KNUCKLES takes place between the films SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2 and SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 and follows Knuckles (Idris Elba) on a hilarious and action-packed journey of self-discovery as he agrees to train Wade (Adam Pally) as his protege and teach him the ways of the Echidna warrior. Featuring appearances by Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails, and Tika Sumpter (Maddie), the ensemble cast also includes Edi Patterson (The Righteous Gemstones), Rory McCann (Game of Thrones), Cary Elwes (Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning), Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future), and Paul Scheer (Black Monday). This collection includes every episode along with an exclusive gag reel and more!

For in-depth thoughts on Knuckles, please see my colleague Lane Mills’s review from its original streaming release here.

Video Quality

The 4K UHD Blu-Ray of Knuckles offers an astounding depth of quality that is a visual treat from start to finish, but the exact degree of improvement is difficult to determine given this release does not come with a Blu-Ray. The Dolby Vision/HDR harnesses impressive nuances out of the hues for unparalleled vibrancy. Nearly every element of the scenery, costumes, and production design contains a rich tapestry of color. Skin tones appear perfectly natural with crisp detail apparent on faces such as pores and makeup.

Elements in the series taking place in the shadows are vivid and finely delineated. The black levels are especially strong in this presentation, staying deep and inky with great detail. The highlights are well defined with whites perfectly pure and balanced with no instances of blooming to be found. This 4K UHD presentation really delivers on all fronts including strong outings in clarity and color. The Blu-Ray is more than likely satisfying, but Paramount continues to treat this franchise well by releasing it on 4K UHD Blu-Ray.

Audio Quality

This disc comes equipped with a rewarding Dolby Atmos presentation that, like the feature films, allows this world to feel fully expansive and three-dimensional. Sounds are deftly rendered with precise directionality from the more kinetic scenes to the reserved moments of dialogue. Ambient details are prominent and quite satisfying in the rear and overhead channels. The overhead channels serve to support the other channels rather than carry the main load, which adds a nice sense of depth to the mix.

The soundscape is not always as epic as the mainline Sonic the Hedgehog films, but this offshoot holds its own with a comfortably expansive experience. Dialogue is presented clearly without ever being drowned out by any of the chaotic developments. Musical cues and the score flow through the room effectively. The low end will wake you up when it counts with a rumbling response. The sound quality is top-tier all around. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided.

Special Features

Cast Featurette: A two-minute piece that explores the ensemble of the series and their place in this universe.

Working with Knuckles: A humorous minute-long piece about what it is like to work with the titular character.

This or That?: A minute-long quiz with the cast members.

Knuckles Impressions: A minute-long collection of impressions from the ensemble.

Gag Reel: A nearly eight-minute collection of flubbed lines, goofing around, malfunctioning props, and more.

Final Thoughts

Knuckles is a fun spinoff from the mainline film series that allows a delightful expansion of the lore of characters we love and an introduction to intriguing new figures without the pressure of fitting into a proper film narrative. The vocal talent and live-action performers are great, and the production value is every bit as high as you expect from this series. The series does not overstay its welcome, making it the perfect addition to the Sonic universe. Paramount Home Entertainment has released a 4K UHD Blu-Ray with a fantastic A/V presentation and a small array of supplemental features. Fans of the franchise should buy with confidence. Recommended

Knuckles can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or various other online retailers.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Paramount Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.