Sonic the Hedgehog 2 has been on many moviegoers’ to-watch list, and on April 1st, 2022, the second Sonic adventure was finally released into cinemas. 

The sequel to the 2020 movie Sonic the Hedgehog seems to be a hit amongst fans of both the video games on which the movies were based, as well as the first film, making it a success already. 

As well as other behind-the-scenes videos released in the run up to the release of Sonic 2, there have also been clips released after the movie’s debut, including the ‘Knuckle Down’ clip, focusing on Sonic’s (Ben Schwartz) opponent, Knuckles. 

"Sonic, meet Knuckles." / Picture Credit: Paramount Pictures

Along with Tails (Colleen O'Shaughnessey), Knuckles is a new addition to the film franchise, although many will recognise the Echidna from the games. 

Knuckles is voiced by the one and only Idris Elba (The Suicide Squad), who, in the recently-released video, states that Sonic was one of his “first gaming heroes”, no doubt making his role in Sonic 2 a dream come true. 

“Knuckles’ sole purpose is to go after Sonic,” explains Elba, “he’s from a very powerful, proud tribe”, detailing who his character is, and what his mission is within the movie. 

Knuckles is after Sonic at all costs / Picture Credit: Paramount Pictures
Knuckles is after Sonic at all costs / Picture Credit: Paramount Pictures

Going further into his role, Elba describes Knuckles as having a “menacing presence”, and that the red Echidna “means business”, which he most certainly does. 

In the sequel, Knuckles is a brilliant character. He has a firm moral compass, and does what he believes to be right with almost no question and a plan in mind. He is Sonic’s ultimate match, in more ways than one. 

The red mammal, despite his domineering presence, is rather comedic, as he doesn’t understand many of Earth’s customs, which makes any instance where he shows his lack of understanding borderline hilarious. 

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is in cinemas now! / Picture Credit: Paramount Pictures
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is in cinemas now! / Picture Credit: Paramount Pictures

The clip rounds out with Elba simply stating that “I love Knuckles”, proving that his voice is not the only thing making him a perfect choice for the character, but also his adoration for the franchise and for Knuckles himself. 

Joining Elba in the cast for Sonic 2 is James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Natasha Rothwell, Adam Pally, Shemar Moore, Lee Majdoub, and Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. 

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is in cinemas now! 

Written by Melissa, who you can follow on Twitter @melissajournal

MORE: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is out now: Watch the official Meet Knuckles clip ahead of your cinema trip