Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a movie that few, if any, moviegoers asked for, but is nonetheless a valuable addition to a franchise with a reputation for campy fun and quippy dialogue. The film opens with an upbeat, electrifying race through woodsy scrubland set to “99 Red Luft Balloons”. If the audience is in any doubt about what film they’ve just walked into, they won’t be for long. The iconic, blue-furred Sonic (Ben Schwartz) peppers the theatre-going crowd—and his pals, Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba)—with self-indulgent reminders of his unmatched speed and charming wit as he whizzes over tree trunks and hurdles felled branches. It’s a welcome reminder of Sonic’s video-game roots and functions as the perfect segway into later themes of personal achievement vs. shared success.

As Sonic screeches to a halt at the finish line, he is shocked to see his colorful pals waiting for him, already relishing their hard-earned win. Only when Sonic waves a hand through their faces, does he realize his race buddies are holograms, and the competition was a distraction from the real fun, a birthday—or rather, a B “Earth” day—celebration. The festivities don’t last long though. In predictable, action-hero fashion, a Gunn helicopter crashes the party and tanks the mood, requesting Team Sonic’s help in thwarting a new threat. The villainous, smokey furred and red streaked Shadow (Keanu Reeves), with a tragic backstory and a raspy voice to boot, has escaped his cryogenic government-induced slumber. And now, he’s determined to seek revenge on everyone and everything in his path. Team Sonic agrees to help and, as you might expect, humor, silliness, and punchy banter ensues.

Sonic 3 is a predictable watch, but it is not a boring watch. It is a film that knows its audience—sugar-high children and tired parents—and does not shy away from recognizing the debt it owes to its’ fanbase of Comic-Con attendees and gamers. Jim Carrey, delivering a zany performance as Dr. Robotnik and an equally funny performance as Robotnik’s long-lost evil, grand pappy, makes a slew of jokes on the subject, even referencing other fandom touchstones like Green Lantern and Captain Fantastic. Still, Sonic 3 is careful not to ostracize non-comic book minded audience members by relying too heavily on niche lore. The film is easy to follow and even easier to watch with action packed fight scenes, undercover espionage, and cameos from the likes of Shemar Moore (of Criminal Minds fame) and other recognizable faces from previous Sonic films.

And though Sonic’s humor flies as fast and freely as his feet, Sonic 3 isn’t without substance. Themes of teamwork, grief, and found family are abundant and presented in a commendably subtle way. One of the central throughlines of the story is Shadow’s grief and resulting anger at the loss of his friend, Maria. We see his love of her reflected in flashback scenes riddled with goofiness and light-hearted music, but the film grows somber long enough to reflect on Maria’s impact on Shadow’s life; reminding adults and children alike that people are like stars, shining light on others long after the sparkle in their eyes is gone, and the beat of their heart is quiet.

Early in the film, Tom (James Marsden) reminds Sonic that he is a good hedgehog. Not because he is fast or flashy or fierce, but because he didn’t let the cruelty of the world shape him into something he’s not. As Sonic learns to work with his friends to overcome challenges and thwart both Shadow and the Robotniks he begins to realize everyone has the potential to be a villain and the option to make the right choice. This theme is a taut line running through the center of the film, snapping with satisfying payoff during the penultimate action sequence. The ending is one you might expect from a children’s animated romp, but it is nonetheless a satisfying conclusion. 

So, what’s the verdict?

3.5/5 Stars

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is the perfect holiday romp for parents with small children wanting a break from the chaos of the Christmas season. Themes of grief, teamwork, and family make it relevant to children and adults alike, and parents will enjoy the adult-minded jokes, Carey’s zany, Grinch-like turn as Dr. Robotnik, and the manageable run time.

Note: Be sure, to stay for the two post credit scenes for the introduction of a fan-favorite character.