Sonic the Hedgehog 3
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ (out of 5)
Sonic the Hedgehog and The Super Mario Brothers have set a precedent for video games translating to the cinema, capturing the hearts of gaming and animation fans worldwide. Sonic (Ben Schwartz) races into theatres for a third time during the holidays with new friends and familiar villains. Can the speedster and his team capture the hearts of his faithful followers one more time? Keep an eye on the holiday box office take to find that answer.
After defeating Dr. Ivo Robotnik (Jim Carrey) and his drones and making a pact with Knuckles (Idris Elba) and Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey) to not use the Chaos Emeralds again, the trio begin to live an idyllic life with Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter) Wachowski. Until something goes wrong at a Guardian Units of Nations (G.U.N.) facility where a speedster named Shadow (Keanu Reeves) has been held captive for 50 years. As the forgotten alien escapes onto the streets of Tokyo, Sonic and his team are asked by G.U.N. Director Rockwell (Krysten Ritter) to assist in his apprehension. What seems like a simple request for the threesome becomes a more significant challenge for them as the black speedster is difficult to stop especially with his former partners who have nefarious plans for revenge.
Suppose there is anything to be said about the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. In that case, it contains constant action and enough humour to entertain audiences. There is even more packed into this storyline for the devoted fans of the Sega-inspired world. Even with the film being named after the blue speedster, he truly benefits from his team by providing more nuance and depth to his adventure. Shadow does add the physical antagonism that defuses the supposed invincibility of the hedgehogs. Partnered with exceptional CGI effects that will keep viewers captivated by physics-defying antics from all involved.
Granted, an emotional backstory to Shadow and his past friendship with Gerald Robotnik’s granddaughter, Maria (Alyla Browne), sets up the black speedster’s anti-hero persona. This adds enough of a dramatic backdrop to make things interesting. Yet, the film belongs to Jim Carrey, who takes on two roles, Dr. Robotnik and his grandfather, Gerald Robotnik. His over-the-top antics and physicality steal every scene he manages to invade, and he is the true star of the franchise. Once again, this proves that the hero is less important for this film to work as long as his foe is larger-than-life; the whole thing works for those who love these characters and care when new characters arrive on screen.
Reel Dialogue Junior reviewer - Gabbie Tiongson
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5)
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 was a thoroughly enjoyable watch, keeping me laughing and on my toes for the entirety of the film. The film was packed with racing action and perfect humour, with a layer of emotional depth that I really appreciated. Seriously, I loved the emotion. The cinematography was on point, with great lighting for the mood and enjoyable effects. I loved how the animation captured the feelings and personality of each character, especially Shadow. The pacing in the film was also good, with nothing feeling too quick or drawn out like other films I’ve seen.
Overall, I was excited to see this film and not disappointed! Not gonna lie I was excitedly kicking my feet with that helicopter scene— that was epic. I could only have asked for more screen time with Knuckles and Tails. This film is perfect for a wide range of audiences, whether young kids, original Sonic fans, strangers to the franchise, or adults! It’s an immensely enjoyable movie that kept me hooked the whole way. Loved Sonic’s quips, the tension and emotions, and Shadow’s highlights— recommend me to your hair stylist.
What can parents talk about seeing Sonic the Hedgehog 3 with their children?
The third instalment of this franchise opens the door to discussions about family, teamwork and revenge. Interestingly, Shadow tends to use revenge and justice interchangeably, but they are different words with different purposes.
Definition of revenge: to exact punishment or expiation for a wrong on behalf of, especially in a resentful or vindictive spirit
Definition of justice: the administering of deserved punishment or reward or the maintenance or administration of what is just by law, as by judicial or other proceedings Can you see the difference?
A great follow-up question to ask children would be which of these do you seek when someone does something wrong to you?
Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” - Romans 12:19
When justice is done, it is a joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers. - Proverbs 21:15
If you would like to discuss the topics in this film, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat with you about this and more.
