25 Years of Shrek

​Twenty-five years ago, a special animated movie based on a children’s book by William Steig premiered in theaters—one that wasn’t like any other pre-existing movie. Shrek introduced the world to a smelly, ugly, fat ogre of the same name who enjoys his filthy life alone in the swamp; he even learned not to care that everybody hates him and wants him dead. He’s continually the stand-in for anyone who received online death threats and was told by bullies, “No one likes you.” One of those who identifies with Shrek includes me. My previous negative social experiences, particularly during high school, made me want to imitate Shrek and put up a wall around my home so nobody could ever come in—friendship and family were just not worth the trouble. Even today as an autistic adult, I’ve become a victim of the modern loneliness epidemic and often genuinely believe I’m better off alone. Thus, Shrek, in this monumental anniversary year ought to be recognized as more relevant than ever.

---

Read More