Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Delivers a Surprising Threequel for All Ages

by Haley December 18, 2024

– Sonic the Hedgehog 3 deviates from the previous movies by reining in the pop culture references and introducing a serious villain, Shadow the Hedgehog.
– The plot includes a new version of Dr. Robotnik, who teams up with Shadow to seek revenge, creating a complex dynamic among the characters.
– The movie features intense CGI action sequences and successfully balances humor and more serious moments, making it appealing to audiences of all ages.

I initially had low expectations for Sonic the Hedgehog 3, assuming it would be another typical sequel filled with the same pop culture references and exaggerated performances. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the movie successfully toned down the references and reigned in Jim Carrey’s wackiness, resulting in a film that appeals to audiences of all ages. The introduction of Keanu Reeves’s character, Shadow, as a serious villain adds depth to the story, which distinguishes it from its child-focused predecessors.

The movie picks up some time after the events of the previous film, with Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles now living as a sort of family with the Wachowskis. Meanwhile, Robotnik is experiencing a bout of depression, consuming snacks and indulging in telenovelas. However, an unknown individual releases Shadow the Hedgehog, who seeks revenge for a past event, leading to a conflict with Sonic and his friends.

The plot of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is not without its flaws, with certain characters, like GUN director Rockwell, being underutilized and serving little purpose. However, these minor inconsistencies are overshadowed by the improved tone of the film. Unlike its predecessor, the movie’s comedy feels more controlled, with Jim Carrey’s antics being reined in. Although he still maintains his eccentricity, it doesn’t come across as excessive or annoying. Keanu Reeves’s portrayal of the serious and somber Shadow further adds to the film’s credibility.

Shadow’s presence also balances out the light-heartedness of Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. His seriousness contrasts well with Ben Schwartz’s cheerful performance as Sonic, making their interactions engaging. The returning human characters, portrayed by James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, and Lee Majdoub, have less prominence in this installment. However, their familiarity with their roles and evident enjoyment contribute to the film’s overall fun atmosphere.

With the addition of Shadow, the number of CGI main characters increases, resulting in a reduction of screen time for the human characters. This allows for a grander finale, set in outer space, and showcases the impressive CGI action sequences. These scenes are visually stunning and expertly directed, surpassing the climactic fights of the previous films.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 doesn’t revolutionize the franchise, but it succeeds in refining the formula. It scales back on the pop culture references, incorporates more original humor, and places greater emphasis on the game characters. The film strikes a perfect balance, taking itself slightly more seriously without losing the lightheartedness that makes the series enjoyable.

Overall, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 deserves a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. It surpasses its predecessors in terms of tone and character development, delivering an entertaining and visually impressive experience for audiences of all ages.