Idris Elba wanted to absorb as much info as he could about Knuckles
The new movie aims to emphasize the dynamic between Sonic & Knuckles.
The Sonic the Hedgehog 2 trailer premiered last Thursday and gave us our first look at Idris Elba’s Knuckles. The powerful introduction of the red echidna that left Sonic fans awestruck was no accident either. The film’s director Jeff Fowler states that Elba had a keen level of attention in preparing for the role.
According to Fowler, Elba asked numerous questions about Knuckles’ history and motivations to help craft his take on the character. Elba was curious about everything from Knuckles’ connection with the Master Emerald to his dynamic with Sonic.
He was just so eager to absorb it all, and workshop him into the best version of the character, which was awesome. It was great to see how much he cared about getting it right.
Jeff Fowler
Sonic & Knuckles: speed vs. strength
Fowler also explains his vision for Knuckles in the movie. Like Elba, Fowler took the job of faithfully representing the echidna. He explains how crucial it was to show Knuckles’ strength compared to Sonic in their early interactions. In the film’s universe, the Blue Blur is in many ways green when it comes to combat.
Therefore, with Knuckles’ power and warrior instinct, Sonic is at a severe disadvantage. In the trailer, this is visualized as Sonic charges Knuckles, only to be knocked to the ground by his sheer strength. Fowler further elaborates his take on their early dynamic.
When we ended the first film, Sonic’s been in one fight. That does not turn you into a superhero overnight. And you bring along a character like Knuckles, whose entire existence is about honor and about being a warrior, and, like right off the bat, Sonic is no match for that dude.
Jeff Fowler
According to Fowler, the heart of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 really comes from this dynamic. Throughout the movie, Sonic will grow and develop further into his role as a hero.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 races into theaters on April 8, 2022! Are you excited for the Blue Blur’s second big-screen outing? Let us know what you think below!
Via Polygon
