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Shrek has something good that (horrors!) Giles does not, at least to my recollection. There is what I would call a 'Brothers Grimm-like' metamorphosis in the female lead. (Which reminds me of Ladyhawk.) Tolkien doesn't indulge in metamorphosis in Giles. It adds depth to Shrek such that Fiona must choose her destiny, whether to follow the proud but empty traditions of Farquaad's court, or choose the rich but humble life (one would expect) of ogreness. And it requires an inner growth in Shrek himself. There is inner growth in Giles too, but it has to do with simple minded self-interest being overcome by courage and justice for the many.
I'm not sure what this adds to the discussion, but it's what occurred to me.
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