Shrek, directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson for DreamWorks Animation, returns to streaming in France on December 1, 2025, on Disney+. The feature film, released in 2001 and featuring the voices of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz (French voices: Alain Chabat and Med Hondo), has established itself as a benchmark in American animation, winning the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film.
In this story inspired by William Steig's illustrated book, Shrek, a lonely ogre living in an isolated swamp, sees his daily life turned upside down by the arrival of creatures expelled from Lord Farquaad's kingdom. To reclaim his territory, he accepts an unexpected mission: to rescue Princess Fiona, who is being held in a castle guarded by a dragon. Accompanied by a talkative and enthusiastic donkey, he embarks on a quest that questions heroism, fear of others, and appearances.
During their journey, Shrek and Fiona develop a relationship marked by candor and mutual recognition, until a secret is revealed that profoundly transforms their adventure. The film combines parodic humor and emotion in a universe that subverts the codes of traditional fairy tales while making them accessible to multiple generations.
Adapted by Ted Elliott, Terry Rossio, Joe Stillman, and Roger S.H. Schulman, the film was a major milestone in the history of computer-generated imagery in the early 2000s. Unveiled in competition at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival, it was part of a period when DreamWorks Animation was seeking to define an alternative to the traditional Disney model. Its critical reception, marked by several prestigious awards (including a BAFTA for Best Adapted Screenplay), confirms the importance of its satirical approach and dialogue writing.
With its references to popular culture, its pace reminiscent of an adventure comedy, and its now iconic graphic universe, the film is aimed at children aged 6 and up, as well as adults who enjoy fairy tale twists in the vein of hybrid productions combining humor and fantasy. Its staging strikes a balance between slapstick, action sequences, and dynamic duos, comparable to other animated comedies from the early 2000s, while asserting its own identity.
Shrek
Film | 2001
In theaters July 4, 2001
On Disney+ December 1, 2025
Animation, Comedy, Family | Running time: 1 hour 29 minutes
By Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson | Starring Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz (French voice: Alain Chabat, Med Hondo)
Country: United States
The founding work of the franchise, Shrek continues to stand out for its blend of satire, comedy, and emotion, and for a universe that revisits popular myths with a tone that is both offbeat and accessible.
To go further, check out our selection of new Disney+ releases for December, our guide to streaming releases across all platforms, and today's selection of What to Watch Today on Streaming.
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