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Historically, animated films have favored either Disney’s musical style—full of character-integrated songs—or pop soundtracks that feature popular hits. Shrek brilliantly merges these approaches, creating a soundtrack that acts as an integral part of the story rather than merely backing it.
This is exemplified by Smash Mouth’s All-Star, which became emblematic of Shrek’s attitude: irreverent, catchy, and embedded into the fabric of its narrative. The film uses music not just to set mood but to propel character journeys and tonal shifts, making its soundtrack a vital storytelling element. The blend of high-energy pop with traditional scoring was ahead of its time, influencing future animated films’ approach to integrating music.