Director Jeff Fowler Calls “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” Cast ‘The Best Imaginable’ – In Cinemas January 15
The highly anticipated Sonic the Hedgehog 3 returns to cinemas with a stellar lineup of familiar faces and exciting new additions. Directed by Jeff Fowler, the film promises heart-pounding action, stunning visuals, and plenty of humor, with its all-star cast leading the charge.
A Blockbuster Ensemble
Director Jeff Fowler beams with pride as he reveals the cast.
“We could not be more excited,” says director Jeff Fowler. “We’ve got Ben Schwartz back voicing Sonic; Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails; Idris Elba as Knuckles; James Marsden as the Donut Lord – aka Sheriff Tom Wachowski – Tika Sumpter as Maddie Wachowski; and the incomparable Jim Carrey in not just one, but two key roles. Robotnik’s henchman Agent Stone is once again played by Lee Majdoub. Natasha Rothwell and Shemar Moore have cameos as newlyweds Rachel and Randall. Adam Pally drops in as everybody’s favorite goofy Deputy Wade. And last but not least, our new character, Shadow the Hedgehog, is played by Keanu Reeves. It’s the best cast imaginable.”
Reeves voices Shadow the Hedgehog, a fan-favorite character teased in Sonic 2. Reeves teases the character’s complexity:
“Sonic can’t compete with him at the beginning, but he’s a quick learner. Visually, it’s very exciting. There’s such a spirit of fun and surprise that’s also connected to emotional authenticity for the characters. That allows you to empathize with them.”
A Bigger, Bolder Sonic Adventure
In Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails face their toughest challenge yet: Shadow, the ultimate life form. Together, they must forge an unexpected alliance to save the planet from destruction.
Ben Schwartz describes Sonic as “a flurry of manic energy and humor,” adding:
Anyone who likes the earlier films will love this one, promises Schwartz. “We’ve exploded the boundaries,” he says. “There are fights in outer space. There are two different Robotniks. The ultimate life form will destroy the world if the team of Knuckles, Tails and Sonic can’t stop him. This is Sonic’s toughest fight yet and he gets knocked on his butt a couple of times, but he comes back hard.”
The stakes are higher than ever, with explosive battles—including one in outer space—and emotional story arcs that deepen the franchise’s lore.
Behind the Scenes Magic
Jim Carrey doubles the mischief by portraying both Dr. Robotnik and Gerald Robotnik. Fowler calls Carrey’s involvement transformative:
“It’s going to be amazing for audiences to see what Jim does with it,” says Fowler. “He had so many funny ideas for the characters. He’s been involved in every little aspect of the Robotnik world, including all of his interactions with his sidekick Agent Stone.”
Fowler also praised Krysten Ritter’s addition as Director Rockwell of G.U.N., whose skepticism of Team Sonic adds tension and intrigue.
“She’s not exactly on Sonic’s side for a good deal of the movie, which creates some interesting layers for the story,” says Fowler.
Sonic Fans: This One’s For You
Colleen O’Shaughnessey, who has voiced Tails for years, appreciates the passion of Sonic fans:
“The love that I’ve gotten playing this character has just been tremendous,” she says. “Sonic fans are some of the most passionate fans in the world. And they’re very opinionated! When they like what you do, that is a huge compliment. It’s overwhelming sometimes.”
Idris Elba echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the film’s universal appeal:
“We all know hedgehogs don’t move fast. And they’re not blue. But no matter what age you are, this is an experience you don’t want to miss. And make sure you share it — it’s definitely a movie for everyone.”
Jim Carrey also encourages audiences to watch the film in theaters:
“And see it with your family. No matter how big your TV screen is, the cinema allows you to dream bigger. The artists that created this have painted it on a canvas so large you can get lost in it. But be sure to drop some popcorn so you can find your way back.”
Get Ready for Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Catch Sonic the Hedgehog 3 in Philippine cinemas starting January 15, 2025. Be part of the action and join the global conversation with the hashtag #SonicMovie3 and tag @paramountpicsph.
Photo and Video Credit: “Paramount Pictures International”