“I was like is this real?“: Fans rave over incredible Sonic 3 scenes as Shadow’s role steals the spotlight

Sonic 3 has smashed its way into the hearts of critics and audiences alike since its release on December 20, 2024. Directed by Jeff Fowler, the action-adventure film is based on the story written by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, which was adapted for the screen by Casey, Miller, and John Whittington.

Sonic 3 has received rave reviews, with many praising the film's antagonist Shadow, voiced by Keanu Reeves. Fans also pointed out the moon scene as a highlight in an already incredible film. One X user tweeted in response to the scene by commenting:

"I was like is this real? Am i really watching this in a sonic movie in 2024???"

Fans of the previous films and the eponymous video game series were very impressed with Shadow's depiction in the movie, particularly Keanu Reeve's peformance. Many fans took to X to express their love for the film and particularly, Shadow.

“Shadow’s story is handled beautifully with Keanu Reeves perfectly encapturing the character. Any fan of Shadow will be happy with what Jeff Fowlers has managed to deliver,” tweeted one fan.

“Saw Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and all I can think about is Shadow…” gushed another.

“All Hail Shadow - Sonic The Hedgehog 3,” commented a fan.

Other online users praised the film for being a wholesome cinematic experience during the Holiday season.

“I ONLY CRIED 3 TIMES EXPERIENCING PEAK CINEMA. Sonic 3 was SO much better than I expected and a blast to watch in the theater--this film truly understands the essence of who Shadow is, and has SO much passion and love put into it,” one fan said in excitement .

“#SonicTheHedeghog 3 has set a new bar for video game adaptations. It takes everything you love from the first two installments and unapologetically cranks it up to 11 while also delivering the most thematically rich and emotionally heavy story yet. Keanu Reeves’ Shadow is 100/10,” said another fan.

“Sonic The Hedgehog 3 is ABSOLUTE PEAK! I don’t know much about the Sonic lore but WOW! Who would have thought there were amazing stories and amazing character backgrounds. Shadow’s backstory is the highlight of the movie. IT WAS WORTH THE WAIT! 9/10,” commented one fan.

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Plot summary of Sonic 3

In Sonic 3 , Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles face a new and potent enemy in the form of Shadow the Hedgehog. He arrived on planet Earth in a meteorite in 1974 and was captured by the Guardian Units of Nations (G.U.N), led by Gerald Robotnik.

Shadow formed a close bond with Maria, Robotnik's granddaughter, and tried to escape the facility along with the Robotniks. However, their escape attempt ended with Maria's death and Shadow's capture. After spending decades in suspended animation, Shadow is awakened in the present time and seeks to avenge Maria's death.

Elsewhere, Director Rockwell, the new leader of G.U.N., recruits Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles to defeat Shadow after he wreaks havoc in Tokyo. Connected by their shared loss of Maria, Shadow and Professor Gerald vow to destroy Earth together. Ivo Robotnik, revealed to be Gerald's grandson, joins them on their mission.

They put their plan in motion by activating the Eclipse Cannon, a weapon of mass destruction, using the two digital keycards obtained from Sonic and his team.

During his one-on-one battle with Shadow, Sonic empathizes with Shadow's loss, prompting the latter to abandon his quest for vengeance. Moreover, Shadow promises to fix the mess he created by stopping Gerald from fulfilling his evil plan. He teams up with Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Ivo, who breaks away from his grandfather.

After defeating Gerald, Ivo and Shadow prevent the Eclipse Cannon from destroying Earth, but seem to sacrifice their lives in the process.

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Cast and characters of Sonic 3

The voice cast list of Sonic 3 is given below:

• Ben Schwartz as Sonic the Hedgehog
• Colleen O'Shaughnessey as Miles 'Tails' Prower
• Idris Elba as Knuckles the Echidna
• Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog
• Jim Carrey as Dr. Ivo Robotnik/Professor Gerald Robotnik
• James Marsden as Tom Wachowski
• Tika Sumpter as Maddie Wachowski
• Krysten Ritter as Director Rockwell
• Natasha Rothwell as Rachel
• Shemar Moore as Randall Handel
• Lee Majdoub as Agent Stone
• Tom Butler as Commander Walters
• James Wolk as the young Commander Walters
• Adam Pally as Wade Whipple
• Alyla Browne as Maria Robotnik
• Jorma Taccone plays Kyle Lancebottom

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Sonic 3 is currently playing in theaters nationwide.