Serious upgrade from the original

Rating: 8/10 (14 March 2012)

The 2nd chapter in Robert Downey's turn as the classic detective, A Game of Shadows came out during the 2011's packed holiday movie season. For me personally, this one got pushed behind releases like Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol and the U.S. version of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. While I have plenty of faith in RBJ's ability to carry a movie, I just had a feeling this one would fall short of the original. Turns out it made me forget about it altogether.
Game of Shadows starts off with Sherlock's ever faithful companion, Dr. Watson, leaving his adventure days behind to get married. It turns out that the timing could have been better, since Holmes suspects the well-respected Prof. James Moriarty of having a sinister plan underway that could plunge all of Europe into war. Will the duo be able to take on their most challenging adversary yet?
This film provides just more examples on how Robert Downey Jr. improves a film. His acting and natural humor help create a great character in Sherlock Holmes. Even more, he allows the other actors to play off his talents and then be better themselves. The addition of Noomi Rapace, ever popular after her turn as Lisbeth Salander, adds even more depth. Outside of the acting, Guy Ritchie yet again crafts a unique atmosphere through the setting and soundtrack. While the sets may be drab and dark, scenes are filled with excitement and adventure. Lastly, while the twists and turns along the way are more than enough, the best is saved for the end. This is particularly enjoyable when so many movies are predictable these days.
Overall, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows is a thrilling mystery, filled with a good amount of action and humor. It's a smart movie that will keep you guessing until the very end. Enjoy 8/10