Sonic: The Hedgehog 3

 

Movie Review: Sonic the Hedgehog 3

A bit of housekeeping first. 

Standard gamer disclaimer applies. Not a gamer. Have been aware of Sonic but know nothing of the characters beyond what’s appeared in the films. I only got into this film franchise after streaming the original 2020 film out of pure boredom one weekend and loved what I saw.

Anywho. Moving on.

As the 2024 film season draws to a close, I headed to the theater for what will probably be the last time this year, to take in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Loved the original and its sequel and had high hopes for a three-peat, especially with Jim Carrey returning (retirement my @$$) and Keanu Reeves joining the fun.  I was pleasantly surprised and reassured to see the theater parking lot and more importantly the theater itself full so early in the morning.  Both boded well.

Getting down to tacks of brass, I’m thrilled to report that Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is definitely a winner! Yes!

This hour and forty-nine-minute movie is easily the best film in the franchise which says quite a bit given the strength of the previous two films. From the opening shot through the final credit sequence, I was not only fully engaged, entertained, and emotionally invested, but delighted as the story unfolded.

The music is great. Yes, there was seat dancing and quiet singing to be had. I apologize to no one for either of those things.

The upgraded CGI work delivers a powerful visual punch that allows you to just get lost in the world of Sonic and be swept up in the story. 

Score! 

Speaking of the story, Sonic 3 has a solid script with snappy dialogue, humor, heart, inside jokes, and pop cultural reference that work. Emotion coupled with well-balanced storylines, which do justice to both new and returning characters. 

Great action sequences which thrill and expansive world building without skimping on characterization. Ahhh, the characters...kudos all the way around. The returning crew are at the top of their game and deliver once again in spades. The performances are complex, nuanced, dark, emotional, fun, heartbreaking etc. Three dimensional performances from top to bottom and everyone gets a chance to shine.

Adding Keanu Reeves in the mix as Shadow? A chef’s kiss of casting. Think John Wick as a brooding, vengeful hedgehog. It works. 

As for Jim Carrey returning? He definitely brings his A game. There’s a reason he has the additional credit of “artistic consultant” after becoming more involved in this project than ever before. His impact is significant and power up the entire production.

Sonic 3 is simply a joy from beginning to end. Appealing to young kids up through grandparents. I and everyone in my showing had a blast. There were cheers, applause, speculation on a fourth film, and consternation of having to wait at least a couple of years for any hope of a new installment.  

According to overheard conversations in the bathroom after, the fan service is on point. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 does sequels right. 

Obviously, all involved in this project really care about the product they put out. They’ve taken feedback from the fans, their own love for the characters, and have delivered the goods. No one is resting on the franchise name alone to carry the project, and it shows.  Very refreshing.

Sonic 3 made me glad I made the effort to venture to the theater and see it on the big screen in a packed house. Check it out if you have the need for speed and be sure to stick around for the 2 credit sequences, one mid, one end.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 in three words.

Fun. 

Feels. 

Fantastic. 

A satisfying end to my 2024 film season which had me grinning ear to ear. A true Christmas treat. Looking forward to watching this again,

As such Sonic the Hedgehog 3 gets a 10 from me.

#sonicmovie3