Sonic is back for his second journey on the big screen, and he’s not alone. This time he’s joined by Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) as they face off against Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba), for the universe’s ultimate power. Sonic The Hedgehog 2, aiming to capture the success of its predecessor, hits theaters Friday, April 8th.
Sonic The Hedgehog 2 Review
Fans will be delighted to know that the majority of the film focuses on the journey of Sonic and Tails, as well as their interactions with Knuckles and Dr.Robotnik. As far as the CGI and models, they are A-List. The animation on Sonic, and our new furry friends is consistently excellent, with their designs somehow looking more impressive than the previous renditions (you can even see the moisture on their noses in some scenes).
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Schwartz shows us exactly why he was cast in the first film, returning to play an even better version of our super-speeded friend. While the first film focuses on Sonic’s settling in Green Hills, the second shifts its aim to the meaning of being a hero, a question that appears quite often in the film. O’Shaughnessey voices Tails, a character she is very familiar with (Sonic Boom), playing her best rendition of the character yet. Tails’ motives for finding Sonic are not only-heartwarming, but the delivery really makes you feel for the character, making for some heart-wrenching moments throughout the film. Elba as Knuckles did not disappoint either, a casting I was skeptical of when first announced. Knuckles has the mind of a warrior, forever looking for victory. Knuckle’s story and origin is ripped straight from the source material, another reason longtime fans of the series will be pleased.
On the human side, we see the return of Jim Carrey, James Marsden, and Tika Sumpter. Jim Carrey, first and foremost, is phenomenal in this film. For a film aimed at an adolescent audience, he really delivers in making the movie comedic for the whole family. James and Tika both take a step back, capturing less screen time, while somehow being as, if not more, impactful than the first.
The Verdict
Sonic The Hedgehog 2 is filled with fun and comedic pleasure, making for one of the best video game movies of the decade. Fans will be overwhelmed with callbacks and easter eggs to previous entries in the franchise. With a post-credit scene destined to knock fans off their seats and the third iteration well on its way, only time will tell what’s next for Hollywood’s newest hedgehog.
8.5/10
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