Story
Sonic the Hedgehog (voiced by Ben Schwartz) has incredible super powers: he can run at supersonic speed, turn into a spin ball with an impact similar to a missile, and generate bolts of electricity. But his powers put him at risk. For Sonic’s protection, Sonic’s guardian, a wise owl, helps him escape from his home planet to Earth, advising him to stay hidden.
Sonic finds himself in the remote Montana country town of Green Hills. For about 10 years Sonic manages to keep a low profile but he struggles with living in the shadows and feeling lonely. One night he gets particularly frustrated and accidentally releases a power surge that causes a nationwide blackout. Mystified, the US military hires notoriously crazy but ingenious scientist Dr Robotnik (Jim Carrey) to find out what’s going on. Dr Robotnik soon discovers Sonic and his incredible power. Dr Robotnik wants to capture Sonic to revolutionise his army of drones and robots.
Sonic turns to his favourite human, local police officer Tom (James Marsden), for help. Soon Tom and Sonic are on a road trip that gets them into all sorts of trouble.
Themes
Friendship; good versus evil; finding out where you belong and what your place and purpose in life is.
Violence
Sonic the Hedgehog has some violence. For example:
- Tom shoots a sedative dart at Sonic, which tranquilises him.
- Tom punches Dr Robotnik in the face several times.
- Dr Robotnik sends drones after Tom and Sonic with the aim of harming and even killing them. The drones fire bullets, fireballs and lasers.
- Tom and Sonic get involved in a bar fight where people fight with their fists, throw things and smash things. Sonic has a ‘bucket list’ that includes ‘Start a bar fight’, so he gets to tick this item off his list.
- There are a lot of explosions that damage cars and buildings.
Sexual references
None noted.
Alcohol, drugs and other substances
Sonic the Hedgehog shows some substance use. For example:
- Sonic and Tom go to a biker bar where people party and drink.
- Tom drinks beer. It isn’t clear how many drinks he has. Shortly after he drives a car.
Nudity and sexual activity
None noted.
Product placement
The following products or brands are displayed or used in Sonic the Hedgehog: Sega video games and Olive Garden, an Italian restaurant chain.
Coarse language
Sonic the Hedgehog has some mild coarse language, including ‘egg sack’, ‘butt’, ‘Officer Brainfart’ and ‘You son of a ...’.
Ideas to discuss with your children
Likely to appeal to a family audience with children aged over eight years, Sonic the Hedgehog is an action comedy featuring the famous Sega video game character. Jim Carrey shines as a crazy and villainous scientist.
Frequent action violence and some reckless behaviour means that Sonic the Hedgehog is unsuitable for children under 6 years. We recommend parental guidance for children aged 6-8 years.
The main messages from this movie are that everybody needs friends and a place to call home.
Values in this movie that you could reinforce with your children include comradeship and friendship. The movie also emphasises the importance of helping others and listening to your heart.
This movie could also give you the chance to talk with your children about real-life issues like how the desire for power can make people lose touch with their humanity.