Video game franchises have always been searching for ways to break new ground and enter new markets. Many of the time, the easiest markets to enter are those similar to one’s own, so a logical step for video game companies is to produce movies centered around their games, remaining in the same entertainment vein. And this is lucky for the avid video game consumer, as the more content centered around our favorite characters and plotlines, the better! In the past year, two particular movies, which have broken into the world of 3D animation, have really caught my attention.
Detective Pikachu – There are A LOT of Pokemon movies, some of which date back to the 90s and early 2000s. In fact, Pokemon has got a special hold on the video game movie market. But Detective Pikachu is the most recent flick from the franchise. And, it has got the most sophisticated animation style of any Pokemon movie yet. I saw this film in theaters when it came out, and I found myself falling in love with Pokemon all over again. In fact, I cried actual tears at the sight of 3D-animated Bulbasaur. The storyline was adorable, the human characters were very likeable, and seeing all of the Pokemon animated and integrated into the “real world” was insanely cool.
I actually developed a really strong liking to the human character, Lucy. She is an aspiring journalist, which I, of course, relate to. And her companion Pokemon is a Psyduck, who is very important to the plot. Lucy and her Psyduck were definitely a bright spot in the film for me.
Another stand-out factor of this movie was Ryan Reynolds’ role. He voiced Detective Pikachu, and he did an incredible job. Reynolds is always a fantastically hilarious voice actor, and this role was no exception.
I definitely recommend checking out this movie. It’s currently on Amazon Prime Video for free.
Sonic the Hedgehog – The Sonic movie, produced by SEGA, came out on Valentine’s Day of this year, and it was surprisingly great. I saw this movie in theaters as well, and didn’t really know what to expect. I don’t think I expected much. But that’s probably why I’m so impressed!
The Sonic movie was extremely enjoyable to watch. Sonic’s character was animated beautifully. When the movie first put out its trailer, Sonic looked horrendous, and everyone knew this and made countless memes. I can’t tell if this was a marketing scheme or not, but apparently, the team who made the movie saw the negative response and then went immediately back to the drawing board, pushing back the movie’s release date. This was definitely worth it, as Sonic ended up looking great and authentic.
The story of the film wasn’t one that I totally expected either. My favorite part of the movie, hands down, was Jim Carrey’s performance as Dr. Robotnik. Carrey was absolute perfection in the role. For any Sonic nerds, this movie is a must-see. The blatant Olive Garden product placement also totally worked, I’m ashamed to say, as I had to visit and get some pasta afterwards.
There’s currently nowhere you can watch Sonic for free, sadly. However, it is available on Amazon Prime Video for $20, if you’re willing to shell out the cash. I’d do it.
Gamer Zone 