Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Gets Glowing Response From Critics

By Cade Onder - March 23, 2022 10:29 pm EDT

The first impressions of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 are in and critics are loving it. Despite some controversy surrounding how Sonic looked before the first film came out, it was a roaring success and was one of the last big movies to release before the pandemic. It continued to find success when it was pushed to streaming after theaters temporarily closed down in early 2020, giving families something to watch while stuck inside. The massive success allowed Paramount to quickly greenlight a sequel and roughly two years later, the sequel is now out. This time, Sonic is joined by Tails and Knuckles in his new adventure and it looks like it could top the first film.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 has already screened for a number of critics and the reception to the film seems to be overwhelmingly positive. The first social media reactions are calling the film fun and an improvement over the first film, largely because it embraces its video game roots and moves towards being an action movie. Many also cited the humor and performances from the cast, all of whom inject some heart into the upcoming video game adaptation. ComicBook's Chris Killian also noted that fans should stick around until the end of the credits for a surprise.

Given video game adaptations can be hit or miss, it's good to hear the sequel delivers. The first one was a surprise, but had its issues. It seems like Sonic the Hedgehog 2 has found its footing and knows what its wants to be, establishing a confident identity. Paramount seems to be pleased with the film already as it has confirmed it is already developing Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Full reviews are embargoed for the time being, but they're expected to be released ahead of the film.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will release in theaters on April 8th, 2022. You can read more of our coverage of the film by clicking here.

Will you be seeing Sonic the Hedgehog 2? Let me know in the comments below or hit me up on Twitter @Cade_Onder. Keep reading for some of the reactions to Sonic the Hedgehog 2.

New Characters Make It Feel More Like Sonic

Good news! #Sonic2 is every bit as fun as the first one and the kids’ll love it. The addition of Tails & Knuckles makes it feel more like Sonic. Once again, @JimCarrey is awesome as Robotnik, but this round, some of the other characters get some time to shine too. #SonicMovie2 pic.twitter.com/K1DrzCvOy2
— Chris Killian (@chriskillian) March 24, 2022

A Worthy Successor

#SonicMovie2 is a worthy successor. The kids in my theater were howling. It has all the winks, nods, nostalgia and laughs fans of the first movie could ever want, and feels more loyal to its game roots than ever. pic.twitter.com/gOEf0yR5qw
— Ash Crossan (@AshCrossan) March 24, 2022

A Sonic Blast of Nostalgic Fun

I won't go too deep just yet, but the themes of heroism, friendship, and even honor made this such fun to watch unfold. The Sonic Universe is forming now, and as someone who jumped on with Sonic 2 in the Genesis days, seeing well done Sonic movies makes me smile. pic.twitter.com/h6V46Og2g6
— Mike Reyes (@MrControversy83) March 24, 2022

A Trio That Delivers Heart & Humor

Good news! #SonicMovie2 is A LOT of fun – a much bigger, more action-driven film than the first Sonic w/ great jokes & plenty for longtime fans. Jim Carrey is next-level maniacal as Robotnik, but for me it’s all Sonic, Tails & Knuckles. That trio delivers a TON of heart & humor pic.twitter.com/agkgQ1kwFV
— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) March 24, 2022

A Love Letter to Video Game Lovers

Just saw #SonicTheHedgehog 2 and it’s a love letter to video game lovers. Had a ton of fun with it. Unlike a lot of blockbusters the 3rd act is bananas and the strongest of the film. @JimCarrey reigns supreme. #Sonic @sonic_hedgehog pic.twitter.com/vlEckpuhgl
— Nikki Novak (@NikkiNovak) March 24, 2022

Something for Kids and Adults

#SonicMovie2 is EVERYTHING I wanted filled with moments I didn't know I was allowed to ask for. It makes the first #Sonic look like child's play. I witnessed children & adult collectively losing their minds. Overall, it made my heart smile, and I can't wait for the sequel. pic.twitter.com/bFrxRbyRAi
— Dana (Store Name) #AmplifyBlackVoices @ #SXSW (@sagesurge) March 24, 2022

A Talented Cast of Heroes

Ben Schwartz nails it as #Sonic yet again. Idris Elba absolutely crushes it as #Knuckles. Colleen O'Shaughnessey does an incredible job bringing #Tails to the big screen. I can not wait to see more of them in the future! #SonicMovie2 pic.twitter.com/lTVQAtUsfL
— Dorian Parks (@DorianParksnRec) March 24, 2022

Comedy, Heart, and Lots of Action

I just saw the final cut of #SonicMovie2 in a theatre and it. was. AWESOME! I'm so proud to be a part of this franchise. Can't wait for you to see it! @fowltown filled this thing to the brim with comedy, heart & SO MUCH ACTION! GET READY. THIS IS NOT A GAME. But it's based on one pic.twitter.com/ai51y1sMUf
— Ben Schwartz (@rejectedjokes) March 24, 2022