DreamWorks is set to further expand its beloved Shrek universe with an exciting new venture: a dedicated film centered on the popular character Donkey. This announcement follows closely on the heels of the confirmation of 'Shrek 5', promising fans a continuous stream of new stories from their favorite animated world.
DreamWorks Unveils 'Donkey' Spinoff Amidst Shrek Universe Expansion
Universal Pictures officially revealed on a recent Thursday that a new animated feature titled 'Donkey' is slated for release in 2028. This film will focus on the origins of Shrek's iconic sidekick, voiced by the inimitable Eddie Murphy, who previously hinted at the project in 2025. Directing 'Donkey' will be Charlie Bean, known for his work on 'The Lego Batman Movie' and the live-action 'Lady and the Tramp', with Matt Flyn, credited for his contributions to 'The Wild Robot' and 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish', serving as co-director. Rebecca Huntely, a producer on 'Kung Fu Panda 4' and 'The Bad Guys', will produce the film, ensuring a team with strong animation credentials. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on June 30, 2028, exactly one year after 'Shrek 5's' anticipated release, barring any production delays.
'Shrek 5', confirmed to be in production since 2024, finally received an official teaser this year and is set for release on June 30, 2027, marking 17 years since 'Shrek Forever After'. The film sees the return of original voice cast members Mike Myers as Shrek, Cameron Diaz as Fiona, and Eddie Murphy as Donkey. Excitingly, Zendaya joins the cast as Felicia, the daughter of Shrek and Fiona. The fifth installment is under the direction of DreamWorks veterans Walter Dohm, who has been involved with every 'Shrek' film since the second, and Conrad Vernon, co-director of 'Shrek 2'.
This new 'Donkey' film aims to explore the character's backstory, answering a long-standing curiosity among fans about how the talking donkey came to be. This isn't the first time the Shrek franchise has branched out; the 'Puss in Boots' character successfully led two of his own films, including the critically acclaimed 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish'. Despite some initial apprehension regarding 'Shrek 5's' new animation style, the consistent quality of the franchise, with the exception of 'Shrek Forever After', suggests that 'Donkey' and 'Shrek 5' are poised to deliver more engaging stories.
The expansion of the Shrek cinematic universe through both 'Shrek 5' and the 'Donkey' spin-off underscores DreamWorks' commitment to evolving its narratives. By delving into the origins of beloved characters and introducing new ones, the franchise is likely to continue captivating audiences. This strategy not only refreshes the existing fan base but also invites new viewers to discover the charm and humor of this magical world. The creative teams behind these projects are well-versed in the Shrek lore, suggesting that both films will uphold the high standards fans have come to expect, promising a vibrant future for Far Far Away and beyond.