Universal Pictures and DreamWorks Animation have announced the upcoming U.S. theatrical re-release of the beloved Academy Award®-nominated comedy, Shrek 2. In celebration of the film’s 20th anniversary, audiences will once again have the opportunity to experience the animated classic on the big screen. Directed by Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, and Conrad Vernon, Shrek 2 will return to theaters nationwide on April 12, 2024.
Originally released in May 2004, Shrek 2 made waves in the box office, breaking records and becoming the highest-grossing U.S. opening weekend for an animated film at the time. Its worldwide earnings have since reached an impressive $928 million. The film’s success solidified the Shrek franchise as a cultural phenomenon and one of the most beloved series in animation history.
Tickets for the re-release of Shrek 2 will go on sale starting March 8th, available on Fandango and through theater ticketing sites across the country. Additionally, audiences can catch the new re-release trailer in theaters starting March 8th.
Jim Orr, president of domestic theatrical distribution for Universal Pictures, expressed excitement about bringing back the iconic film. He stated, “The Shrek franchise has become a cultural touchstone… its impact on popular culture has been profound, transcending generations.”
Margie Cohn, president of DreamWorks Animation, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the universal appeal and timeless storytelling of Shrek 2. “We are thrilled to partner with Universal in celebrating this milestone anniversary by inviting audiences to rediscover their love for Shrek and the fantastical world of Far Far Away.”
Since the success of Shrek and Shrek 2, DreamWorks Animation has expanded the franchise with sequels and spin-offs, further solidifying its status as an enduring cultural phenomenon. Among these are Shrek the Third, Shrek Forever After, Puss in Boots, and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
Shrek 2 received critical acclaim, earning Academy Award® nominations for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year and Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song. Featuring a stellar voice cast including Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Julie Andrews, John Cleese, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, and Jennifer Saunders, the re-release of Shrek 2 invites audiences to rediscover the magic of the Shrek universe on the big screen.