished art from all three of the mega blockbuster films. This includes black & white sketches, storyboards, concept art, models, 3D art…just about everything an Ogre fan could ask for, all in an oversized hardcover that comes in a handsome slipcase.
The first thing you will lay your eyes on are some rare glimpses into Shrek himself and how the initial concept drawings looked far different than the final product. Among those providing some of these concept drawings is longtime comic book artist, Mike Ploog. All of the films major characters are covered including Donkey, Princess Fiona, Puss in Boots, Prince Charming, and Merlin. When you look through the pages you cannot help but be amazed at the intricacy of detail that these talented artists have put into their work. There’s even blueprint drawings of the castle.
It’s not all pictures, though. The book is filled with interesting anecdotes and comments from many of those technical wizards involved on the films. It’s like having DVD extras but with a book instead! With the advancements in animation from the first film to the third, all of the characters were rebuilt. This was a tricky process as their well-known looks had to be maintained while being able to take advantage of the advanced computer technology. The crafting of the models alone was a remarkable undertaking, especially considering this was a 3D animated film. Models were made for each character in a variety of sizes and poses from full body models to busts. It’s not all art though, there’s a section of photographs showing all of the voice talent (Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, John Cleese, Cameron Diaz, John Lithgow, Eric Idle, etc…) hard at work.
One thing about the books from Insight Editions is that you always get more than just a book. Spread throughout is little surprises that await the reader. There are mini-booklets which show additional storyboards and sketches; a mini-diary written by Princess Fiona herself; punch-out cardboard coasters, perfect for your bottle of Poison Apple Cider or Vipers Venom; a 10 page booklet listing the credits for all three films. This is a remarkable treasure trove of Shrek goodies!
It’s a cliche to say it but this is a must have for Shrek fans and would make a great Christmas gift as well. Another wonderful book from Insight Editions!
