'Sonic the Hedgehog 3's trailer features Keanu Reeves as the villain: Watch it here!© Paramount Pictures Presents / Sega Sammy Group

'Sonic the Hedgehog 3's trailer features Keanu Reeves as the villain: Watch it here!

Reeves brings a powerful presence to this new villain


Senior Writer
AUGUST 30, 2024 12:02 PM EDT

Sonic fans must be thrilled as the beloved blue blur is racing back to theaters this holiday season in "Sonic the Hedgehog 3," which promises to be his most fun adventure yet. Scheduled for release ahead of Christmas on December 20, 2024, the film reunites Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails as they face their toughest challenge: a mysterious new adversary named Shadow, whose powers eclipse anything they've encountered.

Directed by Jeff Fowler, who returns after successfully helming the first two installments, "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" deepens into the heart of action-packed storytelling. This time, the stakes are higher as Shadow threatens not just Team Sonic but the fate of the entire planet. With their abilities outmatched in every way, Sonic and his friends are forced to seek an unlikely alliance to stop this enigmatic foe.

© Paramount Pictures Presents / Sega Sammy Group

An All-Star Cast Joins the Adventure

The upcoming film features an all-star ensemble with familiar faces and exciting newcomers. Jim Carrey returns as the iconic Dr. Robotnik, bringing his signature humor and eccentricity to the role. Ben Schwartz reprises his role as Sonic's voice, while James Marsden and Tika Sumpter return as Tom and Maddie Wachowski, the human friends who have become like family to Sonic.

Idris Elba is back as the voice of Knuckles, adding his unmistakable charisma and strength to the character. Colleen O'Shaughnessey continues to voice the beloved Tails, who remains the brainy sidekick with a heart of gold. The cast includes Natasha Rothwell, Shemar Moore, Adam Pally, and Lee Majdoub, who reprise their roles alongside newcomers Alyla Browne and Krysten Ritter, adding fresh energy to the franchise.

However, the most exciting addition to the cast is Keanu Reeves, who joins the Sonic universe as the Shadow the Hedgehog. Known for his roles in action-packed franchises like "John Wick" and "The Matrix," Reeves brings a powerful presence to this new villain, whose mysterious powers and motives will challenge everything Team Sonic knows about their world—and themselves.

© Getty Images
Keanu Reeves

Behind the Scenes: A Stellar Creative Team

The screenplay, penned by returning writers Pat Casey and Josh Miller alongside John Whittington, promises to capture the spirit of the SEGA video game series while introducing new elements that elevate the story to new heights. With humor, heart, and high-stakes action, the writers aim to create a narrative that resonates with longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Jeff Fowler's direction, combined with a dynamic script and exceptional cast, is set to deliver a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience. Fowler's previous work on the franchise has been praised for its ability to balance nostalgia with fresh, innovative storytelling, making him the perfect choice to steer Sonic's latest adventure.

© Paramount Pictures Presents / Sega Sammy Group

Mark Your Calendars

"Sonic the Hedgehog 3" hits theaters on December 20, 2024, just in time for the holiday season. Prepare for a high-speed, high-stakes adventure filled with unexpected twists, thrilling confrontations, and a few surprises.

Enjoy the trailer below