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Movie Review: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022)
09 Apr 2022 By Lucas Allen (Web correspondent)
Much like the second game on the Sega Genesis, "Sonic the Hedgehog 2" doubles down on what made the first film fun and the result is wilder entertainment. Once again directed by Jeff Fowler, the sequel finally gives a real Sonic adventure for both the hardcore fans and the casual gamer. It’s also another triumph for an iconic comedy legend in what’s supposedly be his final role in his four-decade career in Hollywood.
Not long after the events of the first film, Sonic (Ben Schwartz) is living a comfortable life in the home of loving couple Sheriff Tom (James Marden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter). However, he longs to be the hero of Earth and would sneak out at night finding action as the heroic Blue Justice. But while the good couple are spending a weekend away for the Hawaiian wedding of Maddie’s sister Rachel (Natasha Rothwell) to the handsome Randall (Shemar Moore), Sonic’s quiet life gets shattered by the return of the evil Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) plus the red-quilled warrior Knuckles (Idris Elba). Both of them are on a quest for the mystical Green Emerald that grants anyone ultimate power.
Fortunately for Sonic, he gets help from the lovable Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and his crazy inventions. Together, these two traverse the globe racing for the Emerald before the evildoers do. They’ll also have to deal with rowdy bar patrons, a runaway avalanche, and an assortment of traps to get to the goal. But who knows what will happen when Robotnik ultimately gets his hands on such great power?
Photo Copyright Paramount Pictures/SEGA
Like any sequel, this one tends to repeat some of the same material as before. Not to mention at times, it continues to rely on pop culture references and goofy lines to pad out the script. The movie even drags a bit in the middle act during the Hawaii scenes. Despite that, the commitment from the actors helps bring in more laughs than before. The addition of new characters also helps to add some freshness to this franchise. Tails becomes Sonic’s little brother and together, the duo share some fun and heartwarming moments. Knuckles wonderfully accentuates as Sonic’s rival and both have some incredible head-to-head scenes.
There are also more action scenes with visual effects just as colorful as before. Besides being a great film for families, fans of the old games will also delight in the nostalgia including references like the level design of the temple scene and the dreaded drowning music that’s still haunts players to this day. Also, the climatic boss fight with the giant robot has to be seen to be believed.
Whether or not he’s retiring from the movies remains to be seen, but Carrey remains at the top of his game sensationally hilarious and over-the-top as ever letting his physical movements and extended vocal range do the work. From his Ace Ventura-like spasms to glowing in his trademark green color, he leaves us with old and new memories to remember. Schwartz is also having a ball giving the title character more to his fun-loving personality. Elba turns in an excellent antagonistic performance, while O’Shaughnessey lends a nice child-like wonder. As for the other human actors, they all do their jobs as well though they’re all overshadowed by Carrey as before.
Both kids and adults will no doubt be excited for Sonic the Hedgehog 2, while gamers alike will also likely be happy with the character’s transition to the screen. There’s also no doubt a third film will likely happen as well as a Knuckles spin-off series on Paramount+. With families already returning to theaters, this movie comes out at the right time when the most fun in big screen entertainment is all everybody wants.
THE MOVIE’S RATING: PG (for action, some violence, rude humor, and mild language)
THE CRITIC’S RATING: 3.5 Stars (Out of Four)
Photo Copyright Paramount Pictures/SEGA
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