It's safe to say that in this era of ever-bigger franchises, Paramount Sonic the Hedgehog series is one of the strongest and most beloved. Considering how the 2020 original is best known for reworking the titular character's design following online outcry, it's clear that director Jeff Fowler knows exactly what the blue speedster's fans want and is happy to give it to them. And so it comes Sonic the Hedgehog 3closing the year with perhaps one of the most anticipated arrivals of 2024.
In a way, the Sonic the Hedgehog Movies are hard to get into if you're not a fan of games. Although Fowler and writers Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington keep the references easy to follow, I still have the feeling that they are winking at who knows. At the same time, it's a testament to the fun and warm atmosphere that Fowler created for Sonic the Hedgehog 3 He still manages to be so welcoming to outsiders like me.
Shadow is the MVP of Sonic The Hedgehog 3
Keanu Reeves' hyped casting pays off
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 picks up some time after the events of its 2022 predecessor, which saw the apparent disappearance 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 family with Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter), enjoying the peace that comes after saving the day from a mad scientist. Of course, peace doesn't last long before Sonic, Knuckles and Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey) are called upon by GUN (Guardian Nations Units) to deal with a new threat.
Said threat is the character teased at the end of Sonic the Hedgehog 2: Shadow (Keanu Reeves), an incredibly powerful hedgehog with black and red coloring instead of blue. Shadow has been kept in containment for years after a mysterious incident in the laboratory he was housed in, but with the help of a somewhat familiar adversary, he has broken out and is seeking revenge.
Game fans will know the truth about Shadow's story from the beginning, but I won't go into too much detail here for those who don't know their rings from their Chaos Emeralds. Suffice to say, Shadow is suffering from a broken heart, a far cry from his anthropomorphic hedgehog counterpart.
In many ways, he is Sonic's mirror, and that only makes the conflict more compelling, especially later on when a spoiler-worthy plot point emerges.
Reeves' casting as Shadow was heavily rumored before it was announced, to the point where it was assumed he would be perfect long before anyone actually heard his portrayal. Much like the way Knuckles stole the show Sonic 2, Shadow is the highlight of the third film. Fowler effectively introduces himself and his story through engaging action sequences and poignant flashbacks. In many ways, he is Sonic's mirror, and that only makes the conflict more compelling, especially later on when a spoiler-worthy plot point emerges. Reeves does a brilliant job of conveying Shadow's pain and steel, enhancing his formidable presence.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 has so many exciting new characters…
That Sonic almost falls into oblivion
In addition to the threat that Shadow poses, there is also the return of Carrey's eccentric Robotnik, who is naturally not as dead as he was. Sonic 2 could have suggested. There are actually two Robotniks now, as Ivo is reunited with his long-lost grandfather Gerald, also played by Carrey. Although the beloved actor is practically retired these days, he hardly misses a step in bringing the crazy villains to life, assuming both roles with gusto and plenty of his characteristic physicality.
Despite all this, this is still a Sonic film, even if Blue Blur sometimes feels like an afterthought in its own story. This time, he's dealing with the concept of being part of a team alongside Tails and Knuckles. Schwartz's vocal performance is as energetic and fun as everbut the character arc weaves in and out of the story, giving it a disjointed feel. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 returns at the end, offering a satisfying conclusion that shows the main character has learned a thing or two from his latest adventure.
It's true – there are two post-credits scenes with exciting cameos, not unlike the previous two films. It seems almost certain that Sonic has a series of big-screen adventures ahead of him, and I have every confidence that his fans will be happy to take this journey with him. This is a franchise that has treated its supporters with respect while also opening its arms to newcomers. Because of this, the film's weaker elements feel unimportant after a genuinely fun moment that will undoubtedly move audiences of all ages.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 opens in theaters on Friday, December 20th. It is 109 minutes long and is rated PG for action, some violence, crude humor, thematic elements, and mild language.
- Keanu Reeves is a great Shadow, who is easily the film's MVP.
- Director Jeff Fowler knows how to deliver what fans want.
- The conflict between Shadow and Sonic is compelling.
- Jim Carrey is hilarious as two Robotniks.
- Sonic's arc falls into oblivion among the newcomers.