Knuckles (2024) [4K UHD Review]

Known for his distinct character traits, Knuckles the Echidna has long been a fan-favorite since his introduction in Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (1994). While the 2020 Sonic the Hedgehog film and its 2022 sequel introduced Knuckles on the big screen, fans have eagerly awaited an in-depth exploration of the mysterious, loyal, and stoic warrior. This standalone Knuckles film delves into his backstory, offer high-octane action sequences, and build upon the world of Sonic in new and exciting ways.

Is Knuckles a show, a mini-series or a film?

The thought never crossed my brain until after I finish Knuckles on Paramount Plus. Was it shot as a movie and then carved into chunks afterward? I don’t think so, as directors such as Taccone and Trost have majorly put their creative stamp on what they shot. Yet, it’s also a split singular focus that runs for less than a combined three hours.

I don’t know why I’m so hung up on that, as every kid I’ve talked to about the show said it was epic long. No idea what to chalk that up to other than a warped sense of time. But, let’s talk about taking video game action in the real world.

Christopher Lloyd as a ghost

I still don’t quite get the scene where Knuckles contacts a dead ancestor to learn about being a true warrior on Earth. But, it serves the point of the show about an out-of-place warrior training an Earth deputy in the ways of the warrior. While played for more laughs than the main Sonic movies, it goes out of its way to keep drawing parallels.

But, Knuckles is just that. He’s not Sonic and his efforts in character and narrative to keep drawing parallels doesn’t work for anyone over the age of 12. Although, there is a Sonic man around my local city that you might have seen on YouTube. The better left unsaid, the better. But, my understanding is that even Sonic fans have a mixed opinion of Knuckles. They like some guy named Memphis Tennessee.

The Sonic Universe is really detailed

It’s amazing to see the work of Josh Miller and his writing partner come to life. Now, Sonic and his amazing friends are spreading to new venues, new writers, new directors and all sorts of new faces. As a lead-in to Sonic the Hedgehog 3, fans are going to get more of what they want. However, I watch this as an adult in 2024 with distant memories of the Genesis games. I’m an American that will never call it the Megadrive.

But, I was really wary if Knuckles could handle 3 hours of narrative storytelling. Hell, wasn’t he the character that got me out of Sonic games? It didn’t hurt that Sega was entering the era of let’s see how much we could add onto the Genesis and then leading into let’s see if we can convince the world that the 32x and Saturn are cool.

Knuckles was after my time, but I get the appeal.

Knuckles has always been more than just a muscle-bound warrior; he’s a character filled with contradictions, complexity, and growth potential. In his early appearances, Knuckles was depicted as a pawn in Dr. Robotnik’s schemes, believing that Sonic was the enemy. Over time, however, he evolved into a crucial ally, showcasing his loyalty, bravery, and honor.

If you can understand that, then you can appreciate what makes up the majority of the show. Sure, you get fun moments with the stand-in Robotnik ally and Cary Elwes as England’s greatest bowler. But it feels like 40 minutes of material stretched to three hours a lot.

What’s on the 4K UHD?

The 4K UHD comes with special features ranging from a gag reel and assortment of featurettes. The A/V Quality is fairly typical for recent 4K streaming making its way back to disc. The Dolby Atmos track is the killer factor of the disc. You get insane definition, clean-cut environmental audio and even more.

However, it doesn’t change the fact that unless you’re already a Sonic die-hard, it’s going to be a hard sell. Work with that how you want.

Knuckles is now available on 4K UHD. Buy it at MovieZyng!