Shrek 5's Revamped Design Ignites Buzz, Sonic Joins the Conversation

Shrek 5 has revealed its refreshed cast through a striking new teaser trailer, leaving even Movie Sonic puzzled by the ogre's updated appearance.

In a playful, self-aware video shared on TikTok, the Sonic Movie account offered "tips for green ogres," highlighting Sonic's transformation from his controversial initial live-action design to the polished version released months later.

@sonicmovie Take notes! #sonicmovie #sonic ♬ original sound - sonicmovie

IGN debuted the first glimpse of live-action Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie in 2018, and fan reactions were mixed, with many fixated on the character’s teeth, build, small eyes, and oddly human-like fingers.

After the outcry, director Jeff Fowler opted to overhaul the divisive design of the beloved character, delivering a look that won widespread approval.

Though Shrek’s new design hasn’t sparked quite the same level of controversy as Sonic’s original reveal, Sonic’s witty response has delighted fans all the same.

“It’s rough when the Sonic Movie account is dishing out advice to Shrek 5,” one commenter quipped, while another posted, “Can’t believe they actually shared this,” paired with a crying emoji.

The fifth Shrek film was first announced in 2016 but remained dormant until Chris Meledandri, Illumination’s CEO, confirmed its active development in 2023, alongside plans for a potential Donkey spin-off. Universal Pictures shifted Shrek 5’s release to December 23, 2026, making room for the Despicable 3 spin-off, Minions 3, in its original slot.