The rapid (and highly controversial) riseof AI-generated contenthas led to some nightmarish creations, and the latest example of that involves the world’s most famous ogre,Shrek. Known to be a lovable, albeit brash ogre, for the most part, the film franchise doesn’t contain too many dark undertones. The lighthearted films feature updated adaptations of several classic childhood fairy tales with a modern spin. However, a new take onShrektakes the character on a gritty, gruesome journey unlike anything seen before in the DreamWorks franchise.
Someone with a creative mind and some free time took toRedditto share a series of photos featuring Shrek, reimagined in the most violent way yet. The first image features the titular character facing off with a pale, mysterious version of Princess Fiona in the woods.
You can check out this reimagined version ofShrekbelow.
Further images center around Shrek, with weapons in hand, ready to take on a much smaller trio of guards, presumably those working for Lord Farquaad, with the final image depicting a climactic showdown between Shrek and a hyperrealistic version of Dragon, this time resembling a creature straight out ofGame of Thrones.
Shrek Isn’t The Only Famous Family Franchise Going Dark
While the images showcasing a dark and violent version ofShrekare only renderings (for now, at least), it’s not the only franchise to get a horror-inspired makeover recently. A horrifying example of this trend can be seen in the ever-expandinghorror crossover event, Poohniverse. Once Pooh and his Hundred Acre Wood friends entered the public domain, a gory and gruesome franchise was born, featuring the characters as new faces of fear.
Another classic children’s character getting a monstrous makeover is Mickey Mouse. TheSteamboatWillieiterations of the beloved Walt Disney creation also entered the public domain, spawning content creators to take the character to the dark side. TheSteamboat Willie horror moviehas the world’s most famous mouse embarking on a bloodthirsty murder spree on a ferry boat.
Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey Director Says Steamboat Willie Projects ‘Might Get a Bit of a Shock Soon’
Winnie-The-Pooh: Blood and Honey director warns others on using Steamboat Willie.
The AI images of Shrek may be jarring for longtime fans of the ogre but, thankfully, the more familiar Mike Myers character will soon take center stage once again. Earlier this summer,Shrek5was officially announced, signaling the first movie in the beloved franchise sinceShrekForeverAfterin 2010. Not much is known about the premise of the fifth installment of the film series, but all the principal cast members will be returning. For anyone who needs a refresher course, thishugely exciting casting updatemeans Eddie Murphy (Donkey), Cameron Diaz (Princess Fiona), and Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots) are all likely to join Myers in the long-awaited sequel.
Shrek 5is slated to premiere in theaters on July 06, 2025.
