The success of Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog franchise lies in its thoughtful approach to voice casting, which avoids the pitfalls of celebrity stunt casting that can detract from quality and immersion. In contrast, Universal and Illumination’s Super Mario Bros. Movie relies on gimmick casting that focuses on maximizing profits at the expense of authenticity.
Ben Schwartz’s portrayal of Sonic is a prime example of this approach. While he’s a Hollywood star, Schwartz steps into the role without drawing attention to himself, allowing audiences to focus on the character’s artistry and personality. This approach is also evident in Keanu Reeves’ performance as Shadow, where the parallels between actor and character create a well-rounded and sympathetic portrayal.
The key difference between Sonic the Hedgehog and The Super Mario Bros. Movie lies in their commitment to authenticity. While Paramount’s voice cast chooses actors who are deeply connected to their characters, Universal and Illumination’s film relies on superficial casting choices that prioritize profits over quality.
This disparity is evident in the tone of each movie. Sonic the Hedgehog is a transformative film that immerses audiences in fantastical worlds, while The Super Mario Bros. Movie feels like a cold, transactional adaptation that prioritizes celebrity casting over character development.
The success of Paramount’s Sonic franchise demonstrates that thoughtful voice casting can elevate an animated film to new heights. By choosing actors who are deeply connected to their characters, these films create a sense of authenticity and immersion that is essential for transporting audiences to new worlds.
In contrast, The Super Mario Bros. Movie’s reliance on gimmick casting raises questions about the value of celebrity involvement in voice acting. While it may bring attention and box office success, it also sacrifices quality and character development in the process.
Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/sonic-3-understands-the-importance-of-voice-acting-and-it-shows