Review: 'Sonic the Hedgehog 3' darker, emotional but is perfect for families

The majority of popular video game adaptations translated into the live-action format receive reviews ranging from decent and mixed to polarizing results. It is safe to say not every video game concept is meant for cinematic treatment.

As of late, the quality of certain adaptations has begun to improve, with the recent releases of "Super Mario Brothers" and "Sonic the Hedgehog." Paramount Studios entered the fray, announcing its intention to adapt "Sonic the Hedgehog" into a live-action treatment. Upon releasing the first trailer, "Sonic's" original design received significant polarizing backlash, forcing Paramount to delay its first release date, returning designers to the drawing board and creating a Sonic image closer to his faithful representation.

The fact Paramount listened to fan response opened a window of opportunity for the potential of a Sonic franchise. As a token of appreciation, fans collectively ventured into the theaters for the first film. Despite mixed reception, it proved to be a box-office success with a majority of fans being pleased with the special effects, "Sonic's" design, simplistic story and Jim Carrey's performance as Dr. Robotnik.

"Sonic's" sequel brought similar success for the franchise, increasing and improving the special effects, including the two fan-favorite characters of Tails and Knuckles, Carrey's fantastic performance and the providing exciting entertainment for the viewer. "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" brings forth another fan-favorite anti-hero character, Shadow, voiced by Keanu Reeves. The third film focuses on Shadow arriving to Earth seeking revenge for his traumatic and tragic past, bringing a level of chaos, destruction, and darkness unlike anything Team Sonic has experienced.

Team Sonic forges an unlikely alliance with archenemy Dr. Robotnik (Eggman) with Carrey reprising the iconic video game villain. Its story is more of understanding Shadow's motivation exploring his creation, experimentation and the one human connection he cherished while in captivity. "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" is a combined presentation of escapism and nostalgia. There were moments I was watching where a journey down memory lane began to manifest, with memories of my mother and father purchasing a Sega Genesis for Christmas along with the first "Sonic the Hedgehog" game. Every single day I played the game religiously. I remember my father stating how the game made him dizzy with the array of dazzling colors, Sonic's inhuman speed and the screen making it difficult keeping up with spinning angles.

From the film's beginning, it became apparent how its creation came with passion toward the lore of Sonic the Hedgehog. Carrey is at his most energetic portraying Dr. Robotnik and his grandfather Dr. Gerald Robotnik. If my memory is correct, this is the first time Carrey has performed simultaneously as two characters. The performance is massively energetic, electric and pure physical comedy with a mixture of introspective emotionality. Reeves' voicing the character of Shadow is too perfect for words. Aside from Shadow having one of the most tragic and darker stories, it was refreshing having a performance where the vocal torment and dialogue fits the tone of the character. He brings the perfect amount of anguish, naivety and emotional gravity to Shadow the Hedgehog.

Another element this film improved upon is experimenting with the concept of deviating from the focus of human characters. "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" brings more character development to Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Shadow included. Experiencing the growth of Sonic, Tails and Knuckles as their bond grows stronger throughout the story is a wholesome and heartwarming tale.

Returning to their roles is Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Colleen O'Shaughnessy as Tails and Idris Elba as the Echidna warrior Knuckles channeling their natural chemistry, brilliant comedic timing and vocal acting talents by bringing these characters to life once again in creative fashion. The action sequences are amazingly splendid to behold on the big screen. Sequences with Sonic and Shadow are the absolute highlights, making me yearn for more in the process. I will say the action spectacle during the climax is pure "Sonic the Hedgehog" in complete video game form. I could not contain my smile, for it returned me to being a child in the '90s playing all three "Sonic" games. It would be massively difficult to articulate how beautiful, exciting, innovative and fantastic the sequence is for the eyes.

Minor flaws prevent the film from reaching a perfect score. Moments of humor oddly placed within various parts of the story or unexpected cuts to dialogue dampen the momentum of a previous scene of intense drama, action and consequential stakes. Where the film shines brightly are the flashback sequences with Shadow and his human friend Maria, his interactions with Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and both Robotniks. Including Shadow gives the story a much-needed sense of dark emotion. I can honestly state "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" is one of the darker, serious and emotional stories.

In closing, this is still an exciting adventure that is perfect for children and families alike. Those who grew up playing "Sonic" will love it, and children will embrace it as well. Even if you are not a fan the video games or animated series, it has something for everyone. Whether it is cute callbacks/Easter egg references using music cues or popular culture pieces, "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" is the perfect feature presentation for a family gathering. My final rating for this film is a resounding two thumbs up and a 9/10 score.

There are two scenes during the credits that are a must-see, leaving it open for a highly anticipated sequel.

To watch Isaiah Ridley's movie reviews online, find him @Izzy's Cinematic Escape on YouTube.