It’s safe to say that, in this age of ever-growing franchises, Paramount’sSonic the Hedgehogseries is one of the strongest and most beloved. Considering how the 2020 original is best known for redoing the titular character’s design after online outcry, it’s clear director Jeff Fowler knows exactly what fans of the blue speedster want and is happy to give it to them. And so comesSonic the Hedgehog 3, closing out the year with perhaps one of 2024’s most anticipated arrivals.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Cast
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 reunites Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails as they face a formidable new adversary, Shadow. With Shadow’s unprecedented powers posing a significant threat, Team Sonic seeks an unexpected alliance to thwart his plans and safeguard the planet.
In some ways, theSonic the Hedgehogmovies are tricky to break into if you’re not a fan of the games. Though Fowler and writers Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington keep the references easy to follow,I still get the impression they’re winking at those in the know. At the same time, it’s a testament to the playful, warm atmosphere Fowler has created thatSonic the Hedgehog 3still manages to be so welcoming to outsiders like me.
Shadow Is The MVP Of Sonic The Hedgehog 3
The Hyped Casting Of Keanu Reeves Pays Off
Sonic the Hedgehog 3picks upsometime after the events of its 2022 predecessor, which saw the apparent demise of Doctor Robotnik (Jim Carrey) and the arrival of Knuckles the Echidna (Idris Elba, still hilarious in the role). Sonic (Ben Schwartz) has settled into his found family with Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter), basking in the peace that comes after saving the day from a mad scientist. Of course, the peace doesn’t last long before Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) are soon called up by G.U.N. (Guardian Units of Nations) to deal with a new threat.
Said threat is the character teased at theend ofSonic the Hedgehog 2: Shadow (Keanu Reeves), an incredibly powerful hedgehog with black and red coloring instead of blue. Shadow’s been kept in containment for years after a mysterious incident at the lab he was housed in, but with the help of a somewhat familiar adversary, he’s gotten out, and he’s looking for revenge.
Fans of the games will know the truth of Shadow’s backstoryfrom the get-go, but I won’t get into too much detail here for anyone who doesn’t know their rings from their Chaos Emeralds. Suffice to say, Shadow’s suffering from a broken heart, a far cry from his fellow anthropomorphic hedgehog.
In many ways, he’s Sonic’s mirror, and that only makes their conflict more compelling, particularly later on when a spoiler-worthy plot point arises.
Reeves' casting as Shadow was heavily rumored before it was announced, to the point where it was assumed he’d be perfect well ahead of anyone actually hearing his rendition. Much like howKnuckles stole the show inSonic 2,Shadow is the standout of the third movie. Fowler effectively introduces him and his backstory through engagingly-staged action sequences and heart-tugging flashbacks. In many ways, he’s Sonic’s mirror, and that only makes their conflict more compelling, particularly later on when a spoiler-worthy plot point arises. Reeves does a brilliant job conveying Shadow’s hurt and steel, adding to his formidable presence.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 Has So Many Exciting New Characters…
That Sonic Almost Falls To The Wayside
On top of the threat Shadow poses, there’s also the return of Carrey’s eccentric Robotnik, who naturally isn’t as dead asSonic 2might’ve suggested. In fact, there are two Robotniks now, as Ivo is reunited with his long-lost grandfather Gerald, also played by Carrey. Though the beloved actor is largely retired these days,he hardly misses a stepin bringing the wacky villains to life, throwing himself into the dual roles with gusto and plenty of his signature physicality.
Despite all that, this is still aSonicmovie, even if the Blue Blur at times feels like an afterthought in his own story. This time around, he’s grappling with the concept of being part of a team alongside Tails and Knuckles.Schwartz’s vocal performance is as energetic and amusing as ever, but the character’s arc drops in and out of the story, giving it a disjointed feeling.Sonic the Hedgehog 3reels it back in by the end, offering a satisfying conclusion that shows the lead character has learned a thing or two from his latest adventure.
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It is true — there are two post-credits scenes featuring thrilling cameos, not unlike the two previous movies. It seems all but certain that Sonic has a number of big screen adventures ahead of him, and I have full confidence thathis fans will be happy to take that journey with him. This is a franchise that has treated its supporters with respect while opening its arms to newcomers. Because of that, the weaker elements of the film feel unimportant in the wake of a genuinely entertaining time that will no doubt thrill audiences of all ages.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3releases in theaters Friday, December 20. It is 109 minutes long and rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor, thematic elements, and mild language.
