Summary
Ahead ofSonic the Hedgehog 3’s upcoming release date, the movie’s director, Jeff Fowler, has shared what he thinks of Shadow the Hedgehog actor Keanu Reeves' portrayal of the spikey anthropomorphic character in theSonic the Hedgehogfranchise. After numerous rumors, it was finally confirmed early this year that the iconicSpeedstar, Keanu Reeves, would be jumping into the shoes of Sonic’s edgy rival, Shadow the Hedgehog, in the much anticipated movie. Joining Reeves in an incredible cast line-up, which includes the likes of Ben Schwartz and Idris Elba as Sonic and Knuckles, as well as Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails. The story was written by Pat Casey and Josh Miller, who also penned the screenplay alongside John Whittington.
The longtime voice actor for Sonic, Jason Griffith, recently revealed thatReeves' casting inSonic 3was a great choiceand held no ill will for not being asked to reprise the role of Shadow himself. Many fans of the franchise are excited to see how dark the film’s creators will portray Shadows and, given that theSonic the Hedgehog 3trailers have taken some guidance fromSonic Adventure 2, fans could even see other major characters like Amy Rose, the hotheaded hedgehog whose crush on Sonic has always been a fun feature, come into play too.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Director Thinks Fans Will Love Keanu Reeves’ Shadows
During aQ&A streamon Sonic Revolution’s YouTube channel,Sonic the Hedgehog 3directorJeff Fowler praised Keanu Reeves' commitment and dedication to voicing Shadows. Fowler went onto say that Reeves wanted to do his own version of the character, as well as creating a “fan faithful” retelling. The director not only applauded Reeves' obvious research into the role and hardwork, but also made a point of how much fans will really enjoy his interpretation of Shadows. Fowler said that Reeves would show up at line readings with enthusiasm, and he felt that the actor never came across like it was just another job.
“He really wanted to create a very fan faithful version of the character. He did research. In our first meeting, he very clearly had gone and done his homework, which was awesome. I can’t say enough wonderful things about Keanu and what he brought to the character and the experience of making this movie. I think people are going to really, really love his version of Shadow.”
Reeves is most popularly known for his iconic role in theJohn Wickfranchise, in which he played an assassin in mourning, but before that,Reeves' career spanned over four decades on the big screen, with his breakthrough role being in the science-fiction comedyBill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, as well as notable characters like John Constantine inConstantine, Jack Traven inSpeed, and his role as Neo inThe Matrix. Of course,Sonic the Hedgehog 3isn’t the first time Reeves has starred in a video game, in one way or another. Reeves appeared as Johnny Silverhand, a key figure in the rockerboy movement inCyberpunk 2077,reprising the same role again for the game’sPhantom Libertyexpansion.
Reeves is also starring in Amazon Prime’s animated anthology show,Secret Level, which was announced at the 2024 Gamescom Opening Night Live ceremony and will feature 15 episodes, each one focusing on a different game adaptation. As forSonic the Hedgehog 3, fans won’t have long to wait as the movie will race into cinemas on December 20.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024)
Cast
Directed by Jeff Fowler, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 sets up a new threat for Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails by introducing Shadow the Hedgehog. Shadow presents such a big danger to planet Earth, that the heroes have to team up with Dr. Robotnik.
