Paramount Delays ‘Sonic The Hedgehog’ To Make The Mascot’s Design “Just Right”
Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog film is no stranger to criticism; series fans and non-fans alike have expressed distaste for the film’s redesign of the iconic gaming mascot, and the first trailer Paramount released was subjected to wide backlash. In fact, the backlash was so significant that director Jeff Fowler swiftly took to Twitter to respond to fans’ concerns, assuring people they would adjust Sonic’s design.
Thank you for the support. And the criticism. The message is loud and clear… you aren’t happy with the design & you want changes. It’s going to happen. Everyone at Paramount & Sega are fully committed to making this character the BEST he can be… #sonicmovie #gottafixfast 🔧✌️
— Jeff Fowler (@fowltown) May 2, 2019
The exact nature of these changes were and still are uncertain, but Fowler returned to the social media platform today to explain his team is “taking a little more time” to perfect the mammal’s look for his Hollywood debut. While not necessarily indicative of how he’ll look in the finalized product, the sketch draws attention to Sonic’s white gloves, which would bring his design closer to his game counterpart.
However, the magnitude of these changes necessitated that Paramount delay the film. Its new release date, as stated by the signpost Sonic’s holding, is Feb. 14, 2020. After Fowler’s initial comment, many were concerned improving Sonic’s design would strain the film’s staff as the initial November release drew closer, so the delay is welcome news.
Taking a little more time to make Sonic just right.#novfxartistswereharmedinthemakingofthismovie pic.twitter.com/gxhu9lhU76
— Jeff Fowler (@fowltown) May 24, 2019