Sonic the Hedgehog 3director Jeff Fowler addresses Shadow’s John Wick comparisons, explaining how it makes Keanu Reeves the perfect fit to voice him. Reeves will be joining thecast ofSonic the Hedgehog 3as the Ultimate Lifeform, who is working with Gerald Robotnik (Jim Carrey), plotting to destroy the world as vengeance for the death of Maria (Alyla Browne) fifty years earlier. Since his casting, comparisons have been made between the black hedgehog and the titular character in theJohn Wickfranchise. Both are played by Reeves, and have dark backstories motivating their paths of violence.
Speaking withSFX Magazine(viaGamesRadar),Fowler explained how Shadow’s “vibe” inSonic the Hedgehog 3was purposefully trying to be similar to John Wick. The director explained how Reeves' casting made the comparisons perfect, since both are anti-heroes, with the hedgehog having “a little edginess to him.” He also praises the actor for his dedication to bringing the hedgehog to life with his voice work. Check out what Fowler had to say below:
I’d be lying if I didn’t say there was just an obvious corollary between his performance in the John Wick films and the vibe we’re trying to channel for Shadow.
Because Shadow, from a tonal standpoint, is an anti-hero, he’s got a little edginess to him. It felt like the perfect fit for Keanu [Reeves]. He gave such a great performance. He knew what we were after, and was excited about playing the character and coming into our world.
What Fowler’s John Wick Comparison Means For Shadow In Sonic 3
The Ultimate Lifeform Is On A Quest For Revenge
Both Shadow and Wick have very similar backstories,both having lost people they were close to before deciding to embark on a quest for vengeance. In theJohn Wickmovies, this was the titular character’s dog, Daisy, who was the last remaining memory of his deceased wife. In mostSonic the Hedgehogcanons, the black hedgehog has a special bond with Maria, Gerald’s granddaughter, who he was created to save from an autoimmune disease. The movie appears to be going in this direction, with her death being the catalyst for his revenge.
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Fowler’s positive comparisons between the two characters further emphasizes whyReeves is the perfect choice to play Shadow. The director previously stated the actor had researched his character prior to joining the cast, meaning his performance will likely enhanceSonic the Hedgehog 3’s story. With the Ultimate Lifeform being so similar to his well-known action role, he’ll be able to channel that same energy in the performance he provides here.
Our Take On Shadow’s Similarities To John Wick
It Makes Reeves' Role Even More Exciting
Since Fowler has directly acknowledged the similarities between Shadow and Wick, it makes Reeves' role inSonic the Hedgehog 3even more exciting. He’ll also be wielding a gun, similar to his 2005 gameShadow the Hedgehog, meaning even more Wick comparisons could end up being made onscreen when the movie arrives. With the two characters having so many similarities to one another, it further highlights Reeves as the perfect choice to portray the new character.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3will be pulling story inspiration from the gamesSonic Adventure 2andShadow the Hedgehog.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Cast
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 reunites Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails as they face a formidable new adversary, Shadow. With Shadow’s unprecedented powers posing a significant threat, Team Sonic seeks an unexpected alliance to thwart his plans and safeguard the planet.
