In an age where moviegoers are obsessed withremakes, re-imaginings, andsequels,it often leaves one wondering if the class of artists in the film industry is creatively stumped. Are there no new ideas? Is recycling now the innovative approach to creation? Or is it a simple interaction of all these factors? While it’s unclear why many creatives seem to be focused on existing projects, it is clear viewers are drawn to rehashed and serial content. As the trend extends across the board to include animated content, a new question arises: why is serial work so prevalent in animation?
There is evidence of the emergence of animation as a creative form as far back as the 1800s. However, the first animated full-feature film was not produced until the late 1930s.Technicolor Creative Studionotes that the 1937 release ofSnow White and The Seven Dwarveswas so well received that it became a significant cinematic influence. Animation is still one of the biggest film subsets in the entertainment market today, and it’s expected to grow exponentially.
Sequels Everywhere
There are over 100 animated films with sequels. In terms of the top tenfavorite animated films with sequels,Toy Story, How to Train Your Dragon, The Incredibles,Sing, Despicable Me, Ghost in the Shell, Finding Dory, andShrek 2are among the most popular. Some of these animated films have amassed an impressive amount of sequels. A fourth installment ofDespicable Me is projected tobe released in 2024. In 2019, they released a fourth installment ofToy Story. Fans ofShrekwill soon have a fifth installment to look forward to, leaving them with plenty to chew on. First, given that over a decade has passed sinceShrek 4 Ever After,is aShrek 5necessary? Secondarily, what is the appeal?
Shrek 5 and the Appeal of Serial Works
Fans rarely need a sequel to a movie unless the storyline isn’t completely developed. An article published recently byThe Daily Bruinperfectly summarizes why moviegoers love sequels. As the Daily Bruin notes,
“Sequels provide an extra layer of storytelling in films, providing multiple options to expand characters and their worlds. And they can shed light upon unanswered questions raised in the original.”
However, from what most can tell,Shrekfans have received more than their fair share of the narrative. The original premise was about an extraordinary princess who needed saving, and Shrek proved to be the one to save her. Despite being a beast of a love story, it was incredibly charming and humorous, with an underlying theme that love will find you no matter where you come from or who you are. As in most fairytales, Shrek and Fiona got their happily ever after. In the end, fans got a lot more of the story. Donkey found happiness. Shrek and Fiona learned to be comfortable in their skin. Finally, Shrek and Fiona raised a family. Considering this, one wonders what story remains for a narrative involving Shrek and Fiona.
Related:Shrek: Every Movie in the Franchise, Ranked by Box Office Results
Shrek 5: Some Clarity on Why
Although no one asked for a fifth installment, one was promised in 2016, and the script forShrek 5was written and ready years ago. Reportedly, the screenplay is close and dear to the writer Michael McCullers. However, word has it the upcoming segment may not even continue the narrative as told in the first four. Michael McCullers, the screenwriter, pegsShrek 5as a “pretty significant” reinvention. AsThe Hollywood Reporternotes,
“Reinvention was called for. There’s been four movies and a lot of material, so the characters are pretty, beloved, and they’re great characters, but you also have to think of a pretty new take at that point.”
This news shows something new, off the beaten path, with mere elements of the original on the horizon. And the prevailing theory isShrek 5intends to breathe life back into the franchise.
Summing it Up
Considering all these factors, the rationale for a fifth film is clear. Primarily,Shrek is ahighly successful franchise. Money is a determinant of project pursual. Another installment was promised but has yet to surface. So fans are waiting in a state of expectation. And films with a built-in fan base have a greater chance of running longer. Finally, this film is a creator’s passion project. Often, success and dedication generate the impetus behind a movie’s re-emergence and continuation. A successful piece of work will usually become a reality, regardless of whether it’s needed or makes any sense if someone is dedicated to making it or an audience is dedicated to viewing it.
Related:Here Are the 10 Best Animation Studios Ever, Ranked
Release Date and Everything Else We Know
Although it has been rumored thatShrek 5will be released in May 2023, that is highly unlikely. And there are also projections for a 2024 release. In terms of casting, no news has been released. However, there have been reports that Eddie Murphy may consider reprising his role. There is a fair amount of speculation right now regarding most of the production, but the fact that the conversation has gained traction speaks volumes. So,Shrek 5is likely to arrive sooner rather than later. But is it worth the wait? That’s a matter of waiting and seeing.
