AVS Discussions
Movie and TV Discussion => Movie reviews => Topic started by: David Vaughn on April 08, 2025, 07:43:14 PM
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(https://i.imgur.com/z4UWD2q.jpeg)
Studio: Paramount
Release Date: April 15, 2025
Rating: PG
Film: 3.5/5
Plot
Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails are back for their most epic adventure yet. The team reunites to face a new formidable foe, Shadow, a mysterious hedgehog with powers unlike anything they've ever seen. Team Sonic must secure an unexpected alliance if they hope to stop Shadow and save the planet. Keanu Reeves joins the all-star cast as Shadow the Hedgehog.
My Thoughts
As a parent, I really liked the messaging in this film showing how teamwork, resilience, and the power of family can overcome almost any obstacle. The film showcases Sonic and his crew facing insurmountable odds, only to emerge stronger by leaning on each other’s unique strengths. I really enjoyed the reminder that no one has to go it alone and this theme resonates deeply throughout the film and encourages the viewer to find strength in their own communities.
The film is far from perfect though. There are a bit too many action-packed sequences that could have used some editing and I’m not sure how patient younger viewers will be once it hits the 90-minute mark (the film runs 20 minutes longer than that). Overall, it’s worth the payoff because the film doesn’t shy away from exploring the characters’ flaws and the narrative arc is emotionally compelling while keeping everyone entertained.
Like the previous two films, the presentation is outstanding in both the audio and video departments. The UHD is loaded with detail and there are plenty of HDR moments that light up the screen, particularly in the third act. The Atmos soundtrack is extremely aggressive on the low end and provides plenty of demo-worthy moments throughout the film.
Video 9.5/10
Audio 10/10 (Dolby TrueHD)
Special Features:
- Commentary by Director Jeff Fowler and Voice of Sonic Ben Schwartz
- Sonic Family Fun
- Enter Shado
- Robotnik Family Reunion: Ivo and Gerald
- For the Love of Sonic: Directing a Trilogy
- The Fox, the Echidna, and the Hedgehog
- Live-Action Lunacy: Acting Opposite Puppets
- From the Cryo-Tank to London: The World of Sonic
- Team Sonic vs. Shado
- A Very Sonic Christmas
- Gag Reel
- Deleted Scenes
- Sonic Central (Digital Only)
- Steelbook Packaging
- 4K + Blu-ray + Digital Code
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSu6i2iFMO0&ab_ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSu6i2iFMO0&ab_)
Conclusion
I liked this third installment better than the second but not quite as much as the first. I like how the film blends high-stakes adventure with genuine heart and I’m sure the younglings and parents alike with inspire each of them to embrace their own journeys and forgive past mistakes in order to work together for a positive outcome. Recommended.
Reference Review System:
JVC DLA-RS3100 4K Ultra High-Definition Front Projector
(Calibrated with Portrait Displays CalMAN color calibration software & C6-HDR Meter from Portrait Displays)
Stewart Filmscreen - Firehawk 110” 2.35:1 Screen
Trinnov Altitude 16 Audio/Video Processor
ATI AT527NC Powering Bed Channels
ATI AT524NC Powering Atmos Speakers
Zidoo UHD8000 Media Player
Panasonic DP-UB820 Ultra HD Blu-ray Player
System Controller: URC MX-990
M&K S-150 THX Ultra (R-C-L Speakers)
M&K SS-150 x4 (Surround Speakers)
Atlantic Technology IC6-OBA x 4 Overhead Speakers
Dual Rythmik FV15HP2
Mini DSP HD controlling all subwoofers
Audioquest and Monoprice - Audio/Video/Speaker Cabling