Doing well to give us more of what we want whilst failing to control a flabby midsection, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 still manages to continue the franchise in a positive fashion whilst teasing an even bigger future.
The introduction of Tails and Knuckles is both obvious and glorious. Both are treated with the same respect as the Blue Devil. Elba doesn’t overpower his character, instead imbuing the Echidna with both a warrior’s honour and naivety. Tails is sweetly spot on, with all his gadgets and friendliness. He should sound familiar too, as he’s voiced by Colleen O’Shaughnessey, who has been in the role across games and shows since 2013.
Speaking of being true to the source, Jim Carrey’s Robotnik returns! A highlight of the first film, he’s sporting a more accurate look this time around. He references are a little too irreverent and dated at times, but he’s once again a lot of fun. I’m still loving that he gets called both Robotnik and Eggman.
The other humans are…present? I didn’t need a full on story thread containing them doing things without Sonic and co. You could easily cut fifteen minutes out and have a much better flow to the film. Marsden is again good value but the rest I could do without. Fortunately every time our animated characters are onscreen everything zips along something lovely.
I grew up with a MegaDrive. I never figured I’d see Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Robotnik battling over the Master Emerald in the cinema. And that’s not even the half of it once you factor in the the hints and easter eggs. Sonic 2 is good fun, and realistically about as good anyone can expect save ditching the humans altogether. Just like the first time, I’m looking forward to more.
Be the first to comment