Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2022). REVIEW – Exciting, Emotional, Exhausting
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is more vital than its predecessor. It is faster, more tightly paced, has better action scenes, and its characters are written much better. Sonic the Hedgehog felt more like a Sonic movie that a large Hollywood studio was only interested in making a profit. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 feels more like an adaptation that a team of Sonic fans passionate about the franchise would make.
This film has so many great things that even people who did not like it the first time around will enjoy it again. Both the new and old characters are much more likable. Tails and Knuckles have been welcomed additions to this film franchise, while Sonic has more depth and Eggman is an entertaining villain. Eggman feels more like himself in the sequel than he did before. His character isn’t just an assortment of quirks or oddball behavior. He is more consistent and thus easier to invest in.
Both the live-action and voice casts deliver outstanding performances. Colleen O’Shaughnessey and Ben Schwartz do a great job as Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. They bring these characters to life in a way that will appeal to long-time viewers, new fans, and everyone in between.
Tika Sumpter plays Maddie, but James Marsden’s Tom doesn’t have much to do. Tika Sumpter is the star, and she kills every scene. Jim Carrey is the show star, chewing every stage most naturally. Now that Eggman is a better-written and more consistent character, Carrey has more material to work with. He owns this role. He could have played the part better than anyone else.