After co-starring opposite the titular blue speedster of Sonic the Hedgehog 2, Knuckles (Idris Elba) will soon feature in his own project. Knuckles marks the first time that the cinematic universe inspired by the popular Sega video game will branch out into television.
The series finds the echidna setting out on a journey of self-discovery as he trains Deputy Sheriff Wade Whipple in his warrior ways. Reprising the role of Whipple is Adam Pally, who had minor roles in both Sonic the Hedgehog films.
On paper, you can see what the creators were thinking. You have a buddy comedy road trip story with the reserved, serious, and fearsome Knuckles paired with the inept, happy-go-lucky apprentice in Whipple. It’s an opportunity to expand this shared world and explore deeper an interesting character we’ve already met.
The show maintains the spirit of the Sonic the Hedgehog movies with its combination of humor, action, and spectacle. It keeps things family friendly although it might be more geared towards the younger audiences rather than the fans who grew up with the video games. Because of that, there is some silly fun and good action sequences, but nothing too deep. Unfortunately, it seems so safe and formulaic that there are really only a few memorable moments.
However, the biggest complaint is that it isn’t really a Knuckles story. We barely touch the surface of the character and his new motivations now that he’s living on Earth. There isn’t much growth, and he’s pretty much the same person but with one new friend. He plays second fiddle in his own series.
Much of the emotional weight comes from Whipple’s journey in growing his confidence, overcoming his family issues, and finding his inner warrior. That would be okay if the show was called Whipple, but it’s not. He’s not the reason people want to tune in no matter how amiable Pally tries to be. Speaking of Pally, he’s fine in the role, but it’s a little disappointing considering he’s had more charming turns as the lovable sidekick in previous roles.
If the titular character barely receives any development, don’t expect much from the supporting cast. Rory McCann, Kid Cudi, and Ellie Taylor come off as generic bad guys fueled by money and power. Showing a little more personality are Stockard Channing and Edi Patterson as Whipple’s mom and sister respectively. Patterson’s work on The Righteous Gemstones makes her a good fit as the annoying sibling, but Channing has a surprising action edge to her. The actor who made the most of his scenes is Carey Elwes. He is deeply charismatic and delightfully hateable.
Knuckles pulls a switcheroo by telling a good personal journey of someone other than Knuckles. Though it keeps with the spirit of the franchise, the disappointment of not featuring its star may be too much.
Knuckles premieres April 26 on Paramount+.
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