‘Sonic’ sequel delivers fast-paced fun

Two years ago, movie audiences were reintroduced to the beloved Sega character Sonic in the 2020 film adaptation of ‘Sonic the Hedgehog.’

The first ‘Sonic’ movie became a huge hit and was one of the last major movies to be released before the pandemic began and theaters started to shut down.

Now, the world’s favorite blue hedgehog is back for a next-level adventure in ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2.’

After settling in Green Hills, Sonic is eager to prove he has what it takes to be a true hero. His test comes when Dr. Robotnik returns, this time with a new partner, Knuckles, in search of an emerald that has the power to destroy civilization. Sonic teams up with his new sidekick, Tails, and together they embark on a globe-trotting journey to find the emerald before it falls into the wrong hands.

‘Sonic 2’ is a hilarious movie that both kids and their parents will easily enjoy together. The video game sequel delivers some great humor and awesome visually-stunning action.

Just like the first movie, Jim Carrey knocks it out of the park with his portrayal of Robotnik. He can be over-the-top, as usual. But, the one and only Jim Carrey always can make over-the-top work and continues to do it quite well with the Robotnik character. The character, Knuckles, can be a little sinister at times. And, throughout the movie, there are a few moments where he can fit in a few laughs. Also, Idris Elba does an amazing job voicing this fan favorite character.

The action scenes are really amazing and also quite entertaining. The action moments can be really fun to watch and are something the kids will easily enjoy. There are also some really entertaining scenes that only feature Sonic, Knuckles and Tails. At a showing that I attended, the kids really did get into the action and the hilarious moments and even cheered when seeing the main CG characters on screen.

If you enjoyed the 2020 movie and the ‘Sonic’ games, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy this ‘Sonic’ sequel. Filled with really funny moments and some fun action, ‘Sonic 2’ really delivers! During the movie, there are also quite a few easter eggs and references from various ‘Sonic’ games for you to check out. See if you can catch all these references! Also, make sure to stick around for a short scene that gives a subtle clue of what’s in store for the third movie (which already has been announced). The cast: James Marsden (The Boss Baby 2) as Tom Wachowski; Jim Carrey (Sonic) as Dr. Robotnik; Ben Schwartz (Apple TVs The Afterparty) as Sonic; Tika Sumpter (TVs The Haves and the Have Nots) as Maddie Machowski; Natasha Rothwell (Wonder Woman 1984) as Rachel; Adam Pally (Sonic) as Wade; Shemar Moore (CBSs SWAT; Criminal Minds) as Randall; Lee Majdoub (Sonic) as Agent Stone; Tom Butler (Sonic) as Commander Butler; Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails and Idris Elba (Netflix’s The Harder They Fall; The Suicide Squad) as Knuckles.

‘Sonic 2’ is written by Pat Casey (Sonic), Josh Miller (Sonic) and John Whittington (The Lego Batman Movie; The Lego Ninjago Movie) and directed by Jeff Fowler (Sonic).

In May 2020, just a few months after the first movie’s opening, Paramount confirmed that a sequel was in development. The new movie is inspired by the video games ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2’ (1992) and ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’ (1993).

Voice actress Colleen O'Shaughnessey, who provides the voice of Tails in this movie, also provided the voice of the character in all of the ‘Sonic’ projects that have been created (including games and cartoons). In February, Paramount and Sega confirmed that both a direct sequel and a spin-off are in development. The spin-off will focus on Knuckles and will be for the Paramount Plus streaming service.

‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2’ is rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor and mild language and has a running time of 122 minutes.