Knuckles: A Punching Review of the Paramount+ Sonic Spin-Off
Knuckles, the six-episode live-action event series that landed on Paramount+ in April 2024, has left fans with a mix of emotions. Did it deliver the explosive action and character development we craved from the grumpy guardian of the Master Emerald? Let’s dive into the ring and explore what worked and what left us wanting a Chaos Emerald recharge.
Knuckles the Echidna: Stepping Out of Sonic’s Shadow
The series smartly positions itself between the events of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and 3. This allows Knuckles (voiced with gruff charm by Idris Elba) to take center stage. We see him grappling with his past as the last of his kind and his role as protector of the Floating Island. Enter Wade Whipple (Adam Pally), a bumbling but enthusiastic tech wiz who idolizes Knuckles. Wade convinces Knuckles to train him, and an unlikely but entertaining partnership forms.
Action-Packed, But Not Quite Supersonic
The fight scenes are a highlight. Knuckles’ fighting style is a brutal ballet of punches and kicks, and the CGI brings his super strength and agility to life. However, compared to the high-octane speed of the Sonic films, the action feels a tad sluggish at times.
Humor with a Hit-or-Miss Spin
The show leans heavily on the comedic dynamic between Knuckles and Wade. Their banter can be genuinely funny, especially when Knuckles’ exasperated reactions clash with Wade’s boundless enthusiasm. But the humor can also fall flat, relying on slapstick and pop culture references that feel out of place in the Sonic universe.
Expanding the Sonic Lore: A Worthy Spin Dash?
One of the series’ strengths is its world-building. We get glimpses into Knuckles’ history and Echidna culture, which fans of the games will appreciate. The series also introduces new characters and locations, hinting at a wider Sonic universe waiting to be explored. However, some felt these elements were underdeveloped, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
The Verdict: A Fun, Flawed Adventure
Knuckles is a decent spin-off that offers a chance to see a beloved character in the spotlight. The action is satisfying, the humor is hit-or-miss, and the world-building is intriguing. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the Sonic films, it’s a fun and engaging watch for fans of the franchise.
