'Shrek 5' Screenplay Already Completed: Sequel to Reinvent DreamWorks Franchise

A new "Shrek 5" is in the works and the film's writer said that it will reinvent the original DreamWorks franchise. Michael McCullers, the movie writer, revealed that the screenplay for the film has already been completed. He refused to say what the story is about, but it has to be an interesting one since the past "Shrek" sequels weren't as successful as the first movie back in 2001.

The first "Shrek" film was released in 2001. It was DreamWorks Animation's first biggest hit before "How to Train Your Dragon" spawned a new visual storytelling technique in 2010. The film has had four sequels and one "Puss in Boots" spin-off since then. After Universal Studios acquired DreamWorks, it began to look for ways to revive its franchises.

Michael McCullers was tapped to write the "Shrek 5" screenplay. The "Boss Baby" writer told the Hollywood Reporter, "It's got a pretty big reinvention behind it." One of Universal's revitalization programs is its shared Monster Universe featuring Dracula, Van Helsing, and the Mummy, among others. Now, the studio will revive the "Shrek" franchise.

The series has had a lot of tie-ins like the "Puss in Boots" animated series and seven short films throughout its run. McCullers said that the script he wrote for "Shrek 5" was very personal for him and, at the same time, it would offer a fresh, new take on the franchise. Fans are doubtful, considering the past "Shrek" sequels that have bombed at the Box Office.

The "Shrek 5" film will reportedly be a reboot sequel of the franchise, although not a direct one. According to Metro, the first movie earned $485m worldwide. Its sequel, "Shrek 2", garnered an impressive $919.8 million. The third film earned less with $799 million, but the fourth movie only got $752.6 million.

Still, the franchise has been one of DreamWorks Animation's most popular and commercially successful series. There's still no word on whether Cameron Diaz, Mike Myers, and Eddie Murphy will reprise their roles as Princess Fiona, Shrek, and Donkey. Since production and animation has not begun yet, the film might air later in 2019.