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Shrek the Third

Shrek the Third, also known as Shrek 3, is a 2007 American computer-animated fantasy comedy film produced by DreamWorks Animation.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Shrek the Third, also known as Shrek 3, is a 2007 American computer-animated fantasy comedy film produced by DreamWorks Animation. It is the third main film in the Shrek series and follows Shrek as he tries to avoid becoming king by finding a different heir to the throne of Far Far Away.

Plot

The story begins after King Harold’s death leaves the throne of Far Far Away without a clear successor. Shrek tries to avoid ruling and instead searches for Arthur Pendragon, while Prince Charming prepares to take over the kingdom.

Production

Shrek the Third was produced by DreamWorks Animation and directed by Chris Miller. It continues the franchise based loosely on William Steig’s Shrek! picture book.

Cast and characters

The film features returning voice actors Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, Julie Andrews, and John Cleese. New voice cast members include Justin Timberlake as Arthur Pendragon and Eric Idle as Merlin.

Release and reception

The film was released in 2007, with a U.S. theatrical release on May 18, 2007. It was commercially successful and later followed by Shrek Forever After in 2010. The film was distributed internationally, including in Canada, as part of the globally successful Shrek franchise that was widely released in Canadian cinemas and home entertainment markets.

Key facts

  • It is the third film in the main Shrek film series.
  • The film was directed by Chris Miller.
  • Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, and Antonio Banderas reprise their roles from earlier films.
  • The plot centres on Shrek searching for a suitable heir to the throne of Far Far Away.
  • Prince Charming attempts to seize power while Shrek is away.
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Canadian context

The film was distributed internationally, including in Canada, as part of the globally successful Shrek franchise that was widely released in Canadian cinemas and home entertainment markets.

Frequently asked questions

What is Shrek the Third?
It is a 2007 American animated fantasy comedy film and the third main installment in the Shrek film series.
Is Shrek 3 the same as Shrek the Third?
Yes. Shrek 3 is an alternate title for Shrek the Third.
Who directed Shrek the Third?
It was directed by Chris Miller.
Who voices Arthur in Shrek the Third?
Arthur Pendragon is voiced by Justin Timberlake.
What is the film about?
Shrek tries to find a new heir to the throne of Far Far Away so he can avoid becoming king.
What film comes after Shrek the Third?
It was followed by Shrek Forever After in 2010.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrek_the_Third
    Supports: Basic identification, release year, director, series placement, cast, and plot premise.
  2. DreamWorks — https://www.dreamworks.com/movies/shrek-the-third
    Supports: Official film description, main cast, and premise.
  3. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/shrek_3
    Supports: Release date, runtime, genre classification, and film synopsis.
  4. TMDb — https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/810-shrek-the-third?language=en-US
    Supports: Original language, revenue, and plot summary.
  5. Netflix — https://www.netflix.com/title/70047102
    Supports: Alternate synopsis and cast list.