Varun Patel
The cute, furry, blue cat-sized monster who can sprint faster than a bullet is here to charm audiences once more, this time in a form more grandiose than it has previously been seen in. Sonic is a Japanese video game character that has enjoyed multiple appearances in several video games across numerous gaming platforms. Its popularity has spurred several trans-media spin-offs like animations, comics and manga.
The character was developed by Sega Games as they needed a recognizable mascot to compete with Nintendo’s Mario brothers. It is shown as an anthropomorphic hedgehog who becomes the world’s fastest hedgehog after using the powers of the fictional seven emeralds. Most of the Sonic games features the character running at varying speeds over courses filled with obstacles like springs, bottomless pits, slopes and monsters, similar to Super Mario Bros.
Sony Pictures bought the rights to depict Sonic in a feature-length movie in 2013, set to produce and distribute it. They sought a partnership with the Japanese studio, Marza Animation Planet to produce a joint Japanese-American live action/computer animated movie. However, in 2017, Paramount Pictures had taken over the project from Sony who had put it on hold.
Live action/computer animated movies have been quite the rage in recent times. Disney’s ‘The Jungle Book’ provided a decent glimpse into the potential of the medium. But perhaps, ‘Pokemon Detective Pikachu’ is the closest film, in terms of similar animation and visualization style that can be expected from the upcoming ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ movie.
Sonic the Hedgehog Plot: What is it About?
In the upcoming movie, Sonic is shown to be an anthropomorphic hedgehog belonging to another world. He comes to planet Earth to escape villains who wish to harness his power of speed. Well-intentioned, Sonic finds it hard to control his power of speed and not cause destruction without meaning to do so.
However, while hiding in Green Hills, he causes a power outage by mistake, thereby alerting the police about his mysterious presence. In response, they hire a roboticist by the name of Dr. Robotnik to help capture the blue hedgehog. However, Dr. Robotnik wishes to use Sonic’s powers for world domination. Luckily, Sonic is found by Tom Wachowski- the Green Hills sheriff who is an ex-SFPD officer. He is befriended by Wachowski who helps him escape with the aid of his wife and a friend.
Sonic the Hedgehog Cast: Who is in it?
The character of Sonic is voiced by the actor and comedian, Ben Schwartz. The American performer is best known for playing Jean-Ralphio Saperstein on the sitcom, ‘Parks and Recreation’ and later, ‘House of Lies.’ He has lent his voice to several animated movies in the past like ‘Turbo’ in 2013, ‘The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part’ and the upcoming ‘Rumble.’ His other feature film credits include ‘The Other Guys,’ ‘Peep World’ and ‘This is Where I Leave You.’
The prolific Canadian-American actor, Jim Carrey will play the role of main antagonist, Dr. Robotnik. Carrey is known for his comedy roles and vibrant slapstick performances. He is known for being the lead in several commercially successful movies like ‘A Christmas Carol’ ‘The Mask’ and ‘Bruce Almighty.’ The character of Dr. Robotnik is that of an insane and hilariously villainous mad scientist with inklings for world domination. One could say that the casting of Dr. Robotnik is rather perfect given Carrey’s talent and renown as a comedian. Moreover, his brand of humor will certainly fit the movie.
Moreover, James Marsden essays the character of Tom Wachowski, a good-hearted sheriff who assists Sonic against the military in ‘Sonic the Hedgehog.’ Marsden is known for playing Teddy, an android on the science fiction television series, ‘Westworld’ and Scott Summers in the ‘X-Men’ movies.
Other cast members include Tika Sumpter who plays Tom’s wife and Adam Pally who plays Billy Robb, Tom’s friend.
Sonic the Hedgehog Crew: Who is Behind it?
The movie will mark the directorial debut for American visual effects artist, Jeff Fowler. He is an Academy Award nominee- something he earned for his short, animated movie, ‘Gopher Broke.’
Moreover, the movie’s story is written by Patrick Casey and Josh Miller who are known for writing ‘Golan the Insatiable.’ Junkie XL has composed the movie’s music, while its cinematography has been handled by Stephen F. Windon. Editorial duties are taken care of by Stacey Schroeder.
Paramount Pictures will distribute the movie while Sega, Marza Animation Planet and Blur Studio will serve as some of the producers for the film.
Sonic the Hedgehog Release Date: When Does it Premiere?
‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ release in theaters in February 14, 2020 in the United States. It will be premiere in Japan on March 27, 2020.
Sonic the Hedgehog Trailer:
You can watch the trailer for ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ below. It portrays the kind of animation that the movie has utilized in order to bring the video game character to the screen. It provides an apt first-look into what one can expect from this mixture of live action and computer animation. Providing a decent look at the plot too, the trailer further highlights its impressive cast with Jim Carrey’s character slated to be one of its strong suits.
Read More: Upcoming Jim Carrey Movies
