‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ Movie Gets Second Wind With Paramount Deal

After starting the movie adaptation of "Sonic the Hedgehog" four years ago, Sony Entertainment has decided to drop the project. Luckily, Paramount Pictures picked up the rights for the movie, giving the Blue Blur's first big screen appearance another chance for fruition.

Despite the move, The Hollywood Reporter confirms that most of the team working on the "Sonic the Hedgehog" project remains intact. Neal H. Mortiz and his outfit Original Film are still producing the film, while "Deadpool" director Tim Miller takes the role of executive producer. Jeff Fowler, a friend and collaborator of Miller, will take on directorial duties for Sonic and the gang's dash to the movie house.

Meanwhile, on the video game side of things, Sega is teaming up with Hooters Restaurants to promote Sonic the Hedgehog and the upcoming game "Sonic Forces". Comic Book reported that the announcement was made during this year's Tokyo Game Show, though details about the actual promotion have yet to be revealed. Coverage was also unclear, whether the promotion will be Japan-only, or will US-based Hooters participate as well.

Created and produced by Sega, Sonic the Hedgehog was made to compete with rival Nintendo's mascot, Mario. Focusing on speed-based platforming, the game centers on the titular blue-colored hedgehog - and later on his friends - as he foils the plans of Dr. Eggman for world domination. The Chaos Emeralds were later on introduced in the series, colored gems that provide Sonic and other characters a power-up once collected.

After its release, Sonic the Hedgehog has become one of the best titles of Sega. Selling over 300 million different game copies, including mobile games, Sonic the Hedgehog has branched out into different mediums, including animated television shows and comic books. The Sonic the Hedgehog comics, in particular, has earned a Guinness World Record for the longest-running series based on a video game.