Sonic: the Hedgehog 3 (2025) Movie Recap-Criticism and analysis
The spirit of the ‘90s is alive and well in “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” featuring Jim Carrey in not one, but two delightfully unhinged roles that evoke his comic genius from three decades ago.
Longing for the slapstick antics of “Dumb & Dumber”? Look no further. Carrey reprises his role as the malevolent mastermind from the previous Sonic films while also portraying Gerald Robotnik, the equally sinister grandfather of Dr. Ivo Robotnik. Both characters are verbose and sport elaborate mustaches. Their reunion includes a fourth-wall break that surpasses anything in this week’s “Mufasa: The Lion King.”
However, the real draw is Sonic, once again voiced with fast-paced swagger and sass by Ben Schwartz. Despite Sonic’s presence, his co-stars often steal the spotlight in this brisk third installment from director Jeff Fowler. Alongside Carrey, Keanu Reeves brings his signature quiet intensity to the role of Shadow. Imagine John Wick as a super-powered, diabolical space hedgehog, and you’ll get a sense of Reeves’ serious approach to the role. Whoa.
In summary, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” surpasses expectations as a video game adaptation, a threequel, and a family-friendly Christmas release. Even if you’re not a fan of the Sega video game series, like me—having never played it—you can still enjoy the film.
“Sonic 3” takes a bit to find its footing, starting off with a lot of corniness. The script, penned by returning writers Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and Josh Whittington, includes numerous adolescent insults and pop culture references. For many viewers, this is a feature, not a bug, as it’s true to Sonic’s character.
Once Carrey’s high-energy performances hit their stride, the film ventures into wildly imaginative territory, appealing to both adults and the kids who brought them to the theater.
The movie begins with the red-striped Shadow escaping from Prison Island after 50 years, seeking revenge. Meanwhile, Sonic, Knuckles (a charmingly goofy Idris Elba), and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessy) are enjoying a peaceful life in Green Hills, Montana, with Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter). Human characters are less integral this time, aside from Carrey’s roles.
The furry space creatures must band together to stop their formidable foe, with former rivals realizing they need to work together. This involves pursuing the ultimate McGuffin, which the Robotniks also seek to power their massive weapon of doom. The story remains whimsical until, unexpectedly, real stakes emerge.
The visual effects are mostly seamless in this live-action-animation hybrid. Cinematographer Brandon Trost gives a vibrant look to everything from forest chases to dance numbers, matching the lively material. (He also recently filmed Marielle Heller’s “Nightbitch,” showcasing his range.) Composer Tom Holkenborg, aka Junkie XL, returns with a melodramatic score that complements the film’s adventures.
The spirit of the ‘90s is alive and well in “Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” featuring Jim Carrey in not one, but two delightfully unhinged roles that evoke his comic genius from three decades ago.
Longing for the slapstick antics of “Dumb & Dumber”? Look no further. Carrey reprises his role as the malevolent mastermind from the previous Sonic films while also portraying Gerald Robotnik, the equally sinister grandfather of Dr. Ivo Robotnik. Both characters are verbose and sport elaborate mustaches. Their reunion includes a fourth-wall break that surpasses anything in this week’s “Mufasa: The Lion King.”
However, the real draw is Sonic, once again voiced with fast-paced swagger and sass by Ben Schwartz. Despite Sonic’s presence, his co-stars often steal the spotlight in this brisk third installment from director Jeff Fowler. Alongside Carrey, Keanu Reeves brings his signature quiet intensity to the role of Shadow. Imagine John Wick as a super-powered, diabolical space hedgehog, and you’ll get a sense of Reeves’ serious approach to the role. Whoa.
In summary, “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” surpasses expectations as a video game adaptation, a threequel, and a family-friendly Christmas release. Even if you’re not a fan of the Sega video game series, like me—having never played it—you can still enjoy the film.
“Sonic 3” takes a bit to find its footing, starting off with a lot of corniness. The script, penned by returning writers Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and Josh Whittington, includes numerous adolescent insults and pop culture references. For many viewers, this is a feature, not a bug, as it’s true to Sonic’s character.
Once Carrey’s high-energy performances hit their stride, the film ventures into wildly imaginative territory, appealing to both adults and the kids who brought them to the theater.
The movie begins with the red-striped Shadow escaping from Prison Island after 50 years, seeking revenge. Meanwhile, Sonic, Knuckles (a charmingly goofy Idris Elba), and Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessy) are enjoying a peaceful life in Green Hills, Montana, with Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter). Human characters are less integral this time, aside from Carrey’s roles.
The furry space creatures must band together to stop their formidable foe, with former rivals realizing they need to work together. This involves pursuing the ultimate McGuffin, which the Robotniks also seek to power their massive weapon of doom. The story remains whimsical until, unexpectedly, real stakes emerge.
The visual effects are mostly seamless in this live-action-animation hybrid. Cinematographer Brandon Trost gives a vibrant look to everything from forest chases to dance numbers, matching the lively material. (He also recently filmed Marielle Heller’s “Nightbitch,” showcasing his range.) Composer Tom Holkenborg, aka Junkie XL, returns with a melodramatic score that complements the film’s adventures.
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