Movie Review: Sherlock Holmes

Great tidings from Hong Kong! It's technically my last day in this fine and cold weathered city, and so much has happened in the past few days that would make it such a memorable and enjoyable trip for a tourist such as myself. Checking out the sights and hanging out with familiar faces only adds more joy to the experience, and to top things off, I managed to catch one of the year end's most anticipated movies - Sherlock Holmes. The year of 2009 has brought some interesting films into the limelight, but this one takes the cake for its unique blend of comedy, action, and puns from Iron Man star himself, Robert Downey Jr. How did this Guy Ritchie film make an impression on me? Well, find out as I roll along with the review, ladies and gentlemen.



First and foremost, this is NOT your grandaddy's Sherlock Holmes, so eliminate all presumptions and preconceived ideas you have about this movie before actually watching it. The character Robert Downey Jr. portrays is one of brilliance, logic, and insanity. His take on Holmes is one of an eccentric detective who will use his powers of deduction to solve a case and go through it by any means necessary, and that counts for an unorthodox approach. To say that the actor fits the role like a glove is a complete understatement - he was born to play the role, and his catchy English accent adds credit to his portrayal of the legendary English sleuth. His partner and good friend Watson, played the equally talented Jude Law, is a great foil to Holmes' weirdness. Here you have two completely opposite people people who don't have anything in common - save for the thrill of solving crimes and serving London for the betterment of king and country. I always imagined Dr. Watson to be nothing more than a sidekick who follows Holmes' lead at every case, but this movie proves the contrary, and makes the duo a fantastic tag team acting force onscreen. As for the rest of the cast, Rachel McAdams is beautiful as Irene Adler, Holmes' on and off rival and love interest, and Mark Strong convinces the public he's a big bad guy as Lord Darkwood. For those who are looking for Professor Moriarty, he only plays a small role here, and I wouldn't be surprised if a sequel is in the works too. The film was awesome, but may be a tad bit cliche/ typical for an modernized action flick. Regardless, the film is a cross between the action/ comedy of a Mummy/Van Helsing movie and the beginnings of a hero as shown in Casino Royale/ Batman Begins. Definitely a must see if you are a fan of those elements, RDJ, or Guy Ritchie films in general.

Rating - 4/5

Well, time to go. The Game's a'foot.;)