Great fun

Rating: 9/10 (31 December 2009)

"Sherlock Holmes" is a terrific movie that, contrary to my expectation, captured the spirit and brilliance of the Arthur Conan Doyle novels. Although the trailers seemed to depict Holmes as morphing into an action hero, his detection work here is top-notch.
The story, involving the villainous Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong) and his scheme to blow up the Houses of Parliament, is actually very good and supremely involving. Just when you think they have left a giant plot-hole it is explained away in the next scene. It is a great story on it's own, but leaves an exciting set-up for a possible sequel. Holmes' nemesis Moriarty (added during reshoots) is woven into the plot without detracting from it. But anyone expecting Brad Pitt to make an appearance (even post-credits) will be disappointed.
Robert Downey Jr. is brilliant as Holmes - flamboyant, eccentric and coldly logical he fills the role sublimely. Jude Law is good fun as Watson, and Mark Strong makes a terrific villain. Rachel McAdams and Kelly Reilly are appealing as the love interests for Holmes and Watson, and Eddie Marsan makes a good fist of the bumbling Inspector Lestrade.
The sets and CGI backdrops are also skilfully crafted and deliver a real Victorian flavour. Some fantastic action scenes abound, with a thrilling finale atop Tower Bridge.
I don't want to give away too much, but watching this will certain whet your appetite or curiosity about the Sherlock Holmes books.
A joy to watch.