Whatever the formula is that director Jeff Fowler has concocted, everyone else making video game films needs the recipe. These films have gotten better as they’re released, which is a rare feat for any series, let alone for a video game film franchise. But “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is by far the best of the trio. They upped the action, lessened the pointless human storylines and added some emotion.
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“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Movie Review: The Video Game Franchise Leveled Up
Staying True to the Lore
Is this a film that is going to wow you? Not a chance. But what’s so significant is that it shows Fowler cares about this franchise and giving die-hard “Sonic” fans what they deserve. Adding Shadow was a huge move in the right direction; as one of the most complex characters in “Sonic” lore, they were able to explore that and open doors for more opportunities to advance this franchise. For the most part, it’s a well-done plot. While it is not the most smooth writing, it is enough to satisfy the hardcore fans.
“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Has the Best Cast Yet
Keanu Reeves joined the family and did a great job portraying Shadow. He brought a different layer to this franchise, as well as more emotion. The backstory of Shadow is one of the saddest of all the characters in the lore, and Fowler did a great job of bringing it to life on the big screen.
Additionally, Jim Carrey came out of “retirement” and portrayed two different Robotniks. In watching, it’s clear how much he enjoys this franchise and role, or he wouldn’t keep doing them; he brings the humor and edge to the films, and he just continues to nail this role.
The Most Action in the Franchise
The action is a lot of fun, and it definitely upped the ante from the previous two installments, but I wish they’d focus a bit more on it. When it’s happening, they are a blast to watch. They’re color-filled and have heavier tones than the first two. But sometimes, I felt like too much filler was happening, which coincided with some of the writing being sloppy. That being said, one can’t deny that “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” was by far the most action-packed of the three films to date.
Overall, it’s a lot of fun and something my kids and I will revisit, like the first two. If they can clean up the writing, leave out the filler and give us less human-focused side stories for the next installments, then the franchise will continue to get even better.
However, it has been unlike any other video game film franchise and has found success by sticking to the lore, expanding upon those storylines and delivering the fan service that people crave.
I’m very much looking forward to watching what they cook up next because this crew, from the directors through the cast, obviously wants to deliver to the “Sonic” fans. Each installment has leveled up the franchise, and the action and emotion-packed “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is their biggest success so far.
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