The highly anticipated third installment in the Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise, "Sonic × Shadow: Tokyo Mission" (Sonic the Hedgehog 3), is set to hit theaters on December 27, 2024, and the Japanese voice cast has been officially announced.

Star-Studded Voice Cast

Taishi Nakagawa reprises his role as Sonic in the Japanese dub, continuing his portrayal of the world-famous blue hedgehog. Joining him is Toshiyuki Morikawa, who lends his voice to the enigmatic anti-hero Shadow, originally voiced by Keanu Reeves in the English version. Shadow's tragic past ties closely to a new character, Maria, voiced by the talented Aoi Yuki.

Rounding out the cast are several returning stars:

Subaru Kimura as Knuckles, the red echidna warrior (played by Idris Elba in the English version).
Ryo Hirohashi as Tails, the two-tailed fox and Sonic’s trusted sidekick.
Yuichi Nakamura and Marina Inoue as Tom and Maddie, Sonic’s adoptive human family.
Daiki Hamano as Agent Stone, the loyal assistant to the villainous Dr. Robotnik.
Notably, Kōichi Yamadera continues his legacy as the Japanese voice for Jim Carrey’s eccentric Dr. Robotnik, while also voicing Robotnik's lookalike grandfather, Gerald.

A Return to Sonic’s Homeland

Set in Japan, Sonic × Shadow: Tokyo Mission marks the series’ first adventure in Sonic’s "homeland." From high-speed chases through Tokyo’s neon-lit streets to a climactic showdown in the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing, this latest entry promises thrilling action with a distinctly Japanese flair.

Nakagawa expressed his excitement for this new chapter, stating:

“Reuniting with Sonic is always exhilarating. Seeing his face again fills me with energy, as if no time has passed since our last adventure. This time, Sonic faces new challenges, and I’m eager for fans to witness his growth.”

Meanwhile, Morikawa reflected on his experience voicing Shadow:

“Being part of the Sonic series is an honor. Shadow is such an iconic character, and it’s a thrill to voice him alongside Keanu Reeves in the English version. Shadow’s depth and complexity make him a joy to portray.”

Aoi Yuki, a self-proclaimed Shadow enthusiast, shared her reaction to landing the role of Maria:

“I was shocked to see Maria’s name on the cast list. To voice someone so deeply connected to Shadow feels surreal. I’ve poured my heart into this performance and hope fans can feel the passion.”

Dual Roles for Jim Carrey

In a bold move, Jim Carrey plays both Dr. Robotnik and his grandfather Gerald in the film, with Yamadera providing the Japanese dub for both roles. Yamadera described the challenge of dubbing Carrey’s dual performance as an honor, saying:

“The interactions between Robotnik and Gerald were demanding but deeply rewarding. Jim Carrey never fails to surprise me, and it’s a privilege to continue this journey with him.”

Japanese Dub Trailer Released

A new trailer showcases the high-energy battle between Sonic and Shadow, set against the vibrant streets of Shibuya. The preview also highlights Carrey’s masterful portrayal of both Robotnik and Gerald, setting the stage for a global showdown that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.

Source : ORICON NEWS