The Highest Grossing Shrek Films Ranked In 2025.
The "Shrek" franchise has been a monumental success in animated cinema, captivating audiences worldwide with its unique blend of humor, heart, and fairy tale parodies. As of February 2025, the series comprises four main films and two spin-offs, each contributing significantly to the franchise's legacy. With the announcement of "Shrek 5" slated for release in December 2026, anticipation is building, especially with the inclusion of Zendaya in the cast. This article ranks the existing "Shrek" films by their box office gross, from the least to the highest, and provides insights into the upcoming fifth installment.
6. "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish" (2022)
The most recent addition to the "Shrek" universe, "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish," serves as a sequel to the 2011 "Puss in Boots" spin-off. Despite facing challenges due to the global pandemic, the film managed to gross approximately $481.8 million worldwide. This installment follows the adventurous feline, Puss in Boots, as he embarks on a quest to restore his nine lives. The film received critical acclaim for its animation style and storytelling, contributing to its box office success.
5. "Shrek" (2001)
The original film that started it all, "Shrek," earned about $488.4 million globally. While it ranks lower in box office gross compared to its sequels, its cultural impact is immeasurable. "Shrek" revolutionized animated films with its subversive take on fairy tales, appealing to both children and adults. Its success paved the way for the franchise's future installments and solidified DreamWorks Animation as a formidable competitor in the industry.
4. "Puss in Boots" (2011)
The original "Puss in Boots" spin-off delves into the backstory of the swashbuckling cat introduced in "Shrek 2." The film grossed approximately $555 million worldwide, showcasing the character's popularity beyond the main series. Audiences were treated to Puss's origins and his adventures alongside characters like Kitty Softpaws and Humpty Dumpty. The film's success solidified Puss in Boots as a standalone character capable of leading his own narratives.
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3. "Shrek Forever After" (2010)
Serving as the fourth installment in the main series, "Shrek Forever After" grossed around $752.6 million globally. The film explores Shrek's midlife crisis and his deal with Rumpelstiltskin, leading to an alternate reality where Shrek was never born. This narrative allowed for a fresh take on the beloved characters and themes, resonating with both longtime fans and new audiences.
2. "Shrek the Third" (2007)
The third film in the series, "Shrek the Third," garnered approximately $813.4 million worldwide. The plot centers on Shrek's reluctance to assume the throne of Far Far Away and his quest to find the rightful heir, Arthur Pendragon. The film introduced new characters and expanded the franchise's universe, maintaining its appeal to a broad audience.
1. "Shrek 2" (2004)
Topping the list, "Shrek 2" is the highest-grossing film in the franchise, amassing approximately $935.3 million worldwide. The sequel continues Shrek and Fiona's story as they visit the kingdom of Far Far Away, introducing memorable characters like Puss in Boots. Its success can be attributed to its witty script, star-studded voice cast, and appeal to a wide demographic.
Upcoming: "Shrek 5"
The announcement of "Shrek 5" has generated significant excitement among fans. Scheduled for release on December 25, 2026, the film promises to reunite the original voice cast, including Mike Myers (Shrek), Cameron Diaz (Fiona), and Eddie Murphy (Donkey). A notable addition to the cast is Zendaya, who will voice the character of Shrek and Fiona's daughter. This casting choice has been met with enthusiasm, given Zendaya's rising prominence in Hollywood.
While specific plot details remain under wraps, the inclusion of Zendaya suggests a focus on the next generation in the "Shrek" universe. The film's teaser has already sparked discussions and heightened anticipation. Industry analysts project that "Shrek 5" could achieve substantial box office success, with some estimates suggesting it could surpass the $1 billion mark globally. Factors contributing to this projection include the franchise's enduring popularity, the return of beloved characters, and the star power of Zendaya attracting a diverse audience.
In conclusion, the "Shrek" franchise has consistently delivered both critically and commercially successful films. With "Shrek 5" on the horizon, the series shows no signs of slowing down, promising to enchant audiences once again with its blend of humor, heart, and fairy tale charm.
