The "Ugly Sonic" debacle of 2019 feels like a distant memory. While the first Sonic the Hedgehog film wasn't a perfect video game adaptation, it launched a franchise featuring Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik, and, in its latest installment, Keanu Reeves as Shadow.
IGN's review of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 praised its improved humor, visuals, and Carrey's performance, calling it a step up from its predecessors. And the series isn't stopping at a trilogy; Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is already slated for 2027.
Planning to see the new Sonic movie? Here's the lowdown on its release:
How to Watch Sonic 3: Theatrical, Digital, and Physical Release
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is currently playing in theaters. Check local listings at Fandango, AMC Theaters, Cinemark Theaters, and Regal Theaters.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is available digitally for rent or purchase on platforms such as Prime Video. Paramount+ will be the exclusive streaming home, unlike Netflix or Disney+. Based on the release timelines of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and other Paramount releases, a Paramount+ streaming debut is anticipated around mid-February 2025.
A 4K steelbook edition is available for pre-order on Amazon, though the official release date remains unannounced. Amazon's pre-order price guarantee offers peace of mind.
What's Sonic the Hedgehog 3 About?
The film explores the origins of Shadow the Hedgehog, a character prominent in Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic x Shadow Generations. The official synopsis: Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails team up to confront Shadow, a formidable new foe with unprecedented powers. Facing an overwhelming challenge, they forge an unexpected alliance to defeat Shadow and save the planet.
How to Watch Sonic 1 and 2
The first two Sonic films are available on Blu-ray and various streaming services. Sonic the Hedgehog 1 streams on Hulu, Paramount+, Peacock, and Prime Video. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is available on Hulu, Paramount+, and Prime Video. Paramount+ also hosts other Sonic content, including the 90s cartoon and the Knuckles spin-off.
Post-Credits Scene?
Yes! Sonic 3 features both mid- and post-credits scenes, details of which leaked prior to the film's release.
Cast and Crew
Directed by Jeff Fowler and written by Patrick Casey, Josh Miller, and John Wittington, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 stars:
- Ben Schwartz as Sonic the Hedgehog
- Colleen O'Shaughnessey as Tails
- Idris Elba as Knuckles
- Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog
- Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik (and Gerald Robotnik)
- James Marsden as Tom Wachowski
- Tika Sumpter as Maddie Wachowski
- Krysten Ritter as Director Rockwell
- Natasha Rothwell as Rachel
- Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone
- Alyla Browne as Maria
- Shemar Moore as Randall Handel
- Adam Pally as Wade Whipple
Rating and Runtime
Rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor, thematic elements, and mild language. Runtime: 1 hour and 50 minutes.