Sonic the Hedgehog is a 2020 action-adventure comedy film based on the Sonic video game series.It is directed by Jeff Fowler, the film stars James Marsden and Jim Carrey. It also stars Ben Schwartz as Sonic. The film was acquired by Sony Pictures in 2013. It was later acquired by Paramount Pictures in 2017. The cast signed on in August 2018.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a 2024 action-adventure comedy film based on the Sonic video game series. This film is directed by Jeff Fowler and written by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington. The film follows Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. They face Shadow the Hedgehog, who allies with the mad scientists Ivo and Gerald Robotnik to pursue revenge against humanity.
The plot draws elements from the video games Sonic Adventure 2 (2001) and Shadow the Hedgehog (2005). Keanu Reeves was cast as Shadow. This was due to the parallels between his performance in the John Wick films and Fowler's vision for the character.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 premiered in London on December 10, 2024. It was released by Paramount Pictures in the United States on December 20. It grossed almost $500 million worldwide. This made it the highest-grossing film in the franchise, the second highest-grossing video game film at the time of release, and the tenth-highest-grossing film of 2024. The film spawned a franchise, consisting of two sequels, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022) and Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024), and a Paramount+ miniseries, Knuckles (2024).
"Get ready to dive into the exciting world of Sonic the Hedgehog 3! In this article, we’ll reveal the star-studded cast of Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Also we'll take a quick look at the film’s thrilling plot, sharp writing, and behind-the-scenes production."Sonic The Hedgehog 3 - Plot
A meteorite carrying the extraterrestrial hedgehog Shadow crashes in Oklahoma in 1974. It is seized by the U.S. military. Professor Gerald Robotnik experiments on Shadow's power at a Guardian Units of Nations (G.U.N.) research facility. There, Shadow develops a close friendship with Maria, Gerald's granddaughter. One night, Maria is accidentally killed in an explosion. Walters shuts down the facility and imprisons Gerald.
In 2024, an unknown individual hacks into a G.U.N. prison facility and releases a vengeful Shadow. Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and their adoptive parents, Tom and Maddie Wachowski, join Team Sonic to apprehend Shadow in Tokyo.
Team Sonic meets with Commander Walters, who informs them about Shadow's past. Dr. Ivo Robotnik's drones attack Walters. The team decides to search for Shadow without G.U.N.'s help. They form an uneasy alliance with Ivo's assistant, Agent Stone, and track the stolen drones to the abandoned G.U.N. facility.
Ivo encounters Gerald, his estranged grandfather and the mastermind behind Shadow's escape and the stolen drones. Gerald plans to use the keycard to destroy G.U.N.'s headquarters in London as revenge for Maria's death. Shadow takes the keycard from Tails and activates a miniature black hole to destroy the base. Team Sonic escapes using a ring portal. They then recruit Tom and Maddie to steal the second keycard.
Aboard the Eclipse Cannon, Gerald intends to destroy Earth to avenge Maria's death. Tails and Knuckles save Robotnik and knock him into the energy beam powering the cannon. Sonic and Shadow block the cannon's beam. Ivo acknowledges Stone as his only friend before he and Shadow sacrifice themselves to move the cannon away from Earth before it explodes.
Production
In March 2020, James Marsden confirmed his commitment to multiple sequels to Sonic the Hedgehog. In February 2022, Sega Sammy Group and Paramount Pictures announced the development of a third film, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, following Sonic the Hedgehog 2.
The film was produced by Original Film, Marza Animation Planet, and Blur Studio. It was directed by Jeff Fowler. Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Toru Nakahara, and Hitoshi Okuno returned as producers. Executive producers included Haruki Satomi, Shuji Utsumi, Yukio Sugino, Fowler, Tommy Gormley, and Tim Miller.
The screenplay was written by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington. Paul Greenberg and Oren Uziel received off-screen literary material credit. A spin-off television series, Knuckles, was developed simultaneously with the film.
In April 2022, Jim Carrey announced his retirement from acting. However, the producers remained hopeful that they could develop scripts for him to continue.
To cut costs, an in-house animation team at Paramount worked on both Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and the Knuckles series. The animation was produced by six studios. Fowler's team adopted a "speedboat vendor" strategy, focusing on visual continuity and communication.
Owning the Sonic assets allowed the in-house team to work exclusively on the films. This helped keep costs down and allowed for faster production.
Writting
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is a film adaptation that draws inspiration from the video games Sonic Adventure 2 (2001) and Shadow the Hedgehog (2005). The main challenge was to balance the darkness with the family-friendly nature of the film. It also involved adapting the story elements to fit the timeframe and narrative of the film series.
The film's dual roles of Gerald and Ivo were written by Joel Fowler and David Carrey. They initially focused on the parallels between the two characters but later decided to create the right conflict for the film. The story embraced Gerald's "toxicity" affecting Ivo, who regressed into a little kid. This "hurt" revealed in the film gave the story more emotion.
Fowler and Casey considered writing the line "guns, lots of guns" for Shadow. This would have been an homage to Keanu Reeves' character Neo from The Matrix and John Wick. Ultimately, they decided against it. Instead, they referenced the Reeves film Speed (1994) and mimicked the choreography of Sonic and Shadow's final duel after Neo and Agent Smith’s fight at the end of The Matrix.
The film also includes a reference to the TikTok meme "Shadow loves Latinas" to Honor fans’ expectations. It reflects the franchise’s history of online shitposting. Cristo Fernandez, who plays Juan/Pablo, was initially unaware of the meme and its popularity. He later realized it was tied to the appeal of telenovelas, which the film uses to explore the character, Gabriella.
Sonic The Hedgehog 3 - Cast
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is the third instalment in the popular video game franchise. It follows the story of Sonic Adventure 2, which introduced Sonic's vengeful counterpart, Shadow the Hedgehog, as a dark mirror to Sonic. The film follows Sonic and his friends as they face off against a dangerous new threat in the form of Shadow. They must even turn to old foes like Doctor Robotnik for assistance.
In February 2024, James Carrey was confirmed to be reprising his role. He stated that he came back to the universe because he got to play a genius. Keanu Reeves was also confirmed to join the cast as the voice of Shadow. His casting was inspired by a corollary between his performance in the John Wick series and the "vibe we're trying to channel" for the character.
Other cast members include James Marsden, Ben Schwartz, Tika Sumpter, Colleen O'Shaughnessey, Idris Elba, Lee Majdoub, and Tom Butler. Krysten Ritter, Alyla Browne, James Wolk, Sofia Pernas, Cristo Fernández, and Jorma Taccone were also cast in undisclosed roles.
Browne’s role was later revealed as Maria. Fernández played the roles of Pablo and Juan in the in-universe telenovela La Ultima Pasion.
"So now, let’s take a detailed look at the cast of Sonic the Hedgehog 3."
Ben Schwartz As Sonic
Ben Schwartz, born in New York City, is an actor known for his role as Sonic in the video game franchise. He gained fame as Jean-Ralphio Saperstein in the sitcom Parks and Recreation and has appeared in various projects, including Middleditch and Schwartz, Apple TV+'s The Afterparty, and films like Renfield.
Schwartz has also acted as Dewey in Ducktales and Leonardo in Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He reprises his role as Sonic in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, a super-fast orphaned alien who has grown from an immature loner to a heroic figure.
Notable Roles of Ben Schwartz
Ben Schwartz is a multi-talented actor, comedian, and voice artist known for his quick wit, energetic performances, and unique comedic style. From live-action sitcoms to animated classics, here are some of his most memorable roles:
Jean-Ralphio Saperstein – Parks and Recreation (2010–2015)
Schwartz played the hilariously obnoxious and lovable Jean-Ralphio, a recurring character on the hit NBC sitcom. His outrageous antics and one-liners made him a fan favorite and a standout in the ensemble cast.
Dewey Duck – DuckTales (2017–2021)
In the reboot of the classic animated series, Schwartz voiced Dewey, one of Scrooge McDuck’s adventurous nephews. His energetic and heartfelt performance helped breathe new life into the beloved franchise
Sonic the Hedgehog – Sonic the Hedgehog Franchise (2020–Present)
Schwartz provides the voice of Sonic in the successful live-action film series. His lively, charismatic delivery captures Sonic’s speed, confidence, and heart, making him the definitive voice for a new generation of fans.
James Marsden As Tom Wachowski
James Marsden, known for his roles in the X-Men franchise and modern romance movies, plays Sheriff Tom Wachowski in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Born in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Marsden has also appeared in Amazon Freevee's Jury Duty.
Tom Wachowski, the live-action protagonist of the Sonic the Hedgehog movies, is the sheriff of Sonic's hometown Green Hills. He encounters an alien and forms a close friendship with him. The character was created for the movies and serves as a surrogate father figure, serving as a stable presence in Sonic's life.
Notable Roles of James Marsden
James Marsden is a versatile actor known for his charm, comedic timing, and dramatic range. He has starred in major blockbusters, romantic comedies, and even clever mockumentaries. Here are some of his most notable roles:
Scott Summers / Cyclops – X-Men Series (2000–2014)
Marsden played Cyclops, the disciplined and loyal leader of the X-Men, in the early 2000s superhero franchise. His role helped bring the Marvel comics to the big screen during the rise of modern superhero films.
Prince Edward – Enchanted (2007)
In this Disney live-action/animated hybrid, Marsden played the hilariously over-the-top Prince Edward. His comedic and earnest performance was a standout, blending fairy tale charm with modern humour.
James Marsden (Himself) – Jury Duty (2023)
In a satirical twist, Marsden portrayed a fictionalized version of himself in this mockumentary-style comedy series. His self-deprecating humour and improvisational skills earned him critical praise and a new wave of appreciation from audiences.
Jim Carrey As Doctor Robotnik
Jim Carrey, a prolific comedy star in Hollywood, gained fame through his roles in films like The Mask, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, and Dumb and Dumber. He also showcased his dramatic range in The Truman Show and Kidding, earning him a Golden Globe nomination.
Carrey returns as Doctor Ivo Rotonik in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, the central villain from previous films. Robotnik, a brilliant inventor, attempts to steal Sonic's powers but is thwarted by Shadow. The danger posed by Shadow forces Sonic to turn to Robotnik for help in Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
Notable Roles of Jim Carrey
Jim Carrey is known for his dynamic range, combining unmatched physical comedy with deep emotional performances. Here are a few of his most iconic and critically acclaimed roles:
Ace Ventura – Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)
Carrey skyrocketed to fame as the eccentric animal detective with wild expressions and over-the-top antics. This role became a cultural phenomenon and established him as a leading comedic actor of the 1990s.
Truman Burbank – The Truman Show (1998)
In a surprising dramatic turn, Carrey played Truman, a man who slowly realizes his entire life is a reality TV show. The role earned him critical acclaim and showcased his ability to deliver nuanced, heartfelt performances beyond slapstick comedy.
Jeff Piccirillo / Jeff Pickles – Kidding (2018–2020)
In this dark comedy-drama TV series, Carrey portrayed a beloved children’s TV host dealing with personal tragedy and emotional unravelling. The role was a return to form, blending his comedic roots with a deeply emotional, layered performance.
Colleen O'Shaughnessey As Tails
Colleen O'Shaughnessy, a renowned voice actress, plays the character of Tails in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she has appeared in over 250 roles across film, television, anime, and video games. Tails, a super-powered fox, has been Sonic's best friend and closest ally throughout the franchise.
He uses his twin tails to fly around the world, which is useful alongside his partner's super-speed. The live-action version of Tails debuted in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, where they solidified their friendship.
Notable Roles of Colleen O'Shaughnessey
Colleen O'Shaughnessey is a seasoned voice actress with a versatile portfolio across anime, animation, and video games. She has brought life to a wide range of beloved characters. Here are some of her most notable roles:
Sora Takenouchi – Digimon Adventure (1999–2001, various sequels)
Colleen voiced Sora, one of the original Digi Destined, in the English dub of this iconic anime series. Her portrayal of the kind and dependable Sora became a staple for fans of the early 2000s anime boom.
Karen McCormick – South Park
In the long-running animated comedy South Park, O'Shaughnessey voiced Karen McCormick, the sweet younger sister of Kenny. Though a smaller role, her gentle performance added emotional depth to Kenny’s character.
Janet Van Dyne / The Wasp – The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes (2010–2012)
In this acclaimed animated Marvel series, Colleen voiced Janet Van Dyne, also known as The Wasp. She portrayed the witty and courageous founding Avenger with charm and strength, helping bring the animated version of the Marvel universe to life.
Idris Elba As Knuckles
British actor Idris Elba plays the iconic character Knuckles, a super-powered echidna from the Sonic video games. Elba gained fame after playing Stringer Bell on HBO's The Wire. He has also appeared in various films, including The Suicide Squad and Thor. Knuckles was one of Elba's first voice-acting roles.
Knuckles is a key character in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, working alongside Dr. Robotnik. He switches sides when he learns he's being used for his powers. Elba also played the main character in the Knuckles series on Paramount+ streaming.Notable Roles of Idris Elba
Idris Elba is a critically acclaimed actor known for his commanding screen presence, versatility, and powerful performances across television, film, and even voice acting. Here are some of his most iconic roles:
Stringer Bell – The Wire (2002–2004)
Elba’s portrayal of Stringer Bell, the intelligent and ruthless drug kingpin, earned him widespread acclaim. His performance in HBO’s The Wire helped redefine crime dramas and solidified his status as a serious dramatic actor.
DCI John Luther – Luther (2010–2019)
In this British psychological crime thriller, Elba stars as the brilliant but tormented detective John Luther. His intense, emotionally charged performance won him a Golden Globe and made Luther one of the most beloved British crime series.
Heimdall – Thor and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (2011–2018)
Elba played Heimdall, the stoic and all-seeing guardian of the Bifrost, in the Thor films and other MCU appearances. Though a supporting character, his performance brought gravitas and depth to the Asgardian universe.
Keanu Reeves As Shadow the Hedgehog
Keanu Reeves, born in Beirut, Lebanon, is a renowned movie star known for his roles in films like Speed, The Devil's Advocate, and Toy Story 4. His most iconic roles are Neo and John Wick in The Matrix and John Wick. Reeves is also a musician and co-wrote the comic BRZRKR.
In Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Shadow is a powerful and mysterious character who counters Sonic's speed and Knuckles' strength. Despite appearing as a villain, his tragic backstory and secret motivations make him a potentially complex character. Reeves' career has been a testament to his versatility and talent.
Notable Roles of Keanu Reeves
Keanu Reeves has had a legendary career, portraying some of the most iconic characters in film history. Below are a few of his most memorable and influential roles:
Theodore "Ted" Logan – Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989)
Reeves gained early fame playing the fun-loving and airheaded Ted in this time-travel comedy. The film became a cult classic and launched a successful trilogy that showcased his comedic timing and charm.
Neo (Thomas Anderson) – The Matrix Series (1999–2021)
One of Reeves' most defining roles, Neo is a computer hacker who discovers the truth about reality and becomes humanity’s last hope against intelligent machines. His performance helped shape modern sci-fi cinema, and the franchise remains a cornerstone of pop culture.
John Wick – John Wick Series (2014–2023)
In this action-packed franchise, Reeves plays a retired hitman who is drawn back into the criminal underworld. The role revitalized his career, showcasing his intense physical performance and emotional depth. The series is praised for its choreography and unique world-building.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the cast of Sonic the Hedgehog 3:
1. Who voices Sonic in Sonic the Hedgehog 3?
Ben Schwartz returns as the voice of Sonic, continuing his energetic and humorous portrayal of the iconic blue hedgehog.
2. Is Jim Carrey returning as Dr. Robotnik?
Jim Carrey had announced his retirement from acting in 2022, but the filmmakers remained hopeful about his return. His involvement in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has not been fully confirmed and may depend on future script developments.
3. Who plays Shadow the Hedgehog?
Keanu Reeves voices Shadow the Hedgehog in this instalment. He was chosen due to the parallels between Shadow’s character and Reeves’ roles in John Wick and The Matrix
4. Are Tails and Knuckles returning in this film?
Yes. Colleen O'Shaughnessey voices Tails, and Idris Elba returns as the voice of Knuckles. Both characters are central to the plot of the third film.
5. Are there any new characters introduced?
Yes, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 introduces Shadow the Hedgehog and expands on characters like Gerald Robotnik and Agent Stone. The film also includes Gabriella, a new character tied to the telenovela-inspired subplot.
6. Who plays the human characters in the film?
James Marsden and Tika Sumpter return as Tom and Maddie Wachowski, Sonic’s adoptive parents. Cristo Fernandez joins the cast as Juan/Pablo.
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