Related movies:

For years, audiences have adored Donkey as the chatterbox sidekick who brings heart and hilarity to the Shrek franchise. But in Donkey’s Big Adventure, he finally gets his long-overdue moment in the spotlight. The result? A spin-off that is not only laugh-out-loud funny but also brimming with warmth, music, and unexpected depth.

From the very first scene, Eddie Murphy slips back into the role like he never left. His voice work radiates energy and comic timing, turning Donkey into more than a punchline machine. In fact, this film goes further than any Shrek entry before it in revealing Donkey’s layers—his insecurities, his loyalty, and his hidden courage. It’s a true character study wrapped in fairy-tale silliness.

The premise is as charming as it is absurd. A magical mishap launches Donkey into a cursed kingdom where no one is who they seem. Suddenly thrust into the role of “the prophesied hero,” Donkey has to rise to the occasion despite being, well, Donkey. This narrative flips the typical fairy-tale arc on its head, making the unlikeliest of creatures the center of destiny.

The supporting cast is a delightful mix of quirks and contradictions. The enchanted broom provides sarcastic banter worthy of Donkey’s quick wit. The baby dragon, equal parts bashful and brave, calls back to Donkey’s unlikely romance from the original films. And the runaway prince, grappling with responsibility, provides a foil that highlights Donkey’s unexpected maturity. Together, they form a misfit ensemble that earns every laugh and every heartfelt beat.

The film’s antagonist, a sly sorcerer dripping with charm and menace, offers the perfect contrast. His magical traps and over-the-top schemes are pure fairy-tale chaos, designed to test not just Donkey’s luck but also his self-belief. Watching Donkey stumble, adapt, and ultimately outwit him is a comedic joy.

Visually, Donkey’s Big Adventure continues DreamWorks’ tradition of lush animation. The cursed kingdom is a colorful, whimsical nightmare filled with enchanted hazards and dazzling sights. From glowing forests to castles that collapse into slapstick chaos, the film thrives on turning danger into comedy.

Musical numbers are sprinkled throughout, with Eddie Murphy once again stealing the show. His comedic singing—a blend of parody and genuine soul—cements Donkey as both entertainer and hero. One standout sequence involving a miscast fairy-tale ballad quickly becomes an instant franchise classic.

The cameos are another treat. Shrek and Fiona appear in supportive yet restrained roles, reminding us of the world’s roots without overshadowing Donkey’s journey. Puss in Boots also struts in for a few perfectly timed laughs, proving the interconnected charm of this fairy-tale universe.

What truly elevates the film, however, is its heart. Beneath the jokes and slapstick lies a story about self-worth and underestimated courage. Donkey may be short, furry, and endlessly chatty, but he embodies resilience, loyalty, and the belief that anyone can be a hero—even those no one takes seriously.

By the end, Donkey’s Big Adventure feels less like a side story and more like a celebration. It honors the legacy of Shrek while proving Donkey’s tale can stand proudly on its own. Eddie Murphy delivers a career-best vocal performance, and the film shines with humor, music, and heart in equal measure.

In short, Donkey’s Big Adventure is a fairy-tale comedy that turns the sidekick into the star, without losing the goofy charm that made him lovable in the first place. It’s a film that will have kids giggling, adults grinning, and everyone leaving the theater humming Donkey’s latest tune.