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There are a few elements that make the Sonic the Hedgehog movies stand out. Chief among them is the casting: Ben Schwartz deserves all the flowers for his performance as Sonic, while Idris Elbaand Keanu Reevesbring fan-favorite characters like Knuckles the Echinda and Shadow the Hedgehog to life. But the biggest draw has to be Jim Carreyas Sonic's nemesis, Dr. Ivo Robotnik.

Sonic the Hedgehog, Tails and Knuckles are facing their greatest enemy yet: the unbeatable Shadow.

The third film in the Sega video game-inspired franchise is now available to stream at home. Sonic 3 is available to buy for $24.99 or rent for $19.99 for digital streaming on Apple TV, Prime Video and other premium video-on-demand platforms. It’s expected to stream on demand on Paramount+.

At a glance: How to stream Sonic 3 online

Release date: Buy or rent online: Apple TV, Prime Video Stream online: Paramount+ Get Paramount+

Sonic 3 sees its spikey blue hero (voiced by Ben Schwartz) celebrating his birthday with his furry superhero pals Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey) and Knuckles (Idris Elba) and his adoptive human parents, Tom (James Marsden) and Maddie (Tika Sumpter). Their party is cut short when they’re called by the government agency G.U.N. to stop Shadow (Keanu Reeves), a powerful space hedgehog on a mission for revenge.

Nsync fans clamoring for the return of the boy band will have to wait a little longer, as a gestating biopic project appears to be on hold.

Sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that veteran producer Neal H. Moritz, known for The Fast and the Furious and Sonic the Hedgehog, has been shopping the feature, which would focus on the group’s success in the aftermath of its legal battle with former manager Lou Pearlman, and has met with the five members — Justin Timberlake, Lance Bass, Joey Fatone, Jc Chasez and Chris Kirkpatrick — to seek their participation.

The project proceeded to the screenwriting stage amid talk of attaching Timberlake as an executive producer. But its road to the screen faced immediate challenges. Namely, the signoffs of all five members who share ownership in the name and each of whom is represented by a different management firm. “It’s complicated,” says one...

Shadow fans should pay attention, because the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise is hinting at the long-awaited return of a major villain from the antihero's past. 2024 was a great year for Shadow, featuring him prominently in both the video game and film mediums, but he didn't make as strong of an impression in Idw Publishing's comics. Luckily, Shadow's upcoming series intends to fix that by spotlighting him and - by the looks of it - his greatest enemy.

Sonic the Hedgehog: Chasing Shadows #1 by Kiel Phegley and Jonathan Gray will follow Shadow the Hedgehog as he embarks on a solo adventure. The official cover art has been unveiled, drawn by Nathalie Fourdraine, and it includes a clever clue about what Shadow's journey holds.

Shadow is pictured alongside a bed of flowers, but these flowers aren't as unassuming as they seem. They bear a striking resemblance to Doom's Eye, an entity...

The reaction to Sonic the Hedgehog's infamous original design was truly an example of Internet solidarity. And even three movies and broken box office records later — including a brand-new benchmark as of yesterday evening — Sonic the Hedgehog 3 star Ben Schwartz can't help but joke about what could have been. As Sonic and his friends sprinted past the $1 billion mark, Schwartz took to the internet to thank his supporters, and remind us all about the worst video game design in history.

Since its release just a few weeks ago, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has helped the franchise soar to new heights with record-breaking numbers and overwhelmingly positive reviews. After an impressive $338 million at the global box office was earned by Sonic 3 alone, the Sega saga became the fourth-highest-grossing video game franchise in history, surpassed only by Resident Evil, Pokémon, and Super Mario Bros.

In a celebratory post on...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 introduced Keanu Reeves' Shadow the Hedgehog to the franchise, although it ignored an expected Keanu Reeves joke after the franchise's previous references. Keanu Reeves is one of the biggest actors in the live-action Sonic the Hedgehog movie series, with him providing the voice of the Ultimate Life Form after his introduction in Sonic the Hedgehog 2's post-credits scene. Now that Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is out, Keanu Reeves is a staple of the series, which is why it's surprising that this Keanu Reeves running joke didn't come back.

Although Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is the first time that Keanu Reeves is playing a character in the series, it isn't the first time that the actor had an impact on a Sonic the Hedgehog movie. In the original Sonic the Hedgehog film, Sonic cites Keanu Reeves' 1994 film Speed as his favorite movie, with him learning about...

In just a couple of short days, 2024 will draw to a close. With that in mind, this week we’ve run articles listing our favorite films of the year, as well as our favorite horror films of the year, but now it’s time for you, dear readers, to have your say. Indeed, it’s been a strange year. With the dual WGA/SAG strikes last year, the supply chain of films cooled down a bit. While the year got off to a fantastic start, with Dune Part II, Godzilla x Kong: The New Era, and several other movies being blockbusters, the first half of the summer of 2024 was disastrous. Audiences didn’t seem to want to check out the first crop of would-be blockbusters the studios put out, with the under-performance of The Fall Guy, Furiosa, and Horizon Part I (whose sequel has yet to be released) casting a chill over the industry.

Fans were ecstatic over the news that Keanu Reeves was cast as Shadow in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. He was perfect for the part, fleshing out Shadow's stoic persona to a tee.

Screenwriter Josh Miller confirmed what fans have been saying about Keanu Reeves' performance in Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Shadow has been compared to Reeves' previous roles, most of which were stoic, reluctant protagonists. Reeves' voice was so iconic it defined Shadow's personality; Miller said Reeves was always first on the list to play Shadow in the movie. "Yeah, we certainly had [Keanu's] voice in our minds," he told Collider. "I think whether we wanted to or not, that was the talk even before starting on [Sonic 3]." Reeves also did Sonic fans a huge favor when he joined the series.

Related 'That's What We Needed for Shadow': Sonic 3 Director Reveals the Real Reason Keanu Reeves Was Cast

Sonic the Hedgehog 3...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has become the Paramount franchise's latest critical and commercial hit. Josh Miller and Pat Casey, the screenwriters behind all three Sonic movies, recently shared their thoughts on the third installment becoming the highest-rated one on the review aggregate website Rotten Tomatoes.

While speaking with Screen Rant to promote the video game adaptation, Miller and Casey admitted that they were both initially worried that Sonic 3 might fall victim to the threequel curse. "[It's] pretty great. It's not like it's unprecedented, but for three movies into a series, to have the general fan consensus seem to be that they just keep getting better?" Miller said, with Casey adding, "Yeah, third movies and trilogies, there's been a bit of a curse involved, with pretty rare exceptions." At the time of writing, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes at 88%, roughly 20 and 25 percent higher than Sonic 2 (69%) and Sonic 1 (64%), respectively.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has taken in nearly $70 million at the worldwide box office so far since its Dec. 20 release. Now, the film’s co-writers have a few ideas on which video game franchises they would like to see on the big screen. Per IGN, Sonic 3 co-writers Pat Casey and Josh Miller said they would love to make a The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker spinoff movie.

“I think another easy one I think we can answer because the movie’s already happening, and we’re already not doing would be Zelda,” Miller said. “I remember when we played Wind Waker, we were always like, man, I mean it, it would probably be weird if they made a Zelda movie to start with Wind Waker versus the more classic Hyrule. But we both loved Wind Waker, and it’s so cinematic."

“Yeah, so after they make this Zelda movie,...

Sonic The Hedgehog 3 Box Office (North America): 1st Monday Update ( Photo Credit – Instagram )

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is already enjoying Christmas spirits as it scores record numbers on the first Monday. It is benefitting from strong and positive word of mouth. The film registered the second-biggest opening weekend in the franchise, staying behind the second installment. Scroll below for more.

The threequel also received an A on CinemaScore, making it the only franchise to get that rating in all the three movies. It has not yet been released in all the international markets. It was directed by Jeff Fowler, and Keanu Reeves joined the cast as Shadow the Hedgehog, who joins the mad scientists Ivo and Gerald Robotnik in pursuit of revenge against humanity. The film reportedly had a budget of $122 million; another fourth film is in development.

Based on Luiz Fernando’s report, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 maintained...

Paramount's Sonic the Hedgehog 3 proved that it could hold its own again the king of the jungle, Disney's Mufasa: The Lion King. The two films opened on the same weekend domestically and there was not much of a battle.

Per Deadline, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 sped to the first spot at the box office this year, beating Disney's latest entry, Mufasa: The Lion King. Both titles follow successful IPs, as Sonic serves as a sequel, while Mufasa is a spinoff prequel and sequel to 2019's The Lion King. Paramount's Sonic the Hedgehog 3 had a $62 million opening, almost double Disney's Mufasa's $35 million domestically.

Related 'If Sonic Is Running, I'm Running': Sonic 3 Star Reveals Voice Acting Process

The voice of Sonic the Hedgehog talks about his voice acting process and what it was like making the film with Keanu Reeves, the voice of Shadow.

At the same time,...

Warning: Spoilers ahead for Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Paramount's video game film Sonic the Hedgehog 3 brought the titular hero's cinematic universe to a spectacular new high, setting up stories to come. After introducing characters like Shadow the Hedgehog and Prof. Gerald Robotnik to the hit franchise, this threequel set the stage for more greatness with its upcoming sequel, Sonic the Hedgehog 4.

Specifically, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 featured a mid-credits scene in which Sonic gets cornered by copies of Metal Sonic, the blue blur's android doppelgänger. However, these killer robots are defeated by Sonic icon Amy Rose, the hero's ally and hammer-wielding love interest from the video games. Combined with the events of its main story, Sonic the Hedgehog 3's introduction of Amy and Metal Sonic carries enormous implications for what Sonic the Hedgehog 4 will be about, as it could adapt the events of three classic Sonic video games.

The debut Rotten Tomatoes score for the new sequel Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has been revealed. The initial response is very positive, setting a new high for the hit movie series.

On Rotten Tomatoes, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has debuted with a score of 89%. This is high above Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic the Hedgehog 2, which had respective scores of 64% and 69%. Those two films also had audience scores of 96% and 93%, and matching those scores will be another challenge. As Sonic 3 hits theaters this weekend, it doesn't yet have an audience score of its own, but landing so well with the critics is an excellent start for the threequel's reception. Meanwhile, the Paramount+ spinoff series, Knuckles, has a 75% approval rating from critics with a 67% audience score.

Related Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Director Addresses Jim Carrey's Future as Robotnik

Sonic the Hedgehog 3's Jeff Fowler addresses Jim Carrey's potential...

While you’re busy stuffing your face with turkey or struggling to digest that extra slice of pie this Christmas, Paramount’s Sonic 3 will be zooming past you, leaving both audiences and critics eating its dust.

Jim Carrey as Dr. Ivo Robotnik in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 | Credit: Paramount Pictures

Ever had that feeling when something’s just right? Like when you hear a song that’s been stuck in your head for years, or when a movie unexpectedly hits all the right notes? Well, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is that sweet spot for fans craving high-speed thrills and a healthy dose of cinematic nostalgia. And let’s not forget the cherry on top—Jim Carrey’s return has cranked this ride up a notch you didn’t even know you needed.

Oh, and the critics? They’re head over heels for it. The latest addition to the Sonic franchise...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is officially coming out on December 20, 2024. and is expected to be yet another hit in the franchise that adapts one of the most famous video game series of all time. The first two films received positive reviews, and the initial reactions to the third movie were overwhelmingly positive.

The movie will introduce Shadow the Hedgehog, whose appearance has been foreshadowed in the second film, who will be voiced by Keanu Reeves. The movie is coming out very soon, and the excitement is slowly rising ahead of next week’s premiere.

In light of that, our friends at The Hollywood Handle conducted an interview with the movie’s director, Jeff Fowler. In this interesting discussion, Fowler revealed more information about the franchise’s future, as well as some other projects, so if you want to know everything that has been said, keep reading to find out all you need to know!

On Saturday December 14 2024, Nickelodeon broadcasts Sonic Prime!

The Yoke’s on You Season 1 Episode 2 Episode Summary

The upcoming episode of “Sonic Prime,” titled “The Yoke’s on You,” promises to be an exciting adventure filled with action and intrigue. Set to air on Nickelodeon, this episode revolves around a power outage that creates the perfect opportunity for two rebels. With the lights out, they plan to break into a lab where the Chaos Council is conducting important research on Sonic’s unique connection to a powerful energy source.

As the story unfolds, viewers will see how the rebels navigate the challenges of the darkened lab. The Chaos Council, known for their strict control and surveillance, will be on high alert. The episode will highlight the tension between the rebels and the Council, showcasing clever strategies and unexpected twists. The power outage not only serves as a backdrop but also adds...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is racing to cinemas this 20th, and that means that movie promotion is in full swing. Now, Build-a-Bear has revealed a Shadow the Hedgehog plushie with an eye-brow-raising accessory- and no, it’s not a gun.

Build-a-Bear has announced their collaboration with Paramount for the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Shoppers will have three characters to choose from: Sonic, Tails, and Shadow, with Idris Elba’s Knuckles absent from the lineup. Buyers will be able to purchase the plushies separately, with the price hovering around $34. If you want to go all out, Build-a-Bear also offers a gift set that includes a variety of accessories for the gang. Sonic’s gift set comes with a gold ring and will be priced at $59, while Tails’ set comes without any extra accessories and is priced at $42.

Related Sonic 3 Tracking to Surpass Big-Budget Disney Movie in December Box Office...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is right around the corner, and with it comes the introduction of a fan favorite character, Shadow the Hedgehog. Before Shadow was introduced, there were hints suggesting his arrival, and fans believe they may have spotted similar clues for another key character in the franchise.

A post on X, formerly known as Twitter, pointed out that Doctor Maddie Wachowskis outfit in the promotional material for the upcoming film was bright pink, which suggests that the next character to be introduced to the Sonic Cinematic Universe will be Amy Rose. The reason Maddies outfit could be a hint towards Amy the Hedgehogs introduction is that her outfits in the first two films were color coded to match the arrival of Tails and Shadow. In the first Sonic the Hedgehog, she wore yellow and blue, and Tails was introduced in the after-credits scene. In Sonic the Hedgehog 2,...

As we head into the late part of the fall, studios are starting to put out their awards-worthy fare, in addition to prestige blockbusters, which they hope will play well throughout the holiday movie season in late November, December and early January. One of the biggest movies coming out this fall, Gladiator II, got its first screenings this weekend, with raves all around for what many are calling director Ridley Scott’s best movie since Black Hawk Down. With October almost finished, we want to know what late fall release has you the most hyped! Take our poll below and let us know!

What late fall release has you the most hyped?Venom: The Last DanceHereHereticElevationRed OneGladiator 2Wicked: Part OneMoana 2WerewolvesNightbitchThe OrderKraven The HunterThe Lord of the Rings: The War of the RohirrimSonic the Hedgehog 3MufasaA Complete UnknownNosferatuBetter ManThe BrutalistOther (Let us know in the comments)Vote

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The Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise has been extremely kid-friendly in the first two installments, but Sonic the Hedgehog 3 needs to break a franchise trend because of how intense it looks. When it came time to bring Sega's iconic blue speedster to live-action, the original Sonic the Hedgehog maintained the same level of fun and levity that is common in the video games and other Sonic media. Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is continuing to explore the same group of characters, but Team Sonic's encounter with Shadow the Hedgehog is notably different already.

Building off Sonic the Hedgehog 2's post-credits scene, the third film in the series pits Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails against Shadow, one of the most powerful characters from the video game series. The introduction of Shadow was expected to bring a certain level of darkness and seriousness to the movie, as both characteristics are tied to the black hedgehog.

Keanu Reeves makes his debut as Shadow in Sonic the Hedgehog 3, fulfilling fan suggestions and speculation. Sonic the Hedgehog 3's star-studded cast includes returning actors alongside Reeves, promising an exciting sequel. Reeves' portrayal of Shadow stays true to his iconic voice, adding to his impressive list of roles in CGI and animated films.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 brings Shadow the Hedgehog into the franchise with a major role, and one of Hollywood's biggest actors voices the black hedgehog. The Sonic movie franchise told audiences that the popular video game character was coming in Sonic the Hedgehog 2's post-credits scene. The sequence set up Shadow's role in a sequel, teasing his game-accurate look, but leaving a major question regarding who would voice him. The result was plenty of fan casts and suggestions for who should voice Shadow in Sonic 3.

The official Sonic the Hedgehog 3 cast includes several...

“Alien: Romulus” has become Hollywood’s second biggest film of the year at the mainland China box office, following a strong second weekend hold.

The film picked up RMB140 million ($19.7 million) between Friday and Sunday in China, according to data from consultancy firm Artisan Gateway. That compares favorably with its $26.2 million opening weekend and gives it a cumulative of RMB523 ($73.7 million) since releasing on Aug. 16.

Among Hollywood import titles in 2024, the running total is beaten only by (Chinese-backed) “Godzilla v Kong” which amassed $134 million.

In less than two weeks, “Alien” has jumped ahead of a cluster of Hollywood’s other franchise titles and the $50 million ceiling that most have been stuck beneath. “Kung Fu Panda 4” earned $52 million in China. “Despicable Me 4” earned $56 million. “Dune 2” earned $49.7 million. “Inside Out 2” earned $48 million.

Imax reports that, of the latest weekend gross figure, the film earned $2.75 million on its screens.

One of the most underrated films of Christian Bale's career just got a massive streaming update. 3:10 to Yuma, the western crime thriller that stars Bale, Russell Crowe, and Ben Foster, will officially begin streaming on Netflix starting September 1. The film is part of a major addition to the platform headlined by Sonic the Hedgehog, which will also begin streaming on Netflix at the start of September. In addition to Bale, Crowe, and Foster, 3:10 to Yuma also stars Alan Tudyk, Logan Lerman, and Dallas Roberts, and the film currently sits at a "certified fresh" score of 89% from critics and an 86% rating from general audiences on the aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes.

In the ‘90s, Sega was known for taking big risks. Some of those risks (like the aggressive marketing of the Genesis and Sonic the Hedgehog) paid off. Others, like the surprise early launch of the Saturn, have gone down in gaming history as prime examples of what not to do in the console business. But then there were the fascinating experiments with add-ons like the Sega CD, which, while not commercially successful, offered some unique experiences that are still fondly remembered by those who owned them.

The Sega CD was not the first add-on of its kind, but it was the one that gained the most traction in the North American market, and for gamers who picked it up, it offered a glimpse into the future of gaming, where the larger data storage of discs meant bigger games with better graphics, sound, and full motion video.

Whether they were good,...

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto Unveil Unexpected Crossover Comic: Release Date and Where to Read - Main Image

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Tmnt) and Naruto are joining forces in an epic comic crossover, bringing the half-shell heroes and the beloved shinobi from the Leaf Village into a shared mission.

This unlikely yet thrilling crossover is poised to have a fresh and unique take on the legendary characters, making it a must-read for fans of both franchises.

Epic Crossover Alert: Tmnt Meets Naruto in New Comic Series

The world of ninja turtles meets the world of shinobi, as the unexpected crossover between these two beloved franchises is a four-issue comic series made possible by the collaboration between Idw Publishing and Viz Media.

Caleb Goellner (Sonic the Hedgehog) is writing the crossover comic, with Hendry Prasetya (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers) in charge of drawing, Raúl Angulo (Nyx) doing the coloring,...

Daniyar Salamat’s The Divorce was the first film from Kazakhstan to win the best film prize at the Shanghai International Film Festival (Siff)’s Golden Goblet Awards. It also secured the best actress award for Omarova Amira.

The 1920s-set film revolves around a husband and wife who are in a relationship crisis, while depicting the social realities that repress the role of women.

The jury praised the film for “the sophisticated form of its story which mixes comedy, farce and tragedy and moves fluidly from public sphere to the intimate relationship of a couple in crisis” and for “the...

A jury headed by French Vietnamese director Tranh Anh Hung awarded its Golden Goblet (Jin Jue) prizes for the Shanghai International Film Festival’s main competition.

The top prize for best feature went to “The Divorce,” directed by Kazakhstan’s Daniyar Salamat. The jury praised the film for its sophisticated story-telling which mixes comedy, farce and tragedy, and “which moves fluidly from public sphere to the intimate relationship of a couple in crisis” and its feeling of innocence.

The other jury members were Rolf de Heer (Australia), Matthias Glasner (Germany), Tony Leung Ka Fai (Hong Kong), Santiago Mitre (Argentina), Sonthar Gyal (China) and Zhou Xun (China).

In the separate Asian New Talents section, the best film prize went to “Friday, Funfair,” while double honors were accorded to Abhilash Sharma’s “in the Name of Fire.”

Prizes for the festival’s Siff Project market for co-financing scripts and works in progress...

The 26th Shanghai International Film Festival came to a glitzy conclusion Saturday as Kazakh film The Divorce, directed by Daniyar Salamat, took home the top Golden Goblet award for best feature at a star-studded closing ceremony in the Chinese commercial capital.

A period drama set in the 1920s during the establishment of Soviet authority on the Kazakh steppe, the film explores the convergence of marriage, religion and women’s rights through the story of a typical couple wrestling with the prospect of divorce.

Salamat was presented onstage with his trophy by the Oscar-nominated Vietnamese-French director Tran Anh Hung (Scent of Green Papaya, The Taste of Things), who served as Shanghai’s competition jury president this year. Hung and his fellow jurors praised the “sophisticated form” of The Divorce‘s story, “which mixes comedy, farce and tragedy,” and they hailed Salamat’s “ability to create the feeling of innocence, which radiates...

Nothing shows reverence for a character quite like cramming them inside a small sphere and sending them careening into bottomless pits hundreds of thousands of times. The latest character to get that treatment in Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble is Beat from Jet Set Radio , who follows the acts of Sonic the Hedgehog 's Sonic, Tails, Knuckles and Amy and Crazy Taxi 's Axel. Like the other characters, Beat will be available to purchase on his own or as part of the Sega Pass, which is $24.99 and comes packed in with the Digital Deluxe Edition.  Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble Beat Reveal Trailer Related: Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble Gets Ready for Adventure in New Trailer Featuring over 200 new stages,  Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble  is set to hit Nintendo Switch on June 25, 2024. Here's the official description: Join AiAi and friends in Super Monkey Ball Banana Rumble, where you and...

It has been commonplace in academic circles to divide up and label Chinese filmmakers into generations that reflect socio-political currents as much as cinematic style.

Chen Kaige and Zhang Yimou, who were educated at the end of the Cultural Revolution, are considered the leading lights of the “fifth generation.” The rebellious cluster that followed them, Zhang Yuan, Wang Xioashuai, Jia Zhangke and Lou Ye are among those labelled as “sixth generation.”

But with substantial bodies of work under their belts and international reputations already established, the sixth generation are no longer quite so new, nor so angry.

The four Chinese films selected for the main competition – all world premieres – at this year’s Shanghai International Film Festival represent a showcase of directors who are also known-quantities, but who are worthy of higher profiles. (The festival’s Asian Talent selection has a further selection of six more directors seeking to break through.

The Shanghai International Film Festival has unveiled a selection that is weighted heavily to world premieres and Chinese, local titles.

That gives the festival showcase screenings for the newest works by established Chinese directors Gu Changwei, Wei Shujun and Guan Hu (“Old Fish”).

Guan was rewarded in Cannes only last week for his Un Certain Regard-winning picture “Black Dog,” but will unveil his next effort “The Hedgehog in Shanghai’s main competition.

All but two of the 14 competition section films are world premiere screenings – only “Un Homme en Fuite” recently released in France, and “Le Seconda Vita,” recently released in Italy are international premieres – and all 11 films selected in the Asian New Talent Competition are debut screenings.

That makes the Shanghai lineup have little in common with other international festivals being held at this time of year. Most of those, typically, find house room for a sprinkling of standout titles from Sundance,...

The latest films by acclaimed Chinese directors Guan Hu, Wei Shujun, Gu Changwei and Zhang Dalei are among 14 features selected for the main competition at the upcoming 26th Shanghai International Film Festival.

The festival has announced a total of 50 films in contention for the Golden Goblet Awards, which further include 11 titles for the Asian New Talent competition, five each for the animated feature and documentary feature competition, and 15 for the short film competition. Between them are 38 world premieres – a new record for Siff – as well as six international premieres and six Asian premieres.

The main competition section carries four Chinese titles,...

Worldwide box office May 17-19 RankFilm (distributor)3-day (world)Cume (world)3-day (int’l)Cume (int’l)Territories 1. Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes (Disney) $66.6m $237.5m $40.6m $136.3m 53 2. If (Paramount) $55m $59m $20m $24m 59 3. The Fall Guy (Universal) $15.6m $127.6m $7.2m $64.6m 82 4. The Strangers: Chapter 1 (Lionsgate) $13.7m $13.7m $1.7m $1.7m 14 5. The Garfield Movie (Sony) $10.3m $49m $10.3m $49m 27 6. Twilight Of The Warriors: Walled In (various) $8m $77m $8m $77m 5 7. Tarot (Sony) $7m $29.9m $5m $14.5m 53 8. Un P’tit Truc En Plus (Pandis) $6.8m $25.9m $6.8m $25.9m 1 9. The Last Frenzy (various) $6.6m $78.4m $6.6m $78.4m 3 10. Hovering Blade (various) $5.6m $5.7m $5.6m $5.7m 2

Credit: Comscore.

Worldwide box office May 17-19 RankFilm (distributor)3-day (world)Cume (world)3-day (int’l)Cume (int’l)Territories 1. Kingdom Of The Planet Of The Apes (Disney) $66.6m $237.5m $40.6m $136.3m 53 2. If (Paramount) $55m $59m $20m $24m 59 3. The Fall Guy (Universal) $15.6m $127.6m $7.2m $64.6m 82 4. The Strangers: Chapter 1 (Lionsgate) $13.7m $13.7m $1.7m $1.7m 14 5. The Garfield Movie (Sony) $10.3m $49m $10.3m $49m 27 6. Twilight Of The Warriors: Walled In (various) $8m $77m $8m $77m 5 7. Tarot (Sony) $7m $29.9m $5m $14.5m 53 8. Un P’tit Truc En Plus (Pandis) $6.8m $25.9m $6.8m $25.9m 1 9. The Last Frenzy (various) $6.6m $78.4m $6.6m $78.4m 3 10. Hovering Blade (various) $5.6m $5.7m $5.6m $5.7m 2

Credit: Comscore.

The following contains spoilers for Knuckles, premiering April 26 on Paramount+.

The video game adaptation is having a moment in the first quarter of the 21st century. Years before, no film or series originating from a video game property seemed to translate well into the new medium. The first Sonic the Hedgehog movie was one of the early projects to buck this trend, turning into a surprise hit. The Paramount+ original series Knuckles continues that trend, but does it live up to other TV series born from video games?

The Last of Us on HBO and Fallout on Prime Video raised the bar significantly. Both series took bleak but captivating video game premises and evolved them into equally captivating dramas for adult viewers. The game universe that spawned this story is about a blue hedgehog from outer space who runs fast and collects rings. Knuckles is to those series as Sesame Street...

Paramount's Sonic the Hedgehog franchise is expanding into television with the spinoff series, Knuckles, which will lead into the third CG live-action movie. Knuckles actor Idris Elba recently opened up about his role in the franchise, revealing that the threequel will probably appeal the most to longtime Sonic fans since they'll be able to spot all the Easter eggs.

In an interview with Collider to promote Knuckles, Elba initially stated that he could "tease nothing" about Sonic the Hedgehog 3, joking that he didn't "even know what's gonna happen in it." The actor then shared that the hotly-anticipated follow-up to Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is "super exciting" and "really does get deeper into the universe of Sonic. I think 3’s probably the one for all the real diehard Sonic fans. They're gonna get all of those Easter eggs in it."

Related Unreleased Video Game Eyed for Film Adaptation...

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 may repeat the formula of the second movie, risking a repetitive storyline. Introducing Shadow as a new antagonist can add complexity and emotional depth to the franchise. To avoid becoming stale, Sonic movies need to explore compelling new stories and emotional narratives.

New footage of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has provided mild concerns about the film's narrative surrounding its new antagonist, Shadow. The 2020 Sonic the Hedgehog movie was an excellent family adventure movie, bringing the speedy blue hedgehog to the big screen in a way that was faithful to the energy of the beloved game franchise. Sonic 2 took things up a notch, introducing supporting Sonic characters like Knuckles and Tails. In December 2024, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will be released with new characters and an exciting premise that will adapt a fan-favorite storyline.

CinemaCon 2024 saw announcements and new footage for several upcoming film projects, building anticipation...

Director Joe Wright and writers Jez and John-Henry Butterworth have all boarded the upcoming Paramount+ series “The Department.”

The Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios series, which was announced with a straight-to-series order in February 2023, is based on the French drama series “Le Bureau des Legendes” created by Eric Rochant. Wright will direct the first two episodes and executive produce, while the Butterworths will writer and executive produce all episodes. George Clooney was originally announced as directing the series. He and Grant Heslov remain onboard as executive producers via Smokehouse Pictures.

“Joe Wright is a visionary director with a gift of focusing on intricate details to craft immersive and visually striking stories,” said Chris McCarthy, President and CEO of Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. “And, Jez and John-Henry are masterful writers whose witty and emotionally charged language dives deep into their characters’ moral complexities, while simultaneously creating a propulsive narrative. Bringing these powerhouse...

Knuckles, Sonic the Hedgehog's frenemy, is getting his own spinoff series on Paramount+. It will take place in the same universe as the Sonic movies and will feature Knuckles as the main character. The story of the series will focus on Knuckles teaching Tom Wachowski's colleague, Wade Whipple, how to become an echidna warrior. The show will have a comedic twist and is expected to be a self-contained miniseries. The series will also feature the return of characters like Maddie and will introduce several elements that may tie into Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Knuckles, Sonic the Hedgehog's frenemy, is set to launch his own spinoff series on Paramount+. Following the success of the blue blur’s two movies and the upcoming third entry, audiences can now expect more content on the way. This sets a new era for the Sonic franchise, with its latest video game, Sonic Frontiers,...

The upcoming Paramount+ Knuckles TV show will focus on the echidna's power and fighting skills as he teaches Deputy Wade and defends Green Hill Zone. The TV miniseries will have connections to Sonic the Hedgehog 3 through Easter eggs and references, and its success could lead to spin-off shows for other supporting characters. Knuckles' fire powers, which he has in the Sonic video games, will make him an even greater threat to enemies like Dr. Robotnik in Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

The upcoming Paramount+ Knuckles TV show looks to be making the titular echidna even more powerful before his appearance in the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Known for his attitude and fighting prowess, Knuckles is one of Sonic's most reliable allies, as he's demonstrated time and again an aptitude for being able to hold his own in virtually any combat-related situation. Knuckles is set for an April 26, 2024 release,...

French mini-major Pathé has acquired Les Films des Tournelles, the production company founded by Anne-Dominique Toussaint whose recent credits include Louis Garrel’s Cesar-winning “The Innocent.”

Besides Garrel, Les Films des Tournelles has worked with a flurry of auteurs on some of their most successful films, including Riad Sattouf’s “The French Kissers,” which won the Cesar for best first film in 2010; Nadine Labaki’s “Caramel”; Emanuele Crialese’s “Respiro”; Valeria Golino’s “Miele”; and Mona Achache’s “The Hedgehog.” “The Innocent” won two prizes at last year’s Cesar Awards and screened at Cannes on the 75th anniversary of the festival.

Toussaint has also worked with Philippe Le Guay and Emmanuel Carrère. Toussaint, whose career spans over three decades, has produced 27 films so far, including iconic French movies such as Martine Dugowson’s “Mina Tannenbaum.”

As part of the deal, Pathé is acquiring Films des Tournelles’ full library while...

After years of stunning fans on Netflix, Sonic Prime provided a shocking ending in Season 3 of the hit animated series. 

Prime offered fans a new take on the world of Sega's Blue Blur, telling a wholly original (and shocking mature) story about Sonic The Hedgehog and his friends. 

This critically acclaimed interpretation of the Sonic lore saw enemies become friends, and friends become enemies, in a narrative that ended with a confrontation of universe-altering consequences. 

Read full article on The Direct.

The Wreck-It Ralph franchise cleverly incorporates iconic video game characters, introducing them to a new generation while appealing to older audiences with nostalgia. Zangief from Street Fighter finds his place in the family-friendly Wreck-It Ralph franchise despite being aimed at mature audiences, showcasing the series' creative worldbuilding. The directors of Ralph Breaks the Internet humorously portrayed Zangief as a villain due to personal childhood experiences, highlighting how creators' personal narratives can shape character adaptations.

The Wreck-It Ralph franchise has become a beloved part of contemporary animated cinema, largely due to its clever incorporation of iconic video game characters and references, such as Zangief's villainous role in Ralph Breaks the Internet. It's a playful homage to the gaming world, featuring cameos from various gaming legends like Sonic the Hedgehog, Pac-Man, and Mario characters. These inclusions not only add a layer of nostalgia for older audiences but also serve to introduce these...

The success of the How to Train Your Dragon live-action movie hinges on the realistic yet cute design of the dragons, similar to how the Sonic the Hedgehog film faced backlash for its initial design. The fact that the Sonic the Hedgehog filmmakers were able to respond to feedback and redesign the character successfully gives hope that future live-action adaptations of animated films can do the same. The How to Train Your Dragon live-action movie is crucial for DreamWorks, as it is their first live-action adaptation of a successful animated film and will determine if they continue to pursue live-action remakes of their other movies.

The How to Train Your Dragon live-action movie risks repeating the Sonic the Hedgehog design curse. The original computer-animated DreamWorks film is about Hiccup Haddock, a young Viking who befriends the Night Fury dragon Toothless. The first How to Train Your Dragon film, inspired by...

Following on their collaboration on Charlotte Wells’ “Aftersun,” Charades has boarded international sales on upcoming Mubi-backed production “Bring Them Down.”

Starring Barry Keoghan, Academy Award nominated for “The Banshees of Inisherin,” and Christopher Abbott (“Sanctuary”), a Golden Globe nominee for “Catch 22,” “Bring Them Down” marks the first feature from writer-director Chris Andrews, behind award-winning short films “Fire” (2015) and “Stalker” (2019).

On “Aftersun,” Charades took on international sales duties, with Mubi boarding to take distribution rights to multiple territories – such as U.K.-Ireland, France, Germany, Italy and Spain – just as the films bowed in 2022 Cannes Critics’ Week.

For “Bring Them Down,” Charades will sell international rights outside North America, U.K., Ireland, Latin America and Italy where Mubi retains all rights.

Colm Meaney (“Gangs of London”), Nora-Jane Noone (“Wildfire”), Paul Ready (“Motherland”), and Susan Lynch (Happy Valley”) also star.

“Bring Them Down” turns on Michael (Abbott), the last son of a shepherding family,...

Paris-based sales company will also bring Directors’ Fortnight opener The Goldman Case to the market.

Paris-based Charades has boarded a slew of starry Cannes titles including Mona Achache’s just-announced Special Screening film Little Girl Blue starring Marion Cotillard and Directors’ Fortnight opener The Goldman Case.

The company is also selling Kamal Lazraq’s Hounds premiering in Un Certain Regard, Katell Quillévéré’s Along Came Love set for a Cannes Premiere screening and Chicken For Linda! selected for parallel section Acid, plus will unveil first images from new acquisition Sébastien Vanicek’s Vermin.

Little Girl Blue is inspired by the life of Achache’s mother.

Many of the humans, sorcerers, elves, and monsters that Geralt of Rivia met in Netflix's The Witcher were inspired by classic fairy tales—but each have been given their own twist. The same was true for the popular series of video games, as well as the original The Witcher book series written by author Andrzej Sapkowski. The novels always found a way to subtly include familiar tales from storytellers like Hans Christian Anderson and the Brothers Grimm, and Netflix has continued the trend.

Though the stories that surround Geralt, Yennifer, and Ciri differ significantly from the source material, the fairy tale theme is still apparent. Season 1 especially was packed full of these subtle details that brought audiences a sense of familiarity—since many grew up hearing these tales. Of course, each story often had a dark twist ending, so The Witcher created an intriguing dissonance. Season 2 might have slowed down on these moments,...

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Sega has officially revealed the full game lineup for the Sega Genesis Mini 2 (or Mega Drive Mini 2) retro console. While most of the pre-installed games that will be included with the retro console when it launches on October 27 shouldn’t come as a surprise, it is a bit surprising to see that the console will include Sega’s most notorious and controversial game ever.

I’ll include the full list of games featured in the Mini 2 at the bottom of this article for your perusing pleasure. For now, though, it’s enough to know that the retro hardware’s pre-installed lineup is…eclectic. While the console will include the usual number of all-time classics, it also includes quite a few games you’ve probably never heard of. Actually, two of the games in the console’s lineup (Devi & Pii and Star Mobile) were never actually released before now.

Yet, if...