At which major film festival did Shrek 2 have its world premiere?

Shrek 2 had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.

The sequel premiered at Cannes in May 2004, where it competed for the prestigious Palme d’Or. This was a notable event because Shrek 2 was a mainstream computer-animated studio film appearing in one of the world’s most important international film festivals.

Cannes had already shown interest in the franchise: the first Shrek was selected in competition at the 2001 festival. Shrek 2 therefore continued the series’ unusual connection with a festival better known for auteur cinema and live-action international productions.

The film later opened widely in cinemas in May 2004 and became a major commercial success. Its festival premiere should not be confused with its general release date or with award ceremonies such as the Academy Awards. Cannes is held annually in France, while Venice and Berlin are separate major European festivals.