It wasn’t too long ago that the live-action film adaptation of Sonic the Hedgehog debuted on the silver screen, but fans now have a sequel, a Knuckles spin-off series, and another forthcoming threequel to enjoy. While the franchise continues to map out its cinematic future, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 stars Idris Elba and Keanu Reeves, who voice Knuckles and Shadow respectively, have expressed their interest in a potential team-up between the pair.
Elba entertained the idea in an interview with Comic Book, saying, “I’m telling you…” A mash-up of both names does offer some room for unique titles like Shadow Knuckles, but Reeves was quick to jump in with “No, Knuckles and Shadow,” only for the former to tease, “Shadow Knuckles sound like a band”.
Oh, wow, is there a Sonic 4? You know more than me, my guy,” added Elba, when asked on the next “I would say I’d love to do it. Any chance to understand the characters a little bit more, in the different episodes … If [the filmmakers are] in, I’m down.”
The two characters will face off in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, slated to race into theatres on 20 December. Ben Schwartz is reprising his role as the titular speedster, joining Elba and Colleen O’Shaunghnessey (Tails) in the returning cast. James Marsden and Tika Sumpter will continue to portray Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles’ adopted parents, with Krysten Ritter, Sofia Pernas, Cristo Fernández, James Wolk, and Jorma Taccone cast in undisclosed roles.
For longtime enthusiasts, the movie is set to feature easter eggs from the games, including a Chao Garden Café and a gun-wielding Shadow — a direct reference to SEGA’s 2005 offshoot title, Shadow the Hedgehog. It also marks the live-action debut of the jet-black hedgehog, following a tease in the post-credits scene of Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Following in its footsteps, director Jeff Fowler has hinted at the appearance of another franchise character at the end of the threequel, despite an unconfirmed fourth film.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
Kevin Low
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