The original test animation of the beloved DreamWorks classic Shrek has surfaced online, leaving fans in shock and horror. The unearthed video, which dates back to 1995, features a test animation of Shrek facing off against a dwarf-like creature.
Viewers found the Shrek test animation disturbing
The short clip takes place in a dimly lit village where Shrek is seen dancing to James Brown’s ‘I Got You’. The bizarre scene takes a dark turn when a big-nosed bandit descends from an archway, brandishing a dagger and saying menacingly, “Give me your loot, fat boy.”
Undaunted, Shrek responds by grabbing the thief by the throat, causing his eyes to bulge and uttering the words “Bite me” with a toothy grin. The unsettling sequence ends with Shrek releasing the dwarf, who flies off into the night sky.
Viewers on social media did not hide their reactions, with some describing the animation as “ugly” and “scary”. “I could have lived without seeing that,” one viewer said, while another commented, “That’s **GORRIFYING**.” Some viewers admitted that the clip made them feel uncomfortable, with one saying, “That thing would give me nightmares.”
Released in 2001, Shrek told the story of an ogre’s unlikely friendship with a talkative donkey as he sets out to rescue Princess Fiona from the vile Lord Farquaad and has become a cultural phenomenon. The franchise has spawned spin-offs such as Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), Shrek Forever After (2019) and Puss in Boots (2011), as well as numerous short films. In total, the Shrek films are estimated to have grossed around $3.5 billion worldwide.
While the original test animation may have unsettled fans, it serves as a testament to the evolution of beloved characters and the creative process that ultimately led to the iconic Shrek films. Despite the initial shock, the enduring popularity of the franchise is evident as references to Shrek continue to captivate audiences years after its initial release.
What do you think? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments.