The "Ugly Sonic" debacle of 2019 feels like a distant memory. While the first Sonic 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 the 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 growth continues: Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is already slated for a 2027 release.
Planning a viewing? Here's the lowdown on how to watch Sonic 3:
How to Watch Sonic the Hedgehog 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 digitally for rent or purchase on platforms such as Prime Video. Paramount+ will be the exclusive streaming home, unlike Netflix or Disney+. While a precise date isn't confirmed, extrapolating from the theatrical runs of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and Paramount's 2024 releases (Smile 2 and A Quiet Place: Day One), a Paramount+ release is anticipated by mid-February 2025.
Physical Release: A 4K steelbook edition is available for pre-order on Amazon, though the release date remains unannounced. Amazon's pre-order price guarantee offers some reassurance.
What is Sonic the Hedgehog 3 About?
The film explores the origins of Shadow the Hedgehog, previously seen in Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic x Shadow Generations. The official synopsis: Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails team up to confront Shadow, a powerful new adversary. Overmatched, they forge an unlikely alliance to defeat Shadow and save the planet.
How to Watch Sonic 1 and Sonic 2:
The first two Sonic films are available on Blu-ray and various streaming services. Sonic 1 streams on Hulu, Paramount+, Peacock, and Prime Video. Sonic 2 is available on Hulu, Paramount+, and Prime Video. Paramount+ also hosts other Sonic content, including the 90s cartoon and this year's Knuckles special.
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:
Rating and Runtime:
Rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor, thematic elements, and mild language. Runtime: 1 hour and 50 minutes.