Sonic, the globally recognized character created by Sega, one of Japan's leading game creators, is set to return to the big screen in the latest installment of the Sonic the Hedgehog series, titled ‘Sonic × Shadow TOKYO MISSION’ (Original Title: Sonic The Hedgehog 3, U.S. Release Date: December 20th), which will be released in Japan on December 27th (Distributed by Toho Pictures).

The Hollywood producer Neal Moritz, known for the wildly successful ‘Fast & Furious’ series, leads the production with Original Film. The first film, ‘Sonic the Hedgehog,’ was released in 2020, followed by the second installment, ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2: Sonic vs. Knuckles’ in 2022. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the series has grossed over $720 million worldwide, making it one of Hollywood’s blockbuster franchises.

In the previous film, ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2: Sonic vs. Knuckles,’ the popular character Shadow made his debut at the end, fueling anticipation for a new film featuring him as a central character. On the 27th, at 10 PM JST, the new film’s trailer was released simultaneously worldwide.

Set in Japan, the home of Sega and Sonic, the trailer reveals Shadow, the dark anti-hero who awakens from a long slumber on a secluded island in Tokyo Bay. After destroying the facility where he was imprisoned, Shadow descends upon Shibuya, one of Tokyo's iconic districts.

In response to this global crisis, Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles—familiar members of the series—are dispatched to face off against Shadow in the middle of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing. The trailer showcases a massive scale and supersonic action set against the Tokyo backdrop, promising the most thrilling installment yet.

The newly released poster also features a Tokyo setting, with Sonic and Shadow clashing against the backdrop of Tokyo Tower, resulting in an intense visual full of Japanese flavor.

The Japanese title, ‘Sonic × Shadow TOKYO MISSION,’ was decided through collaboration between the production team of ‘Fast & Furious’ and the Japanese Sonic team, reflecting their love and message for Japanese fans.

Keanu Reeves will voice Shadow, the dark anti-hero who harbors a deep-seated grudge against the world due to his tragic past and lives in complete solitude. Known for portraying dark, solitary heroes like John Wick, Reeves is the perfect fit for Shadow, making this casting choice a natural one.

Additionally, Jim Carrey, who has delivered unforgettable performances as the evil genius Dr. Robotnik in the previous films, will take on a dual role in this film. The trailer shows Dr. Robotnik, who is asked for help by Sonic’s team to save the world from Shadow, forming an unexpected alliance.

Towards the end of the trailer, Jim Carrey also appears as an elderly man resembling Dr. Robotnik, leading to questions about this character’s identity and his role in the story. Fans can look forward to enjoying twice the zaniness of Jim Carrey’s performances, which are beloved by Japanese audiences.

Before the trailer’s release, on the evening of the 25th, Shinjuku in Tokyo featured a projection of Sonic’s stylish logo and the cryptic message "The Mission Begins in Tokyo" on the famous 3D cat screen at Shinjuku Cross Vision. Similar promotional events, including projection mapping and digital signage, took place in major cities worldwide, such as New York, Los Angeles, London, Rio de Janeiro, Sydney, and Rome, marking the grand scale of promotion typical of a Hollywood blockbuster.

Source : ORICON NEWS