Sonic is back to speedily save the day

Everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog is back in theaters, and this time he’s got some new friends. Fans will love Sonic the Hedgehog 2 with its fun characters and frenetic video-game action.

Sonic (Ben Schwartz) is coming to terms with his new life in small-town America. He wants to be a hero, but his guardian Tom (James Marsden) cautions him to be patient. He tells Sonic being a hero means taking care of others, and Sonic will know when it’s time to act. While Tom’s on vacation, Sonic realizes it’s time to act. Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) returns to get his revenge, and he’s accompanied by a surly brawling echidna named Knuckles (Idris Elba). Sonic gets an assist from a two-tailed fox appropriately named Tails (Colleen O’Shaughnessey).

What the film lacks in coherence, it makes up for in humor and speedy action sequences. Carrey is even more outrageous than in the original, and Elba puts in some scene-stealing voice work.

The movie is rated PG for action and some rude humor—God’s name is uttered outside of prayer a couple of times. But for the most part, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is a fast-paced kid-friendly movie with a wholesome message about the importance of family. Sonic learns that love and compassion can transform difficult relationships.