Paramount and SEGA had a plan to release a new Sonic movie every two years. And so far they have stuck to that plan and are racing to do so again. With Sonic the Hedgehog 3 set to open this weekend and run circles around Mufasa: The Lion King, Paramount has already set in motion a sequel.
Variety reports that Sonic the Hedgehog 4 is in the works and is expected to hit theaters in 2027. Details on the plot are unknown, naturally, but those who take in Sonic 3 this weekend will have an idea of where the story is going.
Analysts are projecting a $60M+ opening weekend for Sonic 3, with even more internationally. Critics have already given the film a thumbs up, as it currently holds an 87% on Rotten Tomatoes. You can read my review here.
It’s easy to see why Paramount is so eager to keep Sonic going as quickly as possible. The two films have combined for $725M at the global box office and driven hundreds of millions of dollars in other consumer sales. The franchise will likely crack the $1B mark with this third movie.
Jeff Fowler has directed all three movies and is likely to return as he’s been talking about a sequel. A big question mark hangs over the return of Jim Carrey, who has been great as comedy villain Dr. Robotnik. Carrey is an infrequent actor but has played an integral creative role in these movies. They wouldn’t be the same without him.
