Knuckles TV Show: A Disappointing Sonic Spin-off
The Knuckles Television Show, a spin-off from the successful Sonic the Hedgehog films, recently premiered on Paramount+. While the movies managed to avoid many common pitfalls of live-action video game adaptations, the Knuckles series unfortunately falls prey to them. The show centers around Wade Whipple, the comedic relief cop from the films, rather than Knuckles himself. The premise involves Knuckles training Wade to become a warrior, but their on-screen chemistry is lacking, and the writing fails to capitalize on their contrasting personalities. Wade’s character is neither particularly funny nor interesting, and his character arc feels shallow and predictable.
The show struggles to execute its central premise. Despite constant talk of “training,” Knuckles never actually provides any meaningful instruction or guidance to Wade. There’s no skill development, physical conditioning, or even a genuine desire from Wade to become a warrior. His true goal is to win a bowling tournament with his team, “The Warriors.” The series feels more like a road trip to Reno for the tournament than a warrior’s training journey.
The six-episode series has its redeeming qualities but suffers from significant flaws. The first episode, directed by Jeffrey Fowler and featuring guest appearances from Sonic, Tails, and Maddie Wachowski, comes closest to capturing the heart and humor of the films. It focuses on Knuckles adjusting to suburban life and provides enjoyable interactions between the Wachowski family.
However, Wade’s arrival brings the episode down with awkward and unfunny humor. The plot is set in motion by a contrived encounter with Chief Pachacamac (voiced by Christopher Lloyd), who instructs Knuckles to train Wade. Their relationship lacks development, and the road trip feels forced.
The villains, Agent Willoughby (Ellie Taylor), Agent Mason (Scott Mescudi), and The Buyer (Rory McCann), are underwhelming and forgettable. Mescudi and McCann’s performances feel phoned in, while Taylor’s attempts at being a decent B-villain fall short.
Episode 3 introduces Wade’s family, including his grating sister Wanda, a poorly conceived character whose supposed sibling rivalry with Wade feels forced and unpleasant. The episode attempts to blend Jewish traditions with the Sonic universe, but the tonal dissonance and immature humor undermine any emotional resonance.
Episode 4, despite Knuckles’ limited presence, is surprisingly enjoyable. It features a rock opera summarizing Knuckles’ warrior training and showcasing elements from the Sonic games. Wade briefly gains a powerful move but never utilizes it again.
The final two episodes are largely uneventful, culminating in a disappointing showdown with The Buyer and his mech. The series concludes abruptly, without any meaningful resolution or teases for future installments.
