Today’s quick review: Sherlock Holmes. When Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey, Jr.) and his partner John Watson (Jude Law) break up a murderous London cult, Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong) is arrested and hanged. But when his grave is found empty, apparently blown open from the inside, Holmes and Watson must reopen the case to find out how the self-proclaimed sorcerer rose from the dead and stop him before his plans to throw London into chaos are complete. Beguiling the duo along the way is the irresistible Irene Adler (Rachel McAdams), the one criminal Holmes cannot bring himself to catch. Their investigation takes them across London and deep into its government, unearthing occult secrets that just might be magic.
Sherlock Holmes is a lively, creative adaptation of the classic detective stories. Robert Downey, Jr. portrays Holmes as a bored genius, endlessly experimenting with chemicals, tinkering with gadgets, and boxing to stave off the boredom that sets in between cases. These facets of the character were present in the original stories to varying degrees, but they are played up in the film, producing a unique take on Holmes that complements both Downey, Jr.’s mischievous sense of humor and Guy Ritchie’s lively direction. Jude Law plays Doctor Watson, the straight man to the eccentric Holmes, skillfully walking the line between reluctant companion and willing accomplice. The duo are a delight to watch, clearly old and dear friends in spite of their differences. Holmes and Watson are nuanced characters with a complex relationship in addition to being an entertaining comedy duo.
The plot is well-constructed, full of intrigue and action. The central mystery is elaborate and satisfying, but its clues are difficult to interpret and its answers are back-loaded toward the end of the movie. As such, the mystery does a good job of taking the audience on an adventure and a poor job of taking the audience on an investigation. Director Guy Ritchie adapts well to his first big-budget film, adding polish and a sense of scope to his characteristic energy. Hans Zimmer scores the quirky soundtrack, giving the film a character that blends well with its acting, direction, and visual tone.
Sherlock Holmes is a fun adventure with a healthy mixture of action, mystery, and comedy. The Sherlock Holmes connoisseur may dislike this adaptation for the liberties it takes with the character, while mystery aficionados might sniff at the plot, but anyone who is willing to relax and have a good time will enjoy this movie. Give it a shot if you’re in the mood for a stylish film laced with mystery and humor.
7.6 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for fun and style.