“Double the Delight: Jim Carrey Shines in Dual Roles in ‘Sonic 3′”

Jim Carrey returns from retirement to reprise his role as the eccentric scientist Dr. Ivo Robotnik, also known as Eggman, in the third chapter of the series inspired by the Sega video game franchise. “Sonic 3” presents the character of Shadow the Hedgehog (voiced by Keanu Reeves), the dark and red antihero who featured in the mid-credits sequence of the previous film. He is partnered with the sinister Professor Gerald Robotnik (Ivo’s grandfather), also depicted by Carrey, resulting in double the entertainment in this high-energy adventure packed with humor and a generous amount of slapstick that established the “The Cable Guy” comedian as a major box office attraction.

“Sonic 3” integrates CGI animation with live-action environments and actors, commencing with Shadow’s origins, which diverge from the video games. In the mid-70s, the alien with red stripes crash-lands on Earth. Professor Gerald attempts to control the hedgehog’s capabilities while his granddaughter Maria (Alyla Browne) becomes Shadow’s closest friend. When GUN (Guardian Units of Nations) agents accidentally kill her, Shadow swears revenge and is placed in stasis on Prison Island in Tokyo Bay, Japan. Fifty years pass, leading us to the present. The prison’s security is breached, Shadow breaks free, and begins wreaking havoc in Tokyo.

Meanwhile, in Green Hills, Montana, Tom and Maddie Wachowski (James Marsden and Tika Sumpter), the quasi-parental figures looking after Sonic (Ben Schwartz), Knuckles (Idris Elba), and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey), are confronted by GUN’s Director Rockwell (Krysten Ritter), who mobilizes Team Sonic to assist in halting Shadow.

Concurrently, Ivo reconnects with his grandfather Gerald as Carrey humorously breaks the fourth wall, appearing alongside himself while quipping, “It’s akin to watching two characters in a film depicted by the same individual.” The elder Robotnik emerges as the main antagonist of the narrative, evoking sympathy for Ivo, who, like everyone, seeks affection. I speculate that much of Carrey’s dialogue was spontaneously created. Yet, writers Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington infuse ample emotion into the plot, featuring a heartfelt exchange between Shadow and Sonic as they contemplate love and loss.

The storyline revolves around Gerald’s scheme to avenge Maria’s demise by obliterating the Earth using a super weapon known as the eclipse cannon. Director Jeff Fowler ensures the film maintains a brisk tempo, balancing humor with action, rendering “Sonic 3” a delightful experience for both children and adults. The CGI visuals are impressive, and the soundtrack includes tracks from The Prodigy, The Traveling Wilburys, and Goldfinger’s rendition of “99 Red Balloons.”

Reeves’ addition to the franchise is perfectly suited for the role of Shadow. His brooding vocal performance aligns seamlessly with the hedgehog’s dark character. In one scene, Shadow is brandishing a weapon while being chased, instantly reminiscent of John Wick. Elba’s tough-guy portrayal of Knuckles also fits brilliantly, while Schwartz and O’Shaughnessey provide a lively counterbalance to the film as Sonic and Tails.

With double the Jim Carrey, the excitement doubles too, making “Sonic 3” a thrilling experience regardless of your knowledge of the Sega games. I found myself laughing at Carrey’s antics, and while the younger audience may not grasp the references to “Fast and Furious” or “John Wick,” they will enjoy Knuckles likening Shadow to a Pokémon. It’s lighthearted fun with an uplifting message. Don’t miss the credits. Two scenes suggest that a “Sonic 4” is on the horizon.

(3 stars)

Now playing in theaters

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