A few quick words on Sherlock Holmes
I don’t really have time to write a full on review so instead I’m giving you a couple of paragraphs based on some stuff I scribbled down last night. Note: I’ve really tried to tone down use of the word “awesome.”
Sherlock Holmes is awesome. It is definitely one of the best films I’ve seen in a while. The chemistry between Jude Law and Robert Downey Jr is spot on, creating a brilliant brotherly relationship with all the awkward macho-ness of Victorian gentlemen added on. Of course this kind of fast talking quick witted dialogue is the reason Downey Jr was invented-which is why the role suits him so well, but Law plays a brilliant striaght man, with a great dry sarcasm and complete lack of surprise at Holmes erratic behaviour.
OK so this version probably doesn’t live up to the books I haven’t read, but to be honest, who cares? I like this kind of action hero come detective character who has a few issues with drinking eye medicine. (For those who like trivia, that reference in the film is a nod to Holmes cocaine addiction.) Normally when a film is obvioulsy setting up for a franchise I start to become wary of obvious sequel lead ins, but with Holmes I was already couting the days to the next movie before the credits had even rolled. This is definitely a double act that could endure for a while yet, with almost limitless plot possibilities!
While we’re talking about plot, some have criticised the black magic story in the film saying it’s too supernatiral for Holmes, but I disagree. The fact that everything came down to it’s logical Scientific explanation suitted Holmes perfectly, while the character of Blackwood tapped into the culture of superstition at the time.
A few other quick thoughts. Hans Zimmer’s score is (as usual) brilliant and despite sounding like the wrong man for the job Guy Richie’s direction works well. There are a few of his trademarks there (I’m pretty sure slow-mo bare knuckle boxing was his idea) but in the context of the film nothing sticks out. A lot of effort went into recreating Victorian London as well, and the costume design is really good. Speaking of, one final bit of trivia for you: the costume designer obviously has a sense of humour-pay attention to where she has her name in the credits/picture montage. I’m pretty sure she didn’t have much work to do in that scene 😉
The Stories That Really Mattered 
glad you liked it – Sherlock Holmes is a great big fun piece of cinema. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for a sequel
cinemascream
February 18, 2010
Good to hear you enjoyed the movie, the Hans Zimmer soundtrack was pure genius. Sherlock Holmes was a B+ for me.
Castor
February 22, 2010
I think it’s high time someone gave “Sherlock Holmes” a fresh take, and by gum Guy Ritchie did it. Robert Downey Jr. is spot-on. I can’t imagine anyone else playing Holmes. He has the right kind of snarky, shrewd intelligence … the very same kind I’d imagine the world’s greatest detective would have.
Also, Mark Strong is WON-DER-FUL as a villain. He showed that in “Body of Lies” and did himself one better here. More please and soon!
mcarteratthemovies
March 4, 2010
I’m teh saem wrtih Downey Jr. When they first announced it I was surprised because he doesn’t fit the traditional image but I hoped he wold be really good and he was. I can’t imagine anyone else now.
I spent the whole movie desperately trying to place Mark Strong, then I finally realised he was Septimus in Stardust. Loving his work.
Katie
March 5, 2010