Following the famous internet backlash upon the initial trailer for the first Sonic the Hedgehog, it’s astounding that the Sonic film franchise was able to find its footing. The original film served as a strong introduction into the world of a young Sonic, and it should definitely be considered a success, mainly due to the painstaking reanimating of Sonic, alongside dazzling visuals and Jim Carey’s iconic performance as Dr. Robotnic.

In Hollywood, wherever there is success, a sequel is never close behind, and a second film recently released that builds upon the plot lines teased at the end of the first movie. Those plot lines being Dr. Robotnic swearing to get revenge on Sonic and the appearance of Tails, who is on a mission to help Sonic. 

sThe second film takes place fairly shortly after the first. Sonic is still young and figuring out what his purpose is, but when Sonic is forced to fight Dr. Robotnic and his new ally, Knuckles the Echidna, with the help of Tails, he realizes his mission is to protect the people he cares about.

I consider myself familiar with the Sonic universe. I know the main characters and storylines, but I’m certainly no expert. That being said, several moments in this movie, particularly towards the end, had me on the edge of my seat with excitement. All I can say is that fans of the franchise will find extraordinary hype within this movie, and it sets up a sequel that I know many fans have been waiting for.

It is too often that a sequel doesn’t live up to the first, but in this case, I can say that Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is the best so far, and I hope they can keep this momentum going into the 3rd.