Looks like fans of a certain little blue speedster have a lot to look forward to. The upcoming sequel to 2020's surprise film success Sonic the Hedgehog will reportedly begin filming in March, and one of the stars from the previous movie just confirmed their return.
Actress Tika Sumpter, who played Maddie Wachowski in Sonic the Hedgehog, confirmed not only her return to the role in the highly anticipated follow-up but also when its shooting would begin. During an interview on Live with Kelly and Ryan, the titular hosts asked Sumpter about her family's enjoyment of the previous film, to which Sumpter responded that "[my daughter is] super excited about Sonic 2, which I'm about to start in March... We're shooting in Hawaii and Vancouver."
Her answer offers a speckling of new information, beginning with the confirmation that filming would begin soon. With COVID-19 affecting what films even get made, just knowing that it's coming is likely a relief to many fans. The statement also confirmed that Sumpter would be reprising her role in the sequel alongside James Marsden, who had already signed on to return as her character's husband Tom. Sonic voice actor Ben Schwartz and Jim Carrey, who plays Dr. Robotnik, are also expected in the sequel.
One more bit of info that might go unnoticed is the mention of shooting the film in Hawaii. The first Sonic the Hedgehog movie was shot almost entirely in Vancouver, which is certainly believable based on the locations in the film. So the mention of such a wildly different type of location suggests some interesting theories on where the sequel's story might go. The studio has already confirmed that Knuckles the Echidna will appear in the next film, so it's clear that it plans on expanding things substantially. Hopefully, they keep things safe while filming in a pandemic.
Shooting in Hawaii could mean a number of things. Maybe it will be used as an alien planet? Dr. Robotnik could use an exotic locale to stand in for the unknown dimension he currently occupies. Or maybe it's the world where the echidnas come from? That would make for a convenient way to introduce Knuckles. If the film follows the games' loose lore, Sonic and Knuckles' first time meeting will probably begin with a fight, and what better place for a fight than a lush alien jungle?
Granted, it could also mean that Tom, Maddie, and Sonic go on vacation to Hawaii for a scene. Considering how Sumpter seemed to indicate she would be part of the filming in that particular location, that would probably make a lot more sense. Still, nothing wrong with a little speculating to make the wait for Sonic 2 easier.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is scheduled to be released in theaters on April 8, 2022.
Source: Live with Ryan and Kelly/YouTube