Nerdly » ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ Blu-ray Review

04th Jun2020

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ Blu-ray Review

by Alain Elliott

Stars: Ben Schwartz, Jim Carrey, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Natasha Rothwell, Adam Pally, Lee Majdoub, Neal McDonough, Tom Butler, Frank C. Turner | Written by Patrick Casey, Josh Miller | Directed by Jeff Fowler

Things didn’t exactly get off to a flying start with the Sonic the Hedgehog movie. When the initial trailer was released, fans were not happy at all with how Sega’s lead mascot looked. Especially his ‘human-like’ teeth it seemed. Personally, I wasn’t that bothered but the filmmakers were it seems, as Sonic got a quick makeover in time for its release and everyone was happy. But with all that going on, is the movie actually any good?

Fans of the games will definitely be pleased. Right from the opening scenes we see where Sonic grew up and we see him run. Most importantly, both of these things feel like they have been ripped straight out of the video game. The green hills and the loop the loops and of course those sound effects, it all feels very familiar. That feeling that this is like a video game remains throughout but doesn’t overshadow the movie. Fans of Sonic will love it but even if you’ve somehow never heard of him, you’ll love the style of the film.

The story is simple and revolves around its three main characters. Sonic (Ben Schwartz) ends up on Earth and is discovered by a Police Officer (Tom – James Marsden), who then helps him survive against the evil Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) who just wants to experiment on him.

Th casting is perfect for those three actors though. Schwartz creates a fun and likeable Sonic the Hedgehog. Marsden, who is generally good with his performances, is just as likebale and both have some actual laugh-out-loud moments. The back and forth chemistry between the two is really good and as a good chunk of the movie is a road trip with the two new friends, it’s key that it becomes easy and enjoyable viewing.

Jim Carrey is the star of the show though. It feels like we don’t see a lot of ridiculous comedic Jim Carrey any more (Dumb and Dumber To was six years ago!) and although he is fantastic in more serious roles, I think it’s fair to say that the majority of people prefer his comedy. And why wouldn’t you? When he gets it right, and he’s had plenty of hits, he’s near faultless. As Dr. Robotnik this is his best comedy performances in years and maybe one of his best ever. He throws all of those facial expressions and body movements and look like he’s really enjoying himself.

As mentioned above, they did eventually get the perfect ‘look’ for Sonic. Everything feels just right from the get go. But there are a couple of moments when it gets even better too. When he becomes himself and rolls into a ball for the first time, or when he gets those trainers or when you hear the sound of those rings. These are moments that gamers will absolutely love.

There’s a couple of great scenes that show off Sonic’s speed too. In a similar style to that of Quicksilver in the X-Men movies, we see Sonic speed through a bar fight and go one to one with Robotnik that make the action moments big highlights of the movie.

There’s very very little to complain about with Sonic the Hedgehog, and the teased sequel is something I’d definitely be on-board for. I had a smile on my face from start to finish and this is no doubt one of the best video game adaptations of all time.