Jeff Fowler returns to direct ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2,’ an action-comedy based on the SEGA video game. Paramount Pictures delayed the film due to pandemic lockdowns before they released it to a huge welcome at the box office.

While trapped on a mushroom planet, Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) manages to use the wreckage from his technology for a makeshift signal. To his surprise, the Echidna warrior Knuckles (Idris Elba) answers the call. Meanwhile, Sonic (Ben Schwartz) is causing some chaos with his heroics, but Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter) decide to let him have the run of the house while they go to a wedding in Hawaii. While Sonic chills, he is assaulted by Robotnik and Knuckles, the latter who wants to know about a Master Emerald. Sonic is rescued by Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey), a two-tailed fox who agrees to him find the Master Emerald before Robotnik can get his hands on it.

I was in kindergarten when I played the first Sonic game on the Sega Genesis and I am pretty sure if I had seen this movie in theaters I would have spontaneously exploded with excitement after the credits started rolling. What about as an adult? What can I say? I loved it.

Like the first film, I did enjoy Schwartz as Sonic. While he dropped the arrogant attitude that is frequently seen in video games and television, he brings out his fun-loving side and was quick-witted with plenty of great one-liners. He definitely evolved in a good way in this sequel.

Previously, I thought Jim Carrey was a mediocre Robotnik, but in this one, I honestly thought he grew into the role and performed it way better. The other live-action performers all did a good job as well. I was also excited to hear Colleen O’Shaughnessey voice Tails. She rocked it in this film like she does in the games.

To me, the stand-out was Idris Elba as Knuckles. I predicted he would deliver when he announced he had taken the role and he did on every level. He captured Knuckles’ tough, single-mindedness as well as his sense of duty. He was the perfect foil to Sonic and I cannot wait for the announced spin-off film.

The story was also fun and exciting. I did think the wedding side story slowed down the plot a bit, but outside of that, I enjoyed every Sonic inside joke, Easter egg, and also how the story incorporated elements from the game while allowing the movie to stand on its own. It avoids being politically correct and has some good values thrown in.

I have read some criticisms from salty mainstream critics who have whined about the fan service and about the human characters having less screen time. Whatever. The fact is, this is a fantastic film and I had a good time watching it. I honestly think you can have a good time if you have not played the game or watched the shows.

Bottom line, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is a fun movie with some cool action sequences and great performances. Whether you are a fan of the franchise or not, I think you will have a good time.

FAVORITE QUOTE: What makes you think I need your power?

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Mild language, Rude humor, Violence

Check out the trailer below:

What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, movie, or novel you would like me to review. While you are at it, check out my reviews of The Hyperions and The 355. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more posts like this one.

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