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The release date for the "Sonic the Hedgehog" movie has been delayed so the titular character can be redesigned, following backlash from fans over Sonic’s look in the trailer.
Jeff Fowler, director of "Sonic the Hedgehog," tweeted Friday that the movie's new release date is Feb. 14, 2020. It was previously set for a November 2019 release.
“Taking a little more time to make Sonic just right,” Fowler tweeted, along with a picture of Sonic’s cartoon hand holding a sign announcing the new release date.
Taking a little more time to make Sonic just right.#novfxartistswereharmedinthemakingofthismovie pic.twitter.com/gxhu9lhU76
— Jeff Fowler (@fowltown) May 24, 2019
Fans on Twitter reacted to the news with excitement and support.
Thank you for listening to the fans. You guys made the right call. I have much higher hopes for this movie now because you guys are showing that you are listening.
— Canadian Guy Eh (@Canadianguyehh) May 24, 2019
Good on you and good luck to you and your crew!
Thanks, man. Please, by all mean, take all the time you need. I can even wait until 2021. Keep up the good work!! pic.twitter.com/3DISyOf9YT
— [🇰🇷] 트리프 / Trepe in 🇰🇷 (@trepeserafin) May 24, 2019
Thank you Mr.Fowler, for being open to criticism and not overworking your VFX artists. It must have not been an easy decision for you, SEGA, or Paramount, but it’s the right move. pic.twitter.com/bWuJUpXJwZ
— SEGANintendoUbisoft (@SegaUbi) May 24, 2019
Fan criticism of the design for the Sonic character followed immediately after the April 30 release of the movie’s trailer. Most seemed dissatisfied with Sonic’s teeth, which resembled those of a human, and long, slender legs.
Literally what is this. I’m going to be sick 🤢🤮 pic.twitter.com/X55LGcF5QA
— ALEX (@_cacophony_) April 30, 2019
WHAT HAVE YOU MONSTERS DONEEEE
— Diamondbolt (@Diamondbolt7) April 30, 2019
Aren't you an ANIMATION ARTIST? A professional VISUAL EFFECTS specialist? If so, how could you mess up Sonic's design like this? Please change it before the release, it's not too late!@LostChaosTv @RidersDX @SamsProStation @Edible_Potatoes @RicFromSSS @redhotsonic_RHS @YongYea pic.twitter.com/Tmx9dvOvcz
— Marceau Blétard 🇨🇦🇧🇪 (@MarceauBletard) May 2, 2019
Fowler responded via tweet May 2, saying, in part, "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."
Based on the video game series, the live-action "Sonic the Hedgehog" movie follows Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz, perhaps best-known for playing Jean Ralphio on the TV show "Parks and Recreation") as cop Tom Wachowski (James Marsden) helps him escape capture from the government, which is being aided by supervillain Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey).
Cox Media Group
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