"Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" delivers quality thrills

Rating: 8/10 (12 June 2012)

I'm a big Sherlock Holmes fan. I read the abridged adaptation of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" as a kid and was immediately addicted. I was then introduced to Basil Rathbone's movie version of the sleuth. Over the years, I've read a few of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's short stories and loved them all. Unlike many Sherlockians, I had no problem with Robert Downey Jr. playing the character. I thoroughly enjoyed his unique, physically fit, and active exploits in Guy Ritchie's first "Sherlock Holmes" film.
Sequels can go south very quick. I was happy this wasn't the case here. That's not to say it doesn't have its flaws.The only real issue is the beginning of the film, where it feels like Ritchie is trying to front-load it a bit too much. The rest of the movie moves along at a good pace and keeps viewers riveted. Don't try watching this in a noisy room or while doing something else because it's way too complex and you won't be able to keep up.