Has Shrek had a face lift? Trailer for new film divides fans

The trailer for “Shrek 5” has sparked criticism from fans regarding the animated characters’ new facial features. The 27-second clip, featuring Shrek, Donkey, Fiona, and a grown-up Felicia (voiced by Zendaya), has been described as “disrespectful” and “AI-generated” by some. Animation expert Oli Hyatt suggests that changes to a beloved franchise like Shrek often trigger nostalgic reactions. While some criticize the altered looks, others acknowledge the advancements in animation technology, noting the improved realism and vibrancy. The trailer also references popular Shrek memes, showing Shrek in humorous scenarios. Despite the backlash, Hyatt believes that the film’s success will depend on its script and character development, and that the initial criticism will be quickly forgotten once the film is released in December 2026.