'Holmes' A Fast-Paced Adventure

by Paulina Kosturos

Who knew Sherlock Holmes could sport a pair of ripped abs!

In Guy Ritchie’s “Sherlock Holmes,” an action-packed interpretation of the classic character of the same name, audiences are treated to an array of conspiracies, fight scenes, explosions, a ginger-headed midget and spooky magic. This chaotically entertaining take on the Arthur Conan Doyle novels forces Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and Dr. John Watson (Jude Law) to investigate a series of bizarre murders perpetrated by the notorious Lord Blackwood, who has risen from the dead. As the crime-fighting duo attempts to catch the illusive Blackwood, Holmes’ former lover (Rachel McAdams) enters the picture, working for a shady nemesis.

The on-screen Holmes ditches all refinement and embodies the role of a quick-thinking daredevil. His superior critical thinking skills match his peak physical condition. In addition to solving baffling clues, Holmes engages in bad-boy fight scenes, often calculating the physical damage he will inflict on his victims in a matter of seconds.

Aside from Holmes’ somewhat spastic personality, Holmes and Watson engage in an outrageously funny “bromance.” Holmes’ hurtful comments to Watson’s fiancée and his often crazy experiments make Holmes and Watson a match made in heaven. Their onscreen bickering successfully characterizes Watson as the sensibility behind Holmes’ fast-paced demeanor.

While this humorous action film remains entertaining, please note that fans devoted to Doyle’s novels may find “Holmes” a hyper, child-like idiot on crack. They may categorize the plot line as juvenile and thoughtless. Consider the script a humorously dark, modern take on the novels. This movie makes the novels more appealing to a younger generation who may not be familiar with the usual sophisticated version of Holmes. Nevertheless, all audiences should keep an open mind and go spend a dollar at Cheap Seats!