Sonic 3’s first promo art has been shared by Discussing Film (via @InPursuitOfToys from Twitter). Paramount is yet to reveal the official first look of the upcoming threequel. But what we have for you here is very exciting.
The latest promo art features the protagonist Sonic the Hedgehog, along with his buddies Tails and Knuckles. At the top of the art, we can see Shadow’s fiery eyes. Check out the promo art below!
Last month, Paramount revealed that they had cast the one and only Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog in Sonic 3, a decision that met with instant approval from the video game series’ fanbase. Shadow is incredibly popular with Sonic fans. Plus, Paramount has the perfect opportunity to leverage Reeves’ popularity. The star of John Wick isn’t just about action. He can make us laugh too, like with his unforgettable voice performance as Duke Caboom in Toy Story 4. He also voiced Batman in the animated DC League of Super Pets movie, which serves as a perfect template for voicing Shadow in the forthcoming threequel.
Let’s bring our attention back to Shadow! His inclusion in Sonic 3 seems like a perfect fit. What makes him such a great character is the fact that we’ve seen him walk a thin line between hero and anti-hero many times (both in video games and TV shows). Plus, among all other characters from the Sonic franchise, Shadow has the most tragic past of them all.
Created by Professor Gerald Robotnik (the grandfather of Dr. Ivo Robotnik, aka Eggman), Shadow is a powerful anthropomorphic black hedgehog with red spikes. After witnessing the tragic demise of his best friend, Maria Robotnik, he initially seeks to avenge her death. However, he later promises her that he will save the world from all sorts of danger, no matter what it takes. This mindset has put Shadow at odds with Sonic many times.
In addition, Shadow’s powers evenly match with Sonic’s – a scenario that has aided the former in pushing the protagonist to his limits many times. Shadow’s brooding and dark persona is a stark contrast to Sonic’s jolliness and optimistic heroism. This may force Sonic to question his own motives in the forthcoming third installment.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 stars Ben Schwartz, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Idris Elba, Keanu Reeves, Jim Carrey, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Tom Butler, and more. It will come out in theatres worldwide on December 20, 2024. Stay tuned for more updates.