James Marsden and Sonic, voiced by Ben Schwartz, are seen in the movie "Sonic the Hedgehog." The Catholic News Service classification is A-II -- adults and adolescents. (CNS/Sony)

By Catholic News Service

There’s something oddly mechanical and even maladroit about this adaptation of the Sega videogame.

On a lengthy road trip from rural Montana to San Francisco, the super-speedy extraterrestrial character of the title (voice of Ben Schwartz) interacts with various humans, most prominently a sheriff (James Marsden) he’s befriended, while being pursued by his nemesis, a mad scientist (Jim Carrey). Onto this mix of animation and live action has been larded considerable sentiment in the form of a subplot involving the protagonist’s improbable yearning to belong to a family.

Director Jeff Fowler’s film doesn’t constitute original comedy gold, but children should find some level of fascination.

Intense action sequences, a single scatological reference. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

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