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.
Fans on Twitter reacted to the news with excitement and support.
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.
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).
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