The 5 Best DreamWorks Animation Sequels Ranked

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DreamWorks Animation has earned a somewhat unfair label as a studio primarily focused on making sequels. In contrast, studios like Illumination and the ongoing Pixar series have a more distinctive approach in today’s animation landscape. However, it should be noted that DreamWorks was among the earliest to consistently produce theatrical sequels to their successful films. Movies like Shrek 2 showed that these sequels didn’t have to be relegated to home video or struggle in theaters, unlike earlier examples such as An American Tail: Fievel Goes West and The Rescuers Down Under.

The unavoidable success of this particular phenomenon has led to the confirmation that DreamWorks Animation’s major summer release for 2025 will be none other than _The Bad Guys 2_. This upcoming sequel, following on from the successful 2022 film, is poised to join a lineup of box office titans and occasional cinematic gems. It’s worth noting that not every DreamWorks Animation sequel is equally impressive. However, the top five sequels produced by DreamWorks Animation have demonstrated beyond any doubt that they can also be compelling films. So, let the competition begin, _The Bad Guys 2_!

5) Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted

In the third installment of the Madagascar franchise, titled “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted,” the creative team decided to take risks and go wilder than ever before. Thanks to advancements in computer animation technology, combined with avoiding the excessive sentimentality found in the second Madagascar movie, there was an opportunity for a wealth of hilariously absurd humor. Remarkable jokes like those concerning Penguin’s “college fund” or a vibrant musical sequence set to Katy Perry’s “Firework” were far beyond what we had seen in previous films. This extraordinary level of spectacle might be attributed to the addition of renowned indie cinema specialist Noah Baumbach as co-screenwriter.

4) How to Train Your Dragon 2

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What’s thrilling about How to Train Your Dragon 2 is its departure from common traits seen in typical American computer-animated family films, even those produced by DreamWorks Animation. Unlike the fast-paced, energetic style usually employed, Dragon 2 slowly unfolds with poignant character scenes, such as Stoick the Vast dancing with his wife following their reunion. It also isn’t shy about delving into darker themes, particularly concerning the manipulation of Toothless. Moreover, it boasts some of the most vibrant and colorful animation that DreamWorks has ever associated its name with. As a result, How to Train Your Dragon 2 excelled as an exemplary sequel, demonstrating how cinema sequels should be done well.

3) Shrek 2

It’s too simple to judge a movie solely based on its opening song. However, the inclusion of the catchy tune “Accidentally in Love” by Counting Crows at the start of Shrek 2 certainly sets the film off on a strong note. The humor and captivating narrative elements that follow never disappoint, with each gag and plot twist maintaining its momentum. Shrek 2 showcases an impressive level of confidence in its comedy, especially when it comes to new character Puss in Boots. Furthermore, the grandiose “Holding Out For a Hero” sequence in the third act is still a masterpiece across various aspects, such as pacing, editing, and how each action on-screen elicits either suspense or cathartic satisfaction.

While a movie’s quality can’t be solely determined by its opening song, Shrek 2’s use of “Accidentally in Love” kicks off the film strongly. Its humor and storyline are engaging, and Puss in Boots is a highlight among new characters. The final act sequence “Holding Out For a Hero” remains an impressive display of pacing, editing, and emotional impact.

2) Puss in Boots: The Last Wish

11 years after its initial release, “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” could have easily been a simple cash grab with little creative merit. However, this film surpassed expectations by offering a lively and colorful adventure that elevated the visual style of the Shrek universe to fresh, stylish heights. Remarkably, it also balanced a complex tone, skillfully blending gripping action scenes with thoughtful discussions on themes such as mortality, anxiety, and death. Instead of being just a rehash of the original “Puss in Boots,” this film proved to be a bold and innovative motion picture that left the world richer for it.

1) Kung Fu Panda 2

Jennifer Yuh Nelson’s approach to directing in “Kung Fu Panda 2” was noteworthy. While maintaining the playful elements and energetic cinematography from the initial film, Yuh Nelson expanded this sequel into a deeply emotional examination of generational trauma stemming from genocide. This wasn’t the direction many expected a “Kung Fu Panda” sequel to take. However, it was truly impressive to see “Kung Fu Panda 2” excel as both an action-packed movie and an intimate drama.

In my opinion, I took up the task of reinventing the hand-drawn sequences from the original “Panda” in such a way that 2D animation now serves as a reflection of Po’s memories concerning his troubled past. From the introduction of a new antagonist, Lord Shen, brilliantly brought to life by Gary Oldman, to an outstanding score composed by Hans Zimmer and John Powell, every aspect of “Kung Fu Panda 2” is operating at peak performance. This sequel from DreamWorks Animation might not just be the finest in their series, but it could very well surpass their other work, excluding “The Prince of Egypt”, making it a remarkable piece of animation.

The Bad Guys 2 is now playing in theaters, Kung Fu Panda 2 is now streaming on Peacock and HBO Max.

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2025-08-07 00:42