As it stands, there's been no word on a fifth Shrek movie in some time. Dreamworks gave a few vague updates back in 2016 and 2018, which suggested Shrek 5 was in production, as Screen Rant reports. Details revealed at the time claim that a fifth installment would reboot the story, though it lacked any concrete information. The absence of any progress since suggests reboot plans didn't pan out.
On the other side of that debate, EconoTimes recently reported that Shrek 5 may already be in production. They don't cite any specific sources, but the argument presented by the site is sound. A release date still hasn't been announced.
Nevertheless, the aspect of a fifth Shrek movie happening is rather intriguing to consider. While there's no telling what a new feature film will be about, the best possible option is to take Shrek (Mike Myers) back to the very beginning.
Not to be confused with a reboot or remake, the suggestion of "going back" is specific to Shrek's journey. He's gone on every adventure imaginable, from fighting a dragon to earning the respect of his in-laws, and the only fitting way to end it all is to face Lord Farquaad (John Lithgow) again.
Should Lord Farquaad Return For The Final Film?
Despite being devoured by Dragon at the climax of Shrek, the villainous Farquaad returned as an apparition in a short film titled Shrek 4-D: The Ghost of Lord Farquaad. He burned at the end, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's the last time we'll see Farquaad.
More importantly, fantastical universes make it possible for dead characters to return multiple times over. Because of that precedent, resurrecting Lord Farquaad for another battle with everyone's favorite ogre seems feasible. But, will the unlikely hero come out victorious again?
While Shrek does have a family, friends, and allies to count on for backup in a fight, he couldn't possibly comprehend what a maniacal villain like Farquaad has planned. The fallen ruler of Duloc spent years in limbo contemplating revenge, and that could end very badly for the ogre clan.
In all likelihood, the resurgence of Lord Farquaad will be accompanied by Shrek's other foes as well. Rumpelstiltskin, Prince Charming, and Dama Fortuna are presumably the allies he'd call on seeing as how they all have grievances with the swamp-loving ogre. Keep in mind that a new villain may enter the fold.
Secondary Villain In 'Shrek 5' Is Possible
Farquaad returning as the main antagonist makes the most sense, but the film's producers should also consider introducing another villain who'll put Shrek's life in jeopardy. Shrek has only been in real danger a handful of times, so the last movie needs someone who'll convince fans that Shrek could die.
The reason is Shrek 5 should hold a level of urgency that calls into question whether or not the titular hero will survive. A movie geared towards children isn't likely to kill off its' main character, but when it comes to Shrek, anything is possible.
For instance, no one expected Dragon to swallow Farquaad whole. But the climax of Shrek ended with Duloc's ruler inside the beast's stomach. That twist was unexpected, and fans should anticipate similar surprises from the final installment, assuming it gets developed.
Whatever happens, fans should stay tuned for any updates by Dreamworks. The animation studio will be the first to make an official announcement, making them the ideal source for verified information on Shrek 5.