Sonic The Hedgehog Races into Cinemas & Your Hearts this Valentines Day

Written by Hayashiforest.

Back in the nineties... 

I was seven years old and shopping with my parents, when I found myself drawn to a television screen in a toy shop, like a moth to light. I was hypnotized by a speedy blue ball that jumps, dodges and whizzes around the screen with incredible speed. I barely blinked when the screen suddenly faded black and the words, SEGA emblazoned across the screen. An emblem titled, SONIC appeared together with a catchy jingle and a blue character popped up. It turned to look at me with a smirk and cheekily beckoned me to press Start. I was sold. I must get a Megadrive NOW! Daaaad!!! (For the record, my parents did not get me a Megadrive until I was older 3 years later.)

It was fate.

Like many fans who grew up with Sonic, he is more than just a childhood hero but a historical turning point that transitioned me from regular kid to geek. When fans learned that Sonic will be getting his own movie, reactions were mixed, to say the least. Video games that turned into movies never had a good rep in the box office. So stakes are definitely riding high especially when its Sonic that we are talking about. 

My humble Sonic collection

When the first Sonic the Hedgehog teaser trailer was released in 2019, things looked pretty rocky, if not already confirming the worst nightmares of the most ardent Sonic fans. However, more about that in a minute. The movie is now 100% complete and showing in cinemas this week.

If you are not already Sonic fan, here is a guide on the little blue hedgehog, before you speed off to the nearest cinemas. 

 Sonic the Hedgehog

Who is Sonic?

Sonic the Hedgehog is a video game franchise, pop culture icon and the official mascot of Sega Games Co Limited. He is the brainchild of three Japanese men who formed the Sonic Team in 1991. They are Yuji Naka the team leader and programmer, Naoto Ohshima the character designer and Hirokazu Yasuhara, the game level designer.

(L - R above) Yuji Naka, Hirokazu Yasuhara, Naoto Oshima and Takashii Iizuka.

(Below) The first Sonic the Hedgehog game released in 1991 for the Sega Genesis and Megadrive. The game successfully sold 15 million copies. 

Sonic was created for the sole purpose of competing with Nintendo's juggernaut, Super Mario. He made his debut in American shores as a cool character with spunk, attitude and speed. There was simply no comparison that Sonic was the cool kid that every young and impressionable gamer wanted to hang out with.  So, combining the brilliant design and Sega's aggressive marketing Sonic won the hearts of American gamers and set to established SEGA as a household brand. Sonic's career now boasts of more than sixty different games across platforms and is featured in comic books, cartoons, anime series, apparel, shoes, toys and food. 

Sonic the Hedgehog comics published by Archie Comics since 1992,
became the longest-running comic series based on a video game.
(2008, Guinness World Records)

Sonic had at least one animated movie released in 1996 as a two-episode OVA anime.
It was produced Studio Pierrot and directed by Kazutaka Ikegami.

Sonic first appeared in Macy's Thanksgiving Parade in 1993.
He is the first video game character to have a balloon in the parade,
trailblazing for other game characters in the future.

The Plot

The main story of Sonic the Hedgehog revolves around Sonic fighting against the mad evil scientist Dr. Ivo Robotnik who threatens to dominate the world using his robotic inventions.  In the Sonic games, Sonic will race through the levels in pursuit of Dr. Robotnik while avoiding obstacles or minion enemies (known as badniks) that lie in his way to stop him. The game culminates at the final boss level with Dr. Robotnik suited up in one of his mega deadly inventions, only to be defeated by the hedgehog, should the player win the game. 

There are many iterations to the story but anchors on Sonic who uses his incredible speed to fight for freedom against Dr. Robotnik. In some versions, the fight is seen as a metaphor of nature defending itself against the threat of industrialization.  

Sonic versus Dr. Ivo Robotnik (otherwise known as Dr. Eggman in Japan) 

Now that you know our hedgehog a little better, it's movie time! Here is everything about the movie that you need to know:

Quick Movie Facts

Sonic Movie Release Date (Malaysia): 13 February 2020

Directed by: Jeff Fowler

Cast: Ben Schwartz, Jim Carrey, James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Adam Pally, Neal McDonough

Writers: Patrick Casey, Josh Miller, Oren Uziel

And there were speedbumps...

When the very first Sonic movie trailer was first released on May the 1st last year, it caused a major ruckus for Sonic fans. He looks nothing like the Sonic we grew up with and was disturbing with the realistic rendition that includes a set of creepy human teeth. It was just a sad, sad day for the fans.

Left - Sonic from the first trailer.
Right - The improved design. 

Although now the past is behind us, you can still watch the old trailer below and judge it for yourself.

Thankfully, the rallying distressed cries were taken seriously by movie director Jeff Fowler who responded in a Tweet stating that they are fully committed to making the changes necessary to make Sonic look his best.

The result is a new trailer featuring a better looking Sonic that is more cartoonish and closer to the the "modern Sonic" design that fans are familiar with. Jeff delivered what he promised by engaging Sonic's redesigning efforts to Tyson Hesse, who was the artist behind the Archie Comics Sonic and introduction opening scene of the recent 2017 Sonic Mania game.

Check out Tyson Hesse's craft below:

The decision for Sonic's redesign took many by surprise and is well received given that the movie industry is dominated by conglomerate overlords who will simply overrule any form of fan community feedback.  The results truly speak for itself with the new trailer below.

Ben Schwartz as Sonic the Hedgehog

Playing the voice of our hero hedgehog is Ben Schwarzt who has done voice acting roles before including a voice consultant on Star Wars: The Force Awaken for BB-8. Better yet, Ben's a child of the 80s so he'd grew up playing the classic Sonic games citing Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as his favourite.

Jim Carrey as the mad, evil scientist Dr Ivo Robotnik

Jim Carrey will be playing Sonic's arch-enemy and villain Dr. Ivo Robotnik. A legendary comedic star of the nineties known for his major role as Stanley Ipkiss in The Mask (1994).  Expect Carrey's classic gags and stunts making us wonder what sort of Dr. Robotnik he will pull. Watch this featurette on him becoming Robotnik.

James Marsden as Tom Wachowski.

James Marsden (Cyclops from the original X-Men trilogy!) is Tom Wachowski, the town's sheriff who will also play a major role in the movie alongside our hedgehog friend. Other side casts include  Tika Sumpter, playing Wachowski's wife, Annie. Tom's friend Billy is played by Adam Pally and Neal McDonough (Arrow's Damien Darhk) is Major Bennington.

Official Synopsis

Based on the global blockbuster videogame franchise from SEGA, Sonic the hedgehog tells the story of the world's speediest hedgehog as he embraces his new home on Earth. In this live-action adventure comedy, Sonic and his new friend Tom (James Marsden) team up to defend the planet from the evil genius Dr Robotnik (Jim Carrey) and his plans for world domination.

The music of Sonic

Addictive and catchy music is the heart of all Sonic games. On YouTube, there are literally hundreds of remixes made by fans for every possible Sonic game out there. Paramount's Sonic the Hedgehog movie has made a tribute to that with an official Sonic tie-in song called Speed Me Up, by Wiz Khalifa, Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Yachty and Sueco the Child. 

Sonic the Hedgehog Promotional Goodies

There are some of Sonic movie goodies and freebies for grabs from our local cinemas. The movie officially screens from 13 February but there are still competitions open for those who don't want to feel left out.

TGV Cinemas - Family Friendly Special Screening.
For the Family.

TGV Cinemas has put together a special Family Friendly Special Screening with Sonic, complete with fun activities and goodie bags for the little ones. MovieClub Members are entitled to RM5 off for tickets!  So mark your calendars  this weekend 15& 16 February 2020 and bring your little ones along. Get more information and tickets to TGV's special Family Friendly Screening here. TGV MovieClub members also stand a chance to win official Sonic the Hedgehog movie merchandise through their Facebook Page contest (ending 20 February).

Exclusive Sonic the Hedgehog Movie Merchandises up for grabs!

UIP Malaysia & LFS Cinemas are offering some exclusive Sonic the Hedgehog movie merchandise that only a fan can drool at. Competition goes on until the 19 February. So try your luck by checking out the LFS Facebook page.

Sonic Merchandises Galore
If you want a piece of Sonic to bring home with you, drop by H&M for some cool Sonic designed shirts!

Cool and trendy designs!

H&M has some of the best designs I've ever seen especially the black Sonic shirt with the pixel sprite Sonic running on the sleeves. While the male side has more variety, ladies need not be disappointed. For the girls, there's a white hoodie featuring the original pairing, Sonic and Tails, and bonus! There's Amy Rose the Hedgehog! Classic Sonic fans will recognise this design of Amy from the Sonic CD game where she made her debut in 1993.

A Sonic CD classic!

Win a H&M Gift Card worth 500 and MORE Sonic merchandises

If that's not enough to whet your appetites, H&M also has a contest for the hardcore fans. Just purchase any Sonic item from the store, scan the QR code, and tell them why you want to win. It's that easy! Find out how at H&M here Facebook page.

Non-Spoiler Movie Review

I attended the Movie Premiere at TGV 1 Utama all dressed up like a Sonic Super Fan (wig, ears, gloves, the works) and was genuinely excited.  I chucked all my Sonic baggage out of the door and was anticipating a good ride. Fair to say that I was pleasantly entertained and had my moments of fan glee whenever a cleverly inserted Sonic easter egg pop up in the movie. It's a feel-good movie where both non-fans and fans alike can enjoy. 

Well for fans, it really depends on how anal you are as a Sonic fan. But for me, taking the movie as it is, I find it unexpectedly delightful and charming. I particularly enjoyed the new Sonic design and his mix of attitude and screen personality truly shine. I am somewhat uncertain with Dr. Ivo Robotnik and Jim Carrey's interpretation of the evil scientist. In classic Jim Carrey style, he's put an original twist on the villain in ways I could not possibly imagine as a Sonic fan which is not necessarily a bad thing. James Marsden as Tom the sheriff is likeable throughout and the chemistry between him and the hedgehog adorable.

I will recommend anyone to watch Sonic if you are in for something lighthearted, heartwarming and not too heavy in plot or action. It is a character-driven movie that focuses on establishing Sonic as a solid and relatable character that is not all about attitude but heart as well. The writers definitely know their direction with the hedgehog and his potential to push boundaries beyond the point of no return.

A quick reminder, to stay during the movie credits!

Check out other reviews by The Verge, and IGN. Sonic The Hedgehog is now showing in Malaysian cinemas nationwide.

Sonic's gonna keep on running!
Art by: Rei Hayashi

Disclaimer: Sonic the Hedgehog and associated trademarks are copyright to Sega, referenced here for fan service purposes only without intent to infringe.

Robin Hood retold reboot reimagined

England's legendary outlaw Robin Hood returns to cinemas this week in yet another reincarnation of the heroic thief famous for stealings from the rich to give to the poor. Indeed the modern generation consuming entertainment media would most certainly have come across Robin Hood in cinema or television as one of the most popularly adapted medieval folklore that's royalty free. For the Gen-X, 1991's Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves led by Kevin Costner may be their benchmark to compare subsequent iterations against, despite being overly Americanised, e.g. Costner's Robin barely sounded English! Fast forward almost two decades to 2010, the Millennials may identify closer to Director Ridley Scott's big budget Robin Hood with Australian Russell Crowe in the leading role supported by an all-star cast.

Taron Egerton is Robin of Loxley, born into privilege but loses everything whilst away in at war in the Crusades.

This year's rebirth of Robin Hood brings a younger face to our hero starring rising action hero Taron Egerton, who is actually from England! Famous for his role as Eggsy in the two Kingsman movies, Egerton just recently turned 29 and would certainly find appeal amongst younger movie goers for his boyish smile and chiseled body.

OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS 

Robin of Loxley (Taron Egerton) a war-hardened Crusader and his Moorish commander (Jamie Foxx) mount an audacious revolt against the corrupt English crown in a thrilling action-adventure packed with gritty battlefield exploits, mind-blowing fight choreography, and a timeless romance. 

"The Legend You Know. The Story You Don't."

Putting up Robin to thieving is an Arabian Moor known as John (in English) played by Award winning actor Jamie Foxx (Baby Driver, Amazing Spider-man 2, Django Unchained). Eve Hewson stars as Robin's love interest Marian whilst Jamie Dornan of Fifty Shades of Grey fame steps up as Will Scarlet. Another members of folklore is Friar Tuck played by Tim Minchin, providing godly counsel were heeded and then some. Of course taxing the good people of Nottingham is none other than the Sheriff embodied by Ben Mendelsohn (Star Wars Rogue One, Ready Player One).

The not-so-little John (Jamie Fox) is a hardened warrior fighting from the opposite side of the Crusades.

Marian, far from damsel in distress.

Will Scarlet is a rising community leader of the Mines.

This friar eparts from the classic rotund bald Tuck 

The ruthless Sheriff of Nottingham is all out for wealth & power.

Director Otto Bathurst wanted to start anew, and remake the mold with all the furious pace and contemporary action filmmaking. His “make it modern” mantra thoroughly upped the ante when it came to the film’s action. Old school static bow-and-arrow combat morphed into wildly, athletic clashes that bring a new energy and pop.

Armed only with bow and arrow, Robin becomes Nottingham's most wanted outlaw known as the Hood.

To prepare for the movie, Egerton trained to this generation's legendary modern-day archer, Lars Andersen. Hailing from Denmark, Andersen holds the world record for speed archery, firing 10 arrows in 4.9 seconds. Check out what he can do in this video and learn a bit more about historical archery:

Here are snippets of Egerton's training with Andersen translating to real archery stunts seen in the movie:

Andersen was especially gratified by how Egerton devoted himself to becoming as speedy and accurate an archer as he possibly could. So for you highly motivated readers who like to try your hand at this sport, check out Eureka Archery locally based in Klang Valley.

For the ladies who can't get enough of Christian Grey, take some liberties to swoon over this medieval version of him.

For reviews on this new Taron Egerton Robin Hood, refer to articles by Variety and Forbes.

The Malaysian Premiere for Robin Hood was held earlier this week at TGV 1 Utama. Special guests included hunky dudes for the search of Malaysia's version of Robin Hood (please steal from Jho Low and gift back to us ya?) as well as the Hood himself.

Candidates for Malaysia's Robin Hood.

Look-a-like or not?

Look out for these two characters transported from Nottingham to visit the following TGV Cinemas this weekend:

Also be rewarded for watching Robin Hood at TGV Cinemas by receiving a free poster for two tickets purchased as well as stand a chance to win movie premiums and TGIF dining vouchers via their Facebook contest (ends 23 October):

Similar movie premiums are also available vis GSC Cinemas Facebook contest (ends Sunday 25 November):

Over at MBO they are offering a Robin Hood member card for their Allstar club (it's Free):

Robin Hood is now showing in cinemas nationwide. Enjoy the ride!

Venom Unleashes Marvel Universe of Symbiotes

This week spawns another Marvel comic-book movie in the form of Venom from Sony Pictures, the same film studio that brought us the Spider-man franchise (as portrayed by Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland). However, the film universe that Venom exists is removed from the one presently occupied by the latest Spider-man incarnation, which shares the Marvel Cinematic Universe (M.C.U.) as seen by Holland's Peter Parker in Captain America: Civil War (2016), Spider-man Homecoming (2017) and Avengers Infinity War (2018). As Sony holds the rights to approximately 900 Marvel characters, the film studio has since announced that Venom will begin Sony's Universe of Marvel Characters (SUMC, an internal label of convenience).

Venom's comic book origins date back three decades to 1998 as a major super-villain of the Spider-man saga. Created by David Michelinie and legendary artist Todd McFarlane, Venom first appeared in the pages of The Amazing Spider-man issue #300 with his first comic book cover in issue #316. Prior to this, Peter Parker donned a black version of his costume which was later revealed to be a living sentient alien.

Before delving further, it may benefit non-Marvel fans to explain what is a Symbiote to set the proper context. By the English dictionary, a symbiont is defined as:

An organism in a symbiotic relationship. In cases in which a distinction is made between two interacting organisms, the symbiont is the smaller of the two and is always a beneficiary in the relationship, while the larger organism is the host and may or may not derive a benefit. 

In terms of biology, the symbiotic relationship, or symbiosis, involves two dissimilar organisms living together. In the fictional world of Marvel, a Symbiote (intentionally with an "e') refers to the aliens that bond with (human) hosts in a such a symbiotic relationship to grant extraordinary abilities as a symbiont entity. Geddit?

Anyway, Parker rejected permanently bonding with the Symbiote and forcibly repelled it. This unwittingly lead to the Symbiote bonding to disgruntled reporter Eddie Brock who nursed a strong hatred of Spider-man. Hence began lengthy clashes between the two foes over the years, including a number of team-ups against greater threats.

Venom's first appearance in live-action actually took place in 2007's Spider-man 3 where the Symbiote adopted a similar origin as the comics. Eddie Brock played by Topher Grace is bonded to the Symbiote immediately after Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) expels it from his body using the sonic frequency of a church bell to weaken the alien lifeform; see the scene above. Unfortunately this only happens far into the movie so audiences and especially Marvel fans were not treated to much character development of Venom, which was further diluted with shared screen time with other major villains of the Sandman and new "Green Goblin".

For more intimate facts about Venom, check out this article by Says.com.

Tom Hardy as Eddie Brock / Venom in the upcoming 2018 movie.

This week a new incarnation of Venom will be unleashed as portrayed by British actor Tom Hardy, known for this role as Batman's nemesis Bane in The Dark Knight Rises (2012), Max the lead star of Mad Max: Fury Road (2015) and Shinzon in Star Trek Nemesis (2002).

Movie Synopsis:

Journalist Eddie Brock is trying to take down Carlton Drake, the notorious and brilliant founder of the Life Foundation. While investigating one of Drake's experiments, Eddie's body merges with the alien Venom -- leaving him with superhuman strength and power. Twisted, dark and fueled by rage, Venom tries to control the new and dangerous abilities that Eddie finds so intoxicating.

This new Eddie Brock / Venom will not a be sequel from the aforementioned Spider-man 3 or the two subsequent Amazing Spider-man reboots, therefore wiping the previous slate clean. Hardy has been reported to have signed on for 3 Venom movies, hinting that the Symbiote saga may be here to stay, obviously depending on the box office of this inaugural outing. And fans seem to be reacting well to Hardy's casting of this much beloved Anti-Hero compared to his predecessor Topher Grace, who himself admits not know why he was cast.

This new Venom with articulated tongue and nasty fangs looks seriously ready to eat some heads, although with a PG-13 rating we are unlikely to see serious bloody gorging.

The events of Venom take place in the city of San Francisco, which Marvel fans may be more familiar as also the home grounds of Ant-man (and The Wasp). As can be seen from the trailer Venom's origin story will be much changed from the comic books and previous outing as there seems to be no Spider-man in this universe to inherit the Symbiote. Instead the Symbiotes seem linked to  the Life Foundation headed by Carlton Drake (Riz Ahmed, Star Wars Rogue One), a genius technologist paving his own vision for the future of humanity. His research includes reaching out to the stars, literally going where no man has gone before, and bringing back new discoveries no matter the cost. The latter of course brings Drake into conflict with Eddie Brock as an investigative journalist.

Behind-the-scenes from the set of Venom with Tom Hardy.

Softening the male cast and Symbiotes is Michelle Williams (The Greatest Showman, Oz The Great & Powerful) as Anne Weying, Brock's romantic interest. Hardcare Spidey fans may also recognise this name from comic books as the human alter-ego of She-Venom. Other supporting characters do not stand out as star billing, but do look out for Woody Harrelson and a gratuitous cameo by the master, Stan Lee. Followers of Marvel's Luke Cage on Netflix may also recognise the familiar face of Ron Cephas Jones who played Bobby Fish, Luke's friend and often times conscience, although in a different role in this movie (it's oklah since SUMC is separate from MCU).

Don't annoy Venom or he will literally bite your head off.

As what has become staple for Marvel movies, expect 2 post-credit scenes to wet your geekiness. Plus minor SPOILER... Malaysia lands a surprise mark in the SUMC.

Venom opens in cinemas nationwide 4 October 2018.

Locally our top cinemas looks hyped for Venom and are offering a slew of promotions. Starting first with TGV Cinemas, they will be hosting Special Screenings of Venom for fans in IMAX on Saturday 6 October 2018 at multiple cinema locations in Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru and Kuching. A specially priced movie ticket of RM40 per pax includes IMAX 2D screening, a Venom t-shirt & poster, preceded by dinner with fan activities. At time of this writing there is limited availability for purchase direct from TGV's website.

Screenings take place at Sunway Pyramid, Sunway Velocity, 1 Utama, Tebrau City Johor Bahru, Gurney Paragon Penang, and Vivacity Megamall Kuching.

Check out this micro-site for other Venom promotions by TGV. There is also a public Facebook contest offering the chance to win movie premiums; closing 4 October.

Over at GSC Cinemas, a whole load of gift with purchase items are being offered for customers as follows:

Redemption starts 4 October onwards while stocks last. Check GSC's website for availability by location.

Furthermore, GSC also has Play & Win Roadshows for Venom at multiple locations where presumably patrons are tasked to "play" assorted games for the chance to win Venom movie merchandise. See the roadshow schedule below:

Meanwhile MBO Cinemas is offering a Venom edition card for their AllStar members as well as a Watch & Win Contest putting up a Sony Dolby Atmos sound bar up for grabs plus Venom movie premiums.

For further details head to their micro-site.

Venom is rated P13, so do not expect to see gory entrails on screen... the producers will leave that to overactive imaginations. Head over to cinemas now to experience the latest Venom and let us know what you think if Marvel's latest anti-hero.

#WeAreVenom

Disclaimer: Venom and associated trademarks are copyright to Marvel under license to Sony Pictures, referenced here for fan service announcements without intent to infringe.