Knuckles: 6 episodes, 6 promising signs
Jonathon Redden
This will be Knuckles’ first appearance since Sonic The Hedgehog 2
The official trailer for Knuckles has landed, the highly anticipated spin-off series to the Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise. Sonic’s theatrical debut proved to be a huge hit with families and fans alike for its humour, performances and stunning visuals. Sonic 2 proved to be even better, seeing the debut of bad-tempered but likeable and hilarious echidna Knuckles, who serves as Sonic’s rival. Now boosting his way to Paramount+ here is how we can tell Knuckles will extend the Sonic movie universe for the better:
1. He looks more powerful than ever
One of the highlights of this franchise is the action sequences – from the glorious CGI visuals, seeing our hedgehog heroes punching walls or spinning at supersonic speed as they battle for their lives is a joy to watch. Knuckles, who specialises in super strength thanks to his deadly fists, can be seen in this trailer igniting flames with his knuckles, and rapidly darting towards an enemy while spinning, like a drill, both we have never seen before. And since when could he drive a motorbike?!
2. Looks good even without Carrey
Mad scientist and Sonic’s biggest enemy of all, Dr Robotnik, will not appear in this series. Being portrayed by such a big name like Jim Carrey, he was pretty much the selling point of the movie franchise from its beginning. The casting choice sparked interest beyond Sonic fans, and he delivered to everyone, so much that audiences couldn’t imagine the films without him. But thanks to the charm and visual appeal of Tails and Knuckles, along with other minor characters, the franchise is clearly making a name for itself without Carrey.
3. More character development for Knuckles
Despite attempting to kill Sonic, Knuckles was not necessarily evil but instead confused and simply obeyed orders from his creator, Robotnik. After befriending Sonic in Sonic 2, we see his funny side open up, where he claims “I am having the fun!” In this new trailer, we are introduced to a sillier side of Knuckles - we see him dress a dog in a Viking helmet and transform a living room into a Gladiator arena. We also learn that he is not all dim-witted but rather a good leader and mentor as he becomes a teacher of the ways of an echidna warrior. Looks like we’re yet to see the best of Knuckles.
4. No decline in visual quality
As mentioned before, one of the highlights of the first two Sonic movies is the groundbreaking 3D animation which blends in very well with the real world. However,
the budget generally drops with television spin-offs and the difference in quality is night and day, for example, the Kung Fu Panda Netflix follow-ups. Thankfully, Knuckles looks just as stunning and still has that Hollywood feel to it; this would not look out of place as a theatrical film. And the cherry on top is that all the voice actors return.
5. New characters
What makes a spin-off a spin-off is the focus on new and exciting characters. Knuckles follows this formula by presenting to us a new villainous figure who we find out worked for Robotnik, leaving us full of questions and anticipation. And who are these two new agents? And Knuckles’ new human friend? These new additions to the cast look very promising, not to mention keep things fresh.
6. New weapons/machinery
It rarely gets acknowledged, but I really enjoyed questioning in each scene what fancy device Robotnik will show up with as part of his scheme to rid Sonic, with some scenes having me in fits of laughter.
In our first look at Knuckles, we see a giant robotic hand, laser guns, a long-armed robot with a chain capable of wrapping Knuckles, and the new villain’s intimidating laboratory. The producers are certainly trying to up their game in this department, and the potential for thrilling boss battles is there. I’m really looking forward to the sci-fi aspect of this series because it’s one thing that makes Sonic great.
The very promising Knuckles is available to stream from 27th April on Paramount+. Time has gotta go fast!