It’s weird to think about where Sonic the Hedgehog was less than a year ago, back when people were still upset over the original design for the cartoon speedster. One couldn’t be blamed for thinking that the movie was doomed to fail spectacularly due to the colossal backlash, yet here it is, going in the exact opposite direction to become a major hit with critics and audiences alike, and reaching impressive milestones in the process.
Who knew a more faithful redesign of the star character would be enough to turn things around so completely, but that’s what’s happened here. Sega’s parent company, Sega Sammy Holdings, reaffirmed how much of a success the movie is, and then some, announcing that Sonic the Hedgehog made over a grand total of around $210 million worldwide within 10 days of its premiere. To say that is remarkably impressive would be stating the obvious.
Though it’s not too surprising an outcome, all things considered. From day one, the movie has maintained a pace at the box office befitting a character often referred to as the “fastest thing alive.” It’s had the best domestic opening of any video game movie ever (beating out the previous holder of that title, Pokemon: Detective Pikachu), it’s managed to hold onto its top spot for a second week in a row, and it’s very likely it’ll be able to do so for a third week.
Again, it’s pretty incredible that this is how things have ended up for Sonic the Hedgehog. Only a year ago, people were already wary of the movie thanks to the teasers hinting at Sonic’s uncanny original look, and the official reveal of a small-eyed, realistically toothy hedgehog only served to make things worse. Granted, now that the movie is out, it’s clear that the initial design wasn’t the only problem with the Sonic movie, but it goes to show how much the improved design has managed to endear the movie to audiences across the globe in spite of its flaws.
Where once it seemed like no one wanted to see this movie, it now seems like everyone can’t wait to get more movie Sonic. At this rate, a sequel seems all but guaranteed, and Sonic the Hedgehog’s post-credit scene proves that Paramount Pictures is clearly gunning to make a franchise out of this film. Whether it will be as financially successful as the first one, only time will tell, but it's safe to say that people will definitely be more excited for it than they were this time.
Sonic the Hedgehog is in theaters now.