Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is the continuing story of the speedy blue blur with a knack for adventure. After defeating Dr. Ivo Robotnik (Jim Carrey), Sonic (Ben Schwartz) is enjoying a moment of peace. Having formed a team with Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba), the three feel unstoppable and ready for whatever challenge comes their way. That challenge soon comes in the form of Shadow the Hedgehog (Keanu Reeves). Shadow came to Earth 50 years ago but was deemed too dangerous to stay loose. As such, the military organization G.U.N. put Shadow in cryostasis where he remained until now. Having escaped, Team Sonic attempts to thwart Shadow’s desire for revenge, even recruiting Ivo to assist them. Soon after, it’s revealed that Gerald Robotnik (also Jim Carrey)—Ivo’s grandfather—has his own agenda regarding Shadow’s powers.
What works in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is contagious energy that contributes to both the humor and action. With this third entry in the franchise, it’s fair to say the Sonic movies have established a working formula. Director Jeff Fowler continues to provide his visions for these films, and the series has clearly benefitted from continuity. With each outing, Fowler gives audiences what they’ve come to want and expect: lots of laughs, over-the-top action, and a script that never takes itself too seriously. The jokes are meticulously crafted and executed. And it’s obvious that the cast has bought into the pitch. It would be easy for this fantastic assembly of talent to phone it in. Instead, every performer gives 110% and it shows. As a result, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is delightful popcorn fun.
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Audiences who don’t enjoy rapid-fire films filled with silliness may not enjoy Sonic the Hedgehog 3 as much as others. The snappy script has a joke minute with every flavor imaginable. And when the characters aren’t dropping puns or pop culture references, they are engaged in chaotic action. The pacing may simply be too frenetic for some. Furthermore, while these movies don’t necessitate previous knowledge from their SEGA game source material, it certainly helps. At the very least, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 builds upon its cinematic lore making this chapter a tough entry point. Conversely, people who go deep on the Sonic mythos will find a ton of easter eggs sprinkled throughout.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a super fun family film. Carrey and the vocal cast in particular have gone all-in, and their dedication results in some good ole fashioned entertainment. While it may be catering a bit heavily to a preexisting audience, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 easily justifies its existence. Highly recommended.
Recommended if you enjoyed: Sonic the Hedgehog, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Transformers One
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is available to see in theaters beginning on December 20th.
