Paramount Pictures Studios sends eager audiences into a whirlwind with the release of Sonic the Hedgehog 2, early confirmation of a third film, and the development of a spin-off series.

Moving at supersonic speed, the Sonic movie sequel ”Sonic the Hedgehog 2” debuted in U.S. theaters on April 8. The beloved video game character has returned to screens nationwide in a new live-action adaptation which delves further into the Sonic Universe. The first film left off with Sonic the Hedgehog, voiced by Ben Schwartz, comfortably living in the fictional Green Hills with his newfound family— Tom Wachowski, played by James Marsden, and Maddie Wachowski, played by Tika Sumpter.

The sequel features the return of archnemesis Dr. Robotnik, played by Jim Carrey and the introduction of his new companion Knuckles the Echidna, voiced by Idris Elba. Knuckles is not the only new addition to the live action film from the Sonic Universe. It also features fan favorite Miles “Tails” Prower, an anthropomorphic fox who is Sonic’s kindhearted friend. Tails is played by voice actress Colleen O’Shaughnessey, who has voiced the character in Sonic video games since 2014.

Subplots within the new film, such as a humorous wedding scene, stray from the movie’s connection to the video games. However, the addition of these entertaining side stories make the viewing experience enjoyable even for those unfamiliar with the franchise. Despite some scenes that felt as if they dragged on, the film’s gags and adventure comedy gave the story universal appeal. With these elements, it’s easy to see why fans gave “Sonic the Hedgehog 2” a nearly perfect score of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes as of April 19.

Sonic sets the pace for a continuation of his tale at the end of this film. Paramount Pictures has kept in stride and they’ve already announced that ”Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is in the works at ViacomCBS Investors Connect day on February 15. While very little information has been confirmed about that third film, moviegoers should note to watch ”Sonic the Hedgehog 2” in entirety, as a post-credit scene introduces a fan favorite character who is sure to make an appearance in the future movie.

At ViacomCBS Investors Connect day, Paramount also teased fans with more content from the Sonic Universe by confirming an upcoming spin-off series featuring Knuckles. The series is set to launch in 2023 and will be exclusive to Paramount’s streaming service, Paramount+. It’s clear that Sonic and his pals have no intention of slowing down, as the Sonic Cinematic Universe we’ve been dreaming of seems to finally be coming to fruition.

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