For a long time all of us video game fans have been wondering just when Hollywood would start treating video game adaptations with the same attention to detail as a book adaptation (although, given certain adaptations that may not be a good thing). Who could forget such travesties and curios as SUPER MARIO BROTHERS, STREET FIGHTER, DOUBLE DRAGON, and my personal favorite DOA: DEAD OR ALIVE. Truly it seemed impossible for Hollywood to get a video game property right (with the big exception of the original SILENT HILL movie). Hmm... I foresee a juicy top ten list here...
It seems like video game adaptations are taking a turn for the better. With Netflix nailing CASTLEVANIA (the show becoming the highest critically rated video game adaptation of all time) and the successes of DETECTIVE PIKACHU (sadly I haven't seen it yet) and RAMPAGE, it seems our beloved video games are finally getting the big screen respect they deserve. And there are even those who are already betting on video game films (now that the code has been cracked) as the next big film craze after super heroes.
I don't normally report on "Family Films" but for SONIC THE HEDGEHOG I'll make an exception. The movie was a lot of fun, not taking itself too seriously, and genuinely trying to treat the Blue Blur right. And while the movie isn't a direct retelling of the game, Sonic feels like he should. And Dr. Eggman/Robotnik, while beginning in a different form, starts looking like he should by the end. All in all, for Sonic fans, this a pretty good start.
Sonic as a character is charismatic, high energy, with an innocent and genuine naivete. Dr. Robotnik is Jim Carrey tapping into his classic 90's playbook evoking fun memories of seeing Ace Ventura, Dumb and Dumber, and The Mask in theaters as a kid. And James Marsden play the classic everyday man who is in over his head. And there are some great video game references and jokes for us old fans. I loved Sonic's revulsion to going to a world full of mushrooms (a jab at Mario, me thinks?). Sonic (the movie) has a lot of heart, touching on issues of isolation, loneliness, friendship, and loyalty. These themes are at the film's core and where it succeeds.
I'm making the film sound more grand than it really is though. This movie doesn't change the way films will be made nor does it break away from "franchise building standards." And, if I'm being honest, I wish the film would've had more elements from the video games, going so far as to be set completely on Sonic's homeworld with his entire cast of friends (but I understand that would require a lot more CGI and money). But even so, the movie respects the source material and sets the stage for a truly faithful recreation of the video game franchise in a sequel (if they get the chance).
All in all, I feel this movie succeeded as both a family film and a video game adaption. So, bravo to the filmmakers! And here's hoping they get the chance to do a sequel and the sequel leans even more into the world of Sonic and his extended cast (give me Knuckles and Shadow!).
Overall Ranking: 7 out of 10
Now, if Sega starts to feel confident I'd love to see adaptations of STREETS OF RAGE, GOLDEN AXE, PHANTASY STAR, and ALTERED BEAST. But most especially... I... want...
SHINOBI!
GO SEGA!
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