As someone whose only connection to Sonic the Hedgehog growing up was Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Winter Games, the Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise has surprised me. Since the first film’s release right before the pandemic, the series has proven to be a shining example of adapting a beloved video game series into a successful movie saga, a task Hollywood couldn’t overcome for decades. And to think the starting point for these movies was a poorly reviewed trailer featuring the infamously ugly character design.

Unlike Marvel, DC, and Star Wars fanbases, Sonic fans get what they want and shut up about it (and they don’t ask for much). With Sonic the Hedgehog 3, the series doesn’t just maintain its momentum—it rockets forward, delivering a cinematic experience that balances thrilling action, heartfelt storytelling, and fan service. It’s a film that manages to entertain longtime fans of the Blue Blur and newcomers alike.

The plot picks up shortly after the events of the second film, with Sonic (Ben Schwartz) continuing to grow into his role as a protector of Earth. However, peace is short-lived as the film introduces Shadow the Hedgehog, a fan-favorite character from the games whose enigmatic presence brings a darker and more mature tone to the narrative. Shadow’s complex motivations and his morally ambiguous stance provide an intriguing contrast to Sonic’s upbeat and heroic personality. Their interactions are packed with tension and occasional glimpses of camaraderie, making for some of the film’s most compelling moments. Thanks to the pitch-perfect casting of Keanu Reeves, Shadow is easily the best character on screen as he brings his charisma to a character that could’ve been one-dimensional.

As expected, Jim Carrey’s portrayal of Dr. Robotnik is again a highlight. His eccentric energy and comedic timing give the character a larger-than-life quality. However, this time around, his antics are more different than in previous films, as he also plays Robotnik’s long-lost grandpa through heavy prosthetics. Seeing Carrey come out of retirement to do this double-duty act is a sight to behold, as it brings back that charm and energy audiences couldn’t get enough of during his prime in the ‘90s.

The returning characters also shine in their respective roles. Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey) remains the group's heart, offering unwavering support to Sonic. At the same time, Knuckles (Idris Elba) continues bringing comic relief and brute strength to the team, with his literal interpretations and warrior ethos providing some of the film’s funniest moments. Together, the trio forms a tight-knit group whose chemistry drives the story's emotional core.

One of the most impressive aspects of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is its ability to blend nostalgia with innovation. Fans of the games will appreciate the numerous Easter eggs and callbacks, from the inclusion of iconic locations to subtle nods to Sonic’s long history. At the same time, the film doesn’t rely solely on nostalgia. It pushes the story forward with high stakes, a more complex villain, and themes of identity, loyalty, and redemption that resonate beyond the confines of a family-friendly adventure.

Visually, the film is nothing short of spectacular. The CGI has reached new heights, with Sonic, Shadow, and the rest of the cast looking more vibrant than ever. The action sequences are a standout, with high-speed chases and battles choreographed to perfection. The climactic showdown, involving the chaos emeralds, is a jaw-dropping spectacle that feels like it was lifted straight from the games and brought to life on the big screen.

Despite its many strengths, the film isn’t without its flaws. While the humor is a key part of the series’ charm, a few jokes feel overly simplistic or aimed solely at younger audiences. However, the times when the jokes aren’t childish and out of leftfield, they’ll have the grown-ups laughing for minutes. Furthermore, some side characters, such as Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter), Sonic’s human family, feel underutilized, which may disappoint fans who enjoyed their more significant roles in previous films. Nevertheless, these issues do little to detract from the film's overall enjoyment.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a more than worthy addition to the franchise and a must-see for fans of the series. It balances humor, action, and emotion with a narrative that feels both epic and personal. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Blue Hedgehog or just looking for a fun, family-friendly movie, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will leave you with a smile and a sense of anticipation for what’s next (the mid-credits scene will get fans going big-time, believe me). Every aspect is one-upped profoundly, making audiences want to go fast by the time the credits roll.

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