The legendary detective is back and under Guy Ritchie’s interpretation, Sherlock Holmes is more like of a fast-paced action movie rather than a detective drama. Hardcore fans may not be appreciative of this movie but those less devout to Holmes may find this reboot as entertaining.
Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson must race against time to thwart Lord Henry Blackwood’s plan to take over the British Empire and restore the glory days of England. They are joined by Irene Adler who works for the mysterious man that had a great interest in the device owned by Lord Blackwood.
For devout fans, the portrayal of Holmes by Robert Downey, Jr. is probably strayed out from what’s been told in the books, from the clothes to the physical appearance and as well as characterization. Jude Law’s portrayal of Watson is also different than that of the books. Law’s Watson is a lot more resourceful and clever and skillful in martial arts. Law’s also taller than Downey, which made me think whether the roles should be reversed. Irene Adler is played by Rachel McAdams which suits the character well. Charming and elegant as well as smart, she is indeed a worthy rival of Holmes. Although Inspector Lestrade’s relationship with Holmes could have been explored more thoroughly, the plot prefers to focus on the Holmes’ relationships with Watson and Adler. Eddie Marsan however, played his part well in portraying the Scotland Yard inspector. I did however, imagined that Lestrade is a much taller and bulkier man than Marsan.
Production set and the visuals were great, as they managed to portray London as a somewhat dark place where crimes could have popped out of anywhere. The only mismatch was probably Holmes’ clothes which according to Guy Ritchie was intentionally made to be different. So, you won’t see Holmes in a long overcoat and wearing a deerstalker in this movie.
Overall, Sherlock Holmes is an entertaining movie in terms of fast-paced plot, great performance by the cast (Robert Downey,Jr. is nominated for Oscar for his role as Holmes), and Ritchie’s directorial style – although I still like Ritchie’s style in Lock, Stock and Snatch. Loyal fans of Holmes may be disappointed with the new interpretation of their favorite characters, but other than the fans probably going to enjoy this movie.
Final Score: 7.0.
Credits:
Directed by Guy Ritchie
Screenplay by Michael Robert Johnson, Anthony Peckham, Simon Kinberg
Story by Lionel Wigram, based on the characters by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Starring: Robert Downey, Jr., Jude Law, Rachel McAdams, Mark Strong, Eddie Marsan
Release year: 2009
IMDB Rating: 7.7
