The first Sonic the Hedgehog movie (directed by Jeff Fowler) was a pleasant surprise. After a few speed bumps, delays, and… design choices, the 2020 film went on to gross $319.7 million worldwide and was met with mixed, but overall positive reviews. Critics and fans alike praised Jim Carrey’s Dr. Robotnik, who’s performance harkens back to some of his most memorable films. Most importantly, it proved that not all video game films had to miss the mark. Paramount Pictures had an unexpected hit on their hands – do they have another with 2022’s Sonic the Hedgehog 2?

Sonic’s sidekick Tails makes his debut in Sonic 2

Sonic 2 decides to build on what made the first one so great – leaning into the things that fans love about Sonic. This time, he’s joined by Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba) for a worldwide adventure as they race to find the Master Emerald, a powerful gem that holds unlimited power. Hardcore fans don’t have to worry – the Sonic lore is brought to the forefront in this story, with fun nods and Easter eggs around every corner. Luckily, dull exposition isn’t an issue. Much like the titular character, the story speeds along, with brief explanations that don’t give too much or too little to the audience.

Carrey returns as the sinister Dr. Robotnik, this time with his signature mustache. The character features a more cartoonish and sinister vibe this time around but is served well by the more outlandish plot and locations. He never feels out of place when sharing the screen with our CGI heroes.

Idris Elba delights as the hard-headed Knuckles, a no-nonsense Echidna warrior who teams up with Robotnik to find the Master Emerald. Colleen O’Shaughnessey makes her big screen debut as Tails, and is a true highlight. Having voiced the character in the games and cartoons since 2014, she delivers a genuinely heartwarming performance alongside Ben Schwartz. Speaking of Schwartz, his Sonic is once again the heart of the film and nails the speedy, impatient personality the blue blur is known for, while also serving up the gravitas needed for a character that is still learning what it means to be a hero.

What Sonic 2 gains in scope it does lose a bit in heart. The smaller story in the first film led to more genuine and earned growth from everyone involved. In Sonic 2, the action is turned up to 11, but speeds through some moments that needed more time to breathe. Aside from Carrey’s Robotnik, the other human characters (James Marsden’s Tom, Tika Sumpter’s Maddie, and Natasha Rothwell’s Rachel) from the first film are pushed to the side in a wedding subplot that, while having a few fun sequences, eventually overstays its welcome. Sonic 2 could have benefited from a shorter run time, but there’s rarely a dull moment.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2’s action is a visual treat

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is proof that not being ashamed of your source material ultimately pays off, and much like its video game counterpart, is a rare video game sequel that exceeds the first. Paramount clearly has faith in this franchise, having already announced Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (and a Knuckles spinoff series for Paramount+), and Sonic 2 has given good reason for said faith. Families everywhere will have a good time with Sonic’s latest big screen adventure, and the future of the series looks bright.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Review: High Speed Adventure