Sonic the Hedgehog 3 to Start Filming in London in August

While studios like Marvel are in the process of scratching their heads on where to go next, the live-action adaptation of classic and modern video games is continuing its impressive renaissance. The Sonic the Hedgehog films have since proved themselves to be a magnetic draw for fans everywhere, and those iconic golden rings as well. The next cinematic sequel in the popular adapted franchise is set to pick up where the second film left off, and it turns out that production is already off to the races. Per a report from Production List, shooting for the film is set to begin across the pond over in London on August 31.

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The Sonic The Hedgehog film franchise is based on the classic videogames of the same name developed by SEGA, featuring the iconic blue hedgehog himself and many other notable characters from the series. Jeff Fowler, who directed the first two films, is in fact returning to helm the third one while producers will include Neal H. Mortiz, Hajime Satomi, Toby Ascher, Tim Miller, Nan Morales, and Toru Nakahara. John Whittington, Pat Casey and Josh Miller are all returning as well to write the script. The cast for the film isn’t confirmed yet, but so far Ben Schwartz will be reprising his role as Sonic, along with James Marsden as Tom Wachowski, Idris Elba as Knuckles, and Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails. While arch-villain Dr. Robotnik faced a seemingly permanent demise at the end of the previous film, it has been neither confirmed nor denied if Jim Carrey will come back to the role in some form. He’s reportedly been considering retirement from acting altogether, and Fowler has indicated that the character will not be recast if he chooses not to.

The premise of the film remains largely under wraps, but it will very likely pick up right where the previous flick left off, with Sonic (Schwartz) having vanquished Robotnik (Carrey) and his latest robotic plot that nearly caused destruction with the Master Emerald. Having successfully reclaimed it, Knuckles (Elba) vows to protect the Emerald after being betrayed by Robotnik along with Sonic and Tails (O’Shaughnessey). Credits scenes hinted at the introduction of Shadow the Hedgehog, so he likely will make some sort of appearance in the new film.

Knuckles Spin-Off Series Planned As Well

As if the movies weren’t big enough for Sonic’s hyper-speed adventures, it turns out that there will be a spin-off series starring Knuckles as well, with Idris Elba confirmed to reprise the role for the supplemental project. Details of the plot are scarce so far, but Knuckles will apparently be training police officer Wade Whipple (Adam Pally) from the second film to become a warrior of sorts. Tika Sumpter is also confirmed to reprise her role as Maddie for the series, and other stars include Edi Patterson, Julian Barratt, Scott Mescudi, Ellie Taylor, and Game of Thrones alum Rory McCahn. The show is set to premiere sometime this year on the Paramount+ streaming platform.