With two films combining to earn over $700 million at the global box office, Sonic the Hedgehog has proven to be one of the few successful movie adaptations of video games. With a third installment and a spin-off miniseries on the way, the franchise is poised for even greater success.
In anticipation of the film’s release next year, Paramount Pictures has offered fans a glimpse of the fan-favorite anti-hero, Shadow. In a post shared on the movie’s X account, fans get a close-up shot of the character from the torso down to its shoes. This marks the second time fans have seen Shadow, following a brief post-credits appearance in Sonic the Hedgehog 2.
Given the character’s likely evolution since that appearance, the new reveal makes sense, especially considering it comes with confirmation of the film’s release date. Sonic the Hedgehog’s release date was initially announced in 2022, but due to the SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, many feared it would be pushed back. Fans can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the release date remains unchanged.
The image provides a detailed look at Shadow’s gloves and showcases its cool red, white, and black kicks. With several nicks and scratches, the studio hints at the well-worn nature of Shadow’s footwear. A clapperboard is also visible in the background, which is unsurprising given that the film is about speedsters. More surprisingly, and pleasantly so, is a new logo. The clapperboard pays homage to Sonic Adventure 2, the SEGA game that introduced Shadow the Hedgehog to the video game franchise.
Since its release, the image has amassed nearly 12 million views on the platform, demonstrating the popularity of the Sonic the Hedgehog film series and the anticipation for the upcoming installment. Despite their desire for a full-body reveal, the number of views and comments suggest that fans are thrilled with Shadow’s introduction.
While Paramount has yet to announce the actor who will voice the character, the image’s release has sparked a lively debate among fans about who would be the perfect actor to voice the character. Keanu Reeves is the most popular choice, with other fans suggesting Chris Pratt, Jonathan Bernthal, Christian Bale, and even Will Arnett.
Regardless of their differing opinions on the ideal voice actor, fans unanimously agree that Shadow’s kicks are cool.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Shadow’s voice, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will see James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Ben Schwartz, and Colleen O’Shaughnessey reprise their roles from the previous films. At this time, there is no confirmation on whether Jim Carrey, who played the villain in both movies, will also return.
While plot details remain under wraps, Shadow the Hedgehog is likely to serve as the main antagonist with a potential partnership, such as one with Carrey’s Dr. Robotnik, also a possibility.
Sonic the Hedgehog’s box office success has also revitalized interest in the video game series. Recent rumors suggest that SEGA is considering more remakes and reboots of the franchise’s classic video games.
Before Sonic the Hedgehog 3 hits theaters in late 2024, fans will have a chance to revisit the franchise earlier in the year when the Knuckles spin-off miniseries premieres on Paramount+.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will race into theaters on December 20, 2024.
