Tomorrow’s Horizon: A Fresh Look at Sonic 3 (2024) – Lords of Gaming

If someone had told me as a child in the early 2000s that Sonic would star in a film trilogy, I would have been astounded. As a fan who thoroughly enjoyed both Sonic the Hedgehog (2020) and Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022), I felt thrilled about Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024). As many of you are aware, I extensively reported on the film through 2024.

Now that the movie is released, does this rapid-paced adventure fulfill fan anticipations while providing families and action film enthusiasts with a delightful experience? Or do Sonic and his companions falter after a tumultuous dash?

Not only does the Blue Blur cross the finishing line, but he also presents one of his most remarkable escapades across any format.

What is ‘Sonic 3’ About?

Following the occurrences of both Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022) and Knuckles (2024), Sonic (Ben Schwartz) and his family are savoring a period of tranquility before G.U.N. arrives and requests their assistance. A new peril, an imprisoned alien entity known as ‘Shadow,’ has been unleashed, and Team Sonic rushes to the location. However, after a quick thrashing from the Ultimate Lifeform, Sonic and his group seek additional answers and even collaborate with the returning Dr. Eggman.

For those new to the Sonic franchise, you can seamlessly dive into Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024) without feeling lost. Although they reference numerous games, earlier films, and even the Knuckles series, the narrative is one that anyone can appreciate.

Escape the City – Story

With the introduction of Shadow the Hedgehog and various components featured in the movie, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024) directly adapts the 2001 classic Sonic Adventure 2. The well-paced narrative reflects this, with key set pieces and moments transitioning smoothly into one another.

From Sonic and Shadow battling in Tokyo to the spectacular final third of the film, you will be on the edge of your seat as the action constantly escalates. This represents a shift from Sonic 1 and Sonic 2, which had a more measured pace to allow the human characters to take more central roles.

In Sonic 3, the human characters are effectively utilized, with Sonic’s adoptive parents Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter) being standout highlights. Although they aren’t present for an extended period, their scenes are genuinely amusing, particularly when they assist Team Sonic during a significant moment.

One aspect I appreciated in these films is how they developed Sonic’s character. Unlike in the games, where he is a seasoned explorer who has undergone numerous adventures, Movie Sonic embodies a child who has experienced loss yet remains optimistic.

Sonic 1 notably presents a crucial moment that ignites the entire adventure, where Sonic comes to a profound realization of his solitude and takes the only action he can to alleviate his sorrow.

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The transformation from this isolated child discovering a family in Sonic 1, to finding comrades in Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba) in Sonic 2, to his current state in Sonic 3, was executed beautifully. He exhibits the confidence of the Sonic depicted in the video game series, yet also possesses an intense protective fury. If anyone trifles with those he cares for, they’ll be dealing with serious consequences.

Various iterations of the character explored this facet of Sonic, from Dark Super Sonic from Sonic X, to some memorable scenes from the Archie Comic series, and critical moments in games like Sonic & the Secret Rings. The movie’s final third directly builds upon this aspect, and the resolution brought a big grin to my face.

The rest of Team Sonic also shines, with Tails providing assistance with cool gadgets and playing crucial roles throughout the film. Knuckles is equally excellent, skillfully balancing seriousness and humor as the scenario demands. And if you enjoyed the Knuckles (2024) series, be prepared for a true warrior.

E.G.G.M.E.N.

Jim Carrey is no stranger to delivering exceptional performances in films. One of my favorite movies featuring him is the late ’90s The Grinch, where he embodied the character with complete absurdity. In the Sonic films, he fully embraces the role of Eggman, channeling an extraordinary energy reminiscent of the games.

Eggman is just as narcissistic as seen in the games. However, the cinematic version presents a slightly more grounded character, and with Jim Carrey in the role, it reinvigorates the iconic gaming antagonist.

His presumed-deceased grandfather Gerald Robotnik is also portrayed by Jim Carrey, providing a dark reflection of our good doctor. In many scenes, both characters are present together, and I found myself laughing at how they captured Jim’s signature chaotic humor.

What took me by surprise was Gerald’s adaptation from the gaming narrative. In the games, he is just as unhinged as Eggman, but his descent into madness stems from a significant loss that fuels his thirst for vengeance. In Sonic 3, he follows a similar plot trajectory, prompting the viewer to ponder, ‘Was he always this way?’ It’s a question I never entertained after encountering him in Sonic Adventure 2, Shadow the Hedgehog (2005), and most recently Shadow Generations.

Mr. Unsmiley – Characterization of Shadow

The most significant new addition to the cinematic universe is Shadow the Hedgehog, voiced by Keanu Reeves. Shadow is a character that the games have developed over many years, with recent installments like Shadow Generations: Dark Beginnings and Shadow Generations successfully capturing why he’s such a remarkable figure within the Sonic franchise.

It comes as no surprise that Keanu performs excellently in his portrayal of Shadow. Audiences witness his journey to Earth and his bond with Maria Robotnik through flashbacks throughout the movie. What struck me the most about this character is his reluctance to engage in combat unless provoked.

He is a character who experienced the same anguish as Sonic did in Sonic 1, yet significant distinctions shape their identities. Sonic discovered family and friendships, maintaining an optimistic outlook. In contrast, Shadow was never allowed to mourn on his own terms. He never got the opportunity to meet someone who could genuinely care for him after his profound loss. Furthermore, the most heartbreaking truth is that he was never seen as a person but merely an object that others wished to exploit.

The dynamic between Sonic and Shadow is akin to two mirrors gazing at each other, both striving to comprehend their motivations. The video games delve into a complex rivalry between these hedgehogs, but the film approaches it in a manner that surprised me and I found quite fascinating.

The creative team behind Sonic 3 evidently grasped Shadow’s character well, and when adaptations fall short of understanding iconic figures, that cannot be praised enough.

Never Relenting in the Battle – Audio/Music

For a brand celebrated for its incredible soundtracks, the Sonic film collection has delivered mediocre musical compositions. Although the inclusion of Green Hill Zone from Sonic 1 (1991) and the unanticipated interpretation of the Drowning theme in Sonic 2 (2022) was delightful, I would appreciate hearing more game music in these films. This is especially true given that Nintendo and Illumination excelled in this area with the Super Mario Brothers Movie score.

Fortunately, Sonic 3 recognized this and presents an outstanding soundtrack. While I prefer not to reveal which extra songs feature in the film, the utilization of Sonic Adventure 2’s ‘Live and Learn’ in diverse contexts throughout Sonic 3 was spectacular.

Apart from the fan service aspect of the score, numerous musical pieces enhance the emotional weight of the scenes, providing the necessary impact.

Final Reflections

I anticipated that Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024) would be an enjoyable experience for me, given my affection for the previous films. However, I did not foresee being so thoroughly impressed. With a tight narrative that maintains a brisk pace, a well-developed ensemble of characters, a masterful portrayal of Shadow, and a musical score that pays homage to its gaming origins, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024) is a film I wholeheartedly recommend.

If you plan to join Sonic and his companions this holiday season, let us know in the comments below. Additionally, if you’re interested in more Sonic-related content, feel free to explore our impressions of the Sonic 3 Movie Pack DLC for Sonic X Shadow Generations!