If the Hollywood mantra for making blockbusters is "faster, faster, faster," then the creators of "Sonic the Hedgehog" have wisely ignored it.

The little blue alien who can sprint quicker than the speed of light has ironically benefited from slowing it down, taking a pit stop to retool and emerge this month as a total crowd-pleaser.

Respectful of the rich history of the brand and yet welcoming to newcomers, " Sonic the Hedgehog " is a feel-good buddy movie for both adults and their own little aliens. "Nailed it!" screams Sonic at one point and that might be a fitting summary for the film.

Dire...