Sonic the Hedgehog 2: A longer, more powerful, and action-packed sequel

Critic’s Rating: 3.5/5

STORY: Dr Robotnik (Jim Carrey) returns to Earth, accompanied by his new sidekick, Knuckles the Echidna (Idris Elba). They are after the extremely powerful Master Emerald, but Sonic the Hedgehog (Ben Schwartz) and his new companion will have to go to any length to keep it from falling into the hands of the wrong people. Will they succeed or fail?

REVIEW: Sonic’s life on Earth couldn’t have been more peaceful, thanks to foster parents, an adorable dog, and a welcoming neighbourhood. But, as we all know, the little blue brat gets bored quickly and decides to become a hero by saving the world from crooks. When his amateur vigilante justice attempt fails, he listens to his father Tom’s (James Marsden) advice to wait for his moment of truth. Dr Robotnik, Sonic’s old nemesis, returns to conquer the world and destroy Sonic, whom he regards as a “wretched blue rodent.”

This time, director Jeff Fowler and his writers don’t waste time recapping the events of the first instalment. They get right into the action and adventure, with Sonic attempting to prevent a break-in but instead causing more chaos in the city. It’s an exciting scene that foreshadows what’s to come in this longer and more action-packed instalment. It keeps everything from the original while adding more characters, slick visual effects, and action.

Sonic (Ben Schwartz) remains in top form and sounds exactly the right age for his character. We found Jim Carrey’s Robotnik act to be eviler and less funny this time around. This actor had so much more comedic potential, but his character is painfully adamant about being just the bad guy. Idris Elba shines as Knuckles, the red anthropomorphic with a good heart who gets mixed up with the wrong crowd. Colleen O’Shaughnessey steps in to fill the role of Sonic’s adorable fan girl Tails, who will go to any length to assist her hero.

The two’s chemistry is fantastic and entertaining to watch. James Marsden and Tika Sumpter play the wise couple, Tom and Maddie, respectively. Maddie and her sister Rachel (Natasha Rothwell) give it their all and deliver laugh-out-loud moments, albeit slapstick and juvenile.

This sequel is completely justified in the end. It’s a full-fledged entertainment package with an elaborate adventure. However, it feels a little long near the end, indicating that it could use some trimming. Nonetheless, this franchise stays true to its roots and delivers on its promises, both for gamers and non-gamers.

In-depth Analysis -

Direction: 3.5/5

Dialogues: 3.5/5

Screenplay: 3.5/5

Action: 3.5/5

Visual appeal: 3.5/5