Shrek is not a name that needs much of an introduction. The film franchise is revered by millions around the world, with many believing that the fourth installment being a satisfying conclusion to the series. 

However, on July 9, 2024, DreamWorks made the announcement they would be making a fifth “Shrek” film, 14 years after the previous movie was released. Some were concerned over the news, but most were excited over the beloved characters coming to the big screen once more.

On Feb. 27, a cast announcement video was uploaded on Universal Pictures’ YouTube channel. The video itself is barely 30 seconds, but in that short time, it was enough to change public expectations very quickly. 

Instantly, the viewers are flashed with a visual joke parodying Tik Tok. Afterwards, we get a good look at the main cast, all with a slightly new animated look, along with a brand new character.

Off the bat, people did not take kindly to the design change. Though it was not a major one, the differences are still noticeable enough for most to find it uncanny. It does not help that the previous films have all stayed consistent with their animation while also improving with each installment. 

Another gripe that has been expressed from the masses is the Tik Tok parody. Each of the “Shrek” movies have made plenty of pop culture references, it is one of the key traits of the franchise. But for many, the Tik Tok reference in this teaser doesn’t seem to deliver the same charm. 

It might be unfair to judge the entirety of this upcoming film on this one short video, but this is clearly what the people working on said film want audiences to expect.

There are still a decent amount who are holding hope for the movie, and it is still too early to say that the majority of the public has turned on “Shrek 5.” However, the opinions of most at the moment have undoubtedly shifted from excitement to concern.