Today’s quick review: Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic (Ben Schwartz), a blue hedgehog capable of incredible speed, has lived the last ten years of his life on Earth, trying to make a home for himself while keeping his existence a secret from humanity. But when his remarkable powers come to the attention of Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey), a brilliant but ruthless government scientist, Sonic must turn to Tom Wachowski (James Marsden), a small-town cop, for help.
Sonic the Hedgehog is a family adventure comedy based on the series of video games by Sega. Sonic the Hedgehog reimagines its titular character as an alien forced to live in hiding on Earth to keep his power away from those who would abuse it. The movie sticks to the reliable family adventure template of an otherworldly visitor on the run from the government. Within this framework, it manages to be an imaginative comedy with a fun sense of humor.
Sonic the Hedgehog sticks to the basics of its genre, but it executes them well. Sonic and Tom make for a solid comedy duo, with Sonic as a hyperactive, inquisitive speedster and Tom as his reluctant chaperone. Jim Carrey makes for a fine Dr. Robotnik. He trends a little too goofy at times but generally does a good job capturing the pettiness of the character. The humor is consistent enough to keep the movie entertaining from start to finish.
However, Sonic the Hedgehog misses a few opportunities to take its story farther. It’s cautious about adapting concepts from the video games, picking only the ideas it can fit into its story template. That leaves its world and its story underdeveloped compared to the creativity shown in its source material. Even taken on its own terms, the movie plays it a little too safe, raising questions about Sonic’s origins that it never dares to answer.
Sonic the Hedgehog is a light, enjoyable adventure that will appeal to younger audiences and those simply in the mood for something fun. The movie is a little too formulaic to let its source material shine, but an effective comedy duo and a fairly well-constructed story make it worth a watch for those curious. Those hoping for a groundbreaking story, a faithful adaptation of the games, or timeless humor will want to steer clear.
For a video game adaptation that takes bigger risks with its world-building and humor, try Detective Pikachu. For a science fiction adventure that pairs a human with a visitor from another planet, try E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Transformers, or The Iron Giant. For a much less successful family comedy that pairs a middle-aged man with a cartoonish creature, check out Woody Woodpecker. For a superhero movie with similar charm, try Shazam!.
6.9 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.5 to 7.0 for fun characters, a decent story, and a credible adaptation of difficult source material.