Sherlock Holmes

Walking out of the theatre after watching this film, the first word out of my mouth was "wow". Going in I wasn't sure what to expect. The way out, now that was a different story. It turned out to be the type of movie that you can watch over and over again; seeing different things you missed the first time around. I have always been a huge fan of Sherlock Holmes, and the portrayal of him in this movie was absolutely brilliant. He was perhaps a bit more violent than in the books, but still much the same character. The relationship between Holmes and Watson was also portrayed in a different, very entertaining and interesting way.

Another thing that made this movie so good was that many of the scenes were filmed in a very unique way, different from other action movies. The whole mood and setting of the movie was very fresh and unique, making it very captivating. For example, on two different occasions when Holmes comes fist to fist with his opponents, the movie goes into slow motion as Holmes thinks through every blow and the effect that it will have, showing his knowledge. The opening voice-over of the movie is "First point of attack, right ear. Two, throat, to muffle his scream. Three, cracked ribs. Four, sweep under right knee. In summary: neutralized. Chance of recovery: small". The plot is intricate and enthralling. In the famous words of Holmes himself, "The game is afoot." Sherlock Holmes fans will be thrilled by the clever clues he picks up on, and how he uses those clues to crack the case conerning the seemily ressurected sorcerer Lord Blackwood, who threatens all of England. Along with the action, Sherlock Holmes offers comedy and a hint of romance. Some of my favorite funny parts are centered around Holmes' dog, and Watson's remarks about Holmes' violin playing, messy room and overall lack of hygiene.

This movie is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some startling images and a scene of suggestive material. The storyline does come across as dark and slightly demonic. However--in typical Holmes form--the cover is blown and the truth is found. There are only 3 mild obscenities in the whole movie. The violence is probably what merits most of the rating; it includes multiple fist fights, explosions, two hangings and one man drowning in his bathtub (he is seen after the event). The suggestive scenes are also mild. Irene kisses a drugged Holmes, then leaves him laying handcuffed to the bed in her room, naked, with only a pillow covering him. It was actually quite comical.

Overall this movie was very enjoyable and quite suitable for children over the age of 13. I would highly recommend it and hope to buy it on DVD as soon as it comes out.