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 successful franchise starring 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 praises its improved humor, visuals, and Carrey's performance, deeming it superior to its predecessors. And the franchise's expansion is confirmed: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is slated for a 2027 release.
Planning to watch? Here's the lowdown on Sonic 3's release:
How to Watch Sonic 3: Showtimes, Streaming, and Physical Release
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is currently playing in theaters. Check local listings at Fandango, AMC Theaters, Cinemark Theaters, and Regal Theaters.
Digital Release: Sonic 3 is available for digital rental or purchase on platforms like Prime Video. Paramount+, not Netflix or Disney+, will be the exclusive streaming home. Based on previous releases, a Paramount+ streaming debut is anticipated around mid-February 2025.
Physical Release: A 4K steelbook edition is available for preorder on Amazon, though the official release date remains unannounced. Amazon's preorder price guarantee offers some security.
What is Sonic the Hedgehog 3 About?
The film explores the origins of Shadow the Hedgehog, previously featured in Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic x Shadow Generations. The official synopsis: Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails must team up to confront Shadow, a formidable new foe with unprecedented powers, forging an unlikely alliance to save the planet.
How to Watch Sonic 1 and Sonic 2
The first two films are available on Blu-ray and various streaming services. Sonic 1 streams on Hulu, Paramount+, Peacock, and Prime Video, while Sonic 2 is on Hulu, Paramount+, and Prime Video. Paramount+ also hosts other Sonic content.
Post-Credits Scene?
Yes! Sonic 3 features both mid- and post-credits scenes (details leaked prior to release).
Cast:
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.
