Shrek 4D (The Universal Studios Experience) - Thoughts

I’ve watched the first two Shrek movies from 2001 and 2004, though I haven’t seen the more recent 3rd and 4th installments. While it was fun and I quite enjoyed them, with so many new movies vying for limited free time, the Shrek movies have taken a back seat over the years. In Shrek 4D, audiences are treated to content and presentation that is custom and specific to Universal Studios theme parks. The story continues where the first movie ended, and is independent of the following movies with no bearing on them. Lord Farquaad who was successfully defeated makes a return as a ghost, and tries to capture Princess Fiona yet again. Shrek along with the witty Donkey are left with the task of saving Fiona and foiling Farquaad’s plans.


Being a special attraction at a theme park the runtime of the movie was quite short. The initial 10 minute introduction summarized the first Shrek movie from 2001. The presentation was a combination of video, animatronics, and voice acting. The main feature was a 15 to 20 minutes 4D presentation on the big screen. In addition to having to wear the 3D glasses, the 4th dimension of realism is brought about by mean of audience interactive effects such as water sprays, wobbling seats, and various such tactile effects. The plot is built keeping in mind the 4th dimension, and is short, funny, and crisp. Getting sprayed when Donkey sneezes and feeling creepy crawlies in the scene with spiders, creates for an immersive entertainment experience second to none. Thanks to the intro provided and the easy nature of the Shrek franchise, newcomers will not have a problem getting sucked into the presentation. Anyone who loves Shrek and enjoys a good laugh will love Shrek 4D. Add to that the novelty of the 4D experience and what you have is a sure winner.

Being an expansion of the original Shrek, the key characters of Shrek 4D are Shrek, Donkey, Lord Farquaad, Princess Fiona and Thelonious (Lord Farquaad’s henchman). Voice acting is provided by the same cast of the original Shrek movie, and I was able to quickly relate to the characters. While Mike Myers and the rest of the cast are enjoyable, the star of Shrek is and has always been Eddie Murphy who provides the voice of Donkey. Donkey’s wit alone has been the USP of the Shrek franchise for me.

Shrek 4D is unique to the Universal Studios theme parks and cannot be viewed on DVD. The video is similar to most 3D presentations that require 3D glasses; video is not very sharp and clear, but this is needed for the 3D effect. Colors tend to be a little darker with more shadows than normal. Sound was pretty impressive, with the surround stage being used very actively. The 4th dimension of realism was very impressive, and served the comedic theme of Shrek well. With no other reference point it’s hard to make a comparison, but it’s safe to say that it was a solid well rounded experience.

My Recommendation: Watch It + (A one of a kind Shrek experience)