New York: ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2’ sped to the top of the charts in its opening weekend in the US, earning an impressive $71 million according to studio estimates.

Paramount’s PG-rated sequel easily bested the weekend’s other major newcomer, Michael Bay’s ‘Ambulance,’ which faltered in theatres.

‘Sonic 2,’ which brings back the first film’s director, writers and cast, including James Marsden, Jim Carrey and Ben Schwartz, who voices the blue video game character, opened in 4,234 locations and actually surpassed its predecessor’s opening weekend. The first ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ opened in February 2020, earning $58 million in its first three days.

‘Sonic 2’ is also the latest in a string of theatrical hits for Paramount in 2022, including ‘Scream,’ ‘Jackass Forever’ and ‘The Lost City,’ which is still in the top five.