The "Ugly Sonic" debacle of 2019 feels like a distant memory. While the first Sonic the Hedgehog 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 its 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 series' expansion beyond a trilogy is confirmed, with Sonic the Hedgehog 4 slated for 2027.

Planning to see Sonic 3? Here's the lowdown on its release:

How to Watch Sonic 3: Theatrical, Digital, and Physical Release

Theatrical Release: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is currently playing in theaters. Check local listings on 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+. Based on previous Paramount releases, a Paramount+ streaming debut is anticipated around mid-February 2025.

Physical Release: A 4K steelbook edition is available for pre-order on Amazon, though the official release date remains unannounced. Amazon's pre-order price guarantee offers reassurance.

What's Sonic the Hedgehog 3 About?

This installment 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 must team up to confront Shadow, a formidable new foe with unprecedented powers, forging an unlikely alliance to save the planet.

How to Watch Sonic 1 and Sonic 2

The first two films are available on Blu-ray and various streaming services. Sonic 1 streams on Hulu, Paramount+, Peacock, and Prime Video. Sonic 2 is on Hulu, Paramount+, and Prime Video. Paramount+ also hosts other Sonic content, including the 90s cartoon and the Knuckles short.

Post-Credits Scene?

Yes! Sonic 3 features both mid- and post-credits scenes, details of which leaked prior to release.

Cast and Crew

Directed by Jeff Fowler, written by Patrick Casey, Josh Miller, and John Wittington, and starring:

• Ben Schwartz as Sonic
• Colleen O'Shaughnessey as Tails
• Idris Elba as Knuckles
• Keanu Reeves as Shadow
• Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik (and Gerald Robotnik)
• James Marsden as Tom Wachowski
• Tika Sumpter as Maddie Wachowski
• Krysten Ritter as Director Rockwell
• Natasha Rothwell as Rachel
• Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone
• Alyla Browne as Maria
• Shemar Moore as Randall Handel
• Adam Pally as Wade Whipple

Rating and Runtime:

Rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor, thematic elements, and mild language. Runtime: 1 hour and 50 minutes.