Back in June 2014, Sony Pictures announced it was teaming up with the Sega Sammy Group to produce a live-action/CGI hybrid movie based on the beloved video game Sonic the Hedgehog. At the time, no release date was announced, and we haven't heard anything about this movie project since then. But thanks to a new interview, we now know the project is still on track. The World Folio recently spoke with Sega Sammy Group CEO Hajime Satomi, who confirmed that the Sonic the Hedgehog movie is being planned for a 2018 release date.
"Sega Sammy Group is currently planning with Sony Pictures to create a live-action and animation hybrid Sonic the Hedgehog movie scheduled for release in 2018. Like with this CG animation production, we would like to expand our business into other entertainment areas beyond what we are currently involved."
No director is attached yet, but last year's announcement revealed that the script will be written by Evan Susser and Van Robichaux. Neal H. Moritz is producing through his Original Film banner, along with Marza's Takeshi Itô and Mie Onishi. Toby Ascher will serve as an executive producer. No specific plot details were given yet, but fans can expect several iconic characters from the video game to surface.
The film will look to capture Sonic's irreverent tone and spirit, reuniting him with some of the most revered and infamous characters of the franchise, including the evil Dr. Eggman. Playful, mischievous, and quick on his feet in more ways than one, the world's fastest hedgehog is known for his ability to move at supersonic speed to protect his friends from their enemies. For more than two decades, Sonic has been one of the world's biggest gaming icons and a $1 billion franchise with more than 140 million games sold.
Sonic the Hedgehog was previously brought to the small screen with the 1993 animated series The Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog, with Jaleel White (Family Matters) lending his voice to the title character. No voice cast members have been announced for this new movie, but hopefully we'll get some official details very soon. Are you looking forward to seeing Sonic the Hedgehog on the big screen?