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Rachel McAdams, Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Mark Strong, Kelly Reilly ...( see more  see more... ) , William Hope

Detective Sherlock Holmes and his stalwart partner Watson engage in a battle of wits and brawn with a nemesis whose plot is a threat to all of England.

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85% liked it

335,608 ratings

Critics

69% liked it

136 critics

PG-13, 2 hrs. 14 min.

Directed by: Guy Ritchie

Release Date: December 25, 2009

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Flixster Reviews (7,828)

  • allan913
    December 27, 2009
    allan913
    A smart, thrilling, stylish and incrediably fun action-packed adventure. a brilliant and exhileraing piece of adreniline-pumping action movie enjoyment. It's endlessly cool and wickedly funny. The perfect blend of mystery, action and comedy. It takes the classic mystery tale and ...( read more)adds some new exciting things and has you wanting more. A dazzeling and fantastic film. Director, Guy Ritchie strikes gold, attacking a new genre and probaly crafting his best film yet. It's stunning, explosive, well-crafted and wonderfully performend. It hits all the right notes. A sizzeling all-star cast. Robert Downy Jr. is outstandong, he once again delivers a performance that will be considered a classic, showing great charisma, charm, style and humor. Jude Law is teriffic. Rachel McAdams is wonderful. Mark Strong is brilliant. Law and Downy Jr. have outragious chemistry together, showing that their is more to love about this film. They are just a great buddy team. A hilarious and pulse-pounding rollar-coaster ride.
  • irisheyes686
    December 26, 2009
    irisheyes686
    It wasn't as amazing as I thought it was going to be, but I still enjoyed it for the most part. RDJ's "accent" was a little hard to understand at times. I'm not a Jude Law fan, but I thought he and RDJ did well together in this movie.
  • DrZeek
    December 26, 2009
    DrZeek
    Sherlock Holmes: Now that you are both seated comfortably, I shall begin...

    A lot of fun to be had here in an update of author Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective series. A finely made adventure story, with Robert Downey Jr. making for a great Sherlock Holmes, add to that won...( read more)derful chemistry between him and Jude Law as Watson, as well as stylish direction by Guy Ritchie. And as much as I enjoyed these elements of the film, Hans Zimmer's score was certainly the best part for me.

    Now to start off, before outlining the plot, I have to make notice of how much I love that Warner Bros lets the filmmakers mess around with their opening logos. This time it actually even factors into the movie as it begins. So, set in Victorian Era London, the film begins with Detective Sherlock Holmes and his partner/doctor/comic foil Watson on their supposed last case together, as they capture Lord Blackwood, played by Mark Strong. It's their last case, because Watson plans to marry and move out, leaving Holmes to himself.

    Dr. John Watson: [to Holmes as he guzzles a liquid] You do know what your are drinking is meant for eye surgery?

    Three months later, as Blackwood is to be executed for his crimes, we find Holmes being his reclusive self, smoking his opium, doing some part time boxing, and experimenting alone in his room. Things become more complicated as an old flame/con artist, Irene Adler played by Rachel McAdams, steps back into his life with a job. This job only leads to more trouble, as the presumed dead from hanging Blackwood is found to have risen from the grave. Now, with the stalwart Watson reluctantly at Holmes' side, the two continue their work together to hopefully stop Blackwood from whatever nefarious plans he may have.

    Sherlock Holmes: Watson...what have you done?

    One of the best aspects of this film is how closely Robert Downey Jr. resembles the way in which the Holmes character was written by Doyle. Getting away from the more classical version portrayed by older incarnations such as Basil Rathbone, this Holmes is very much the reclusive, neurotic, loner who's genius level of detection mixed with his drug use as well as physical ability all play their parts to make him this era's Batman (yes, I brought it back to Batman, but that will play a part later in this review). Adding to this new film version of Holmes is Jude Law as Watson, again not the classical bumbling Watson, but an experienced field surgeon, who has seen his share of battles. The two characters are well represented, and the chemistry between them is truly the heart of this film. Their banter is a great joy to see, showing the true bromance that is present within the dynamic of this relationship.

    Sherlock Holmes: You've never complained about my methods before.
    Dr. John Watson: I've never complained! When have I ever complained about you practicing the violin at three in the morning, or your mess? Your general lack of hygiene or the fact that you steal my clothes?
    Sherlock Holmes: We have a barter system.

    Adding to the work of these performers is the direction by Guy Ritchie. Finally, Ritchie is given the right sandbox to play in. After directing 'Lock, Stock' and 'Snatch', only to marry Madonna and make two disastrous films, producer Joel Silver found him and gave him a shot, resulting in his low key comeback that was RocknRolla. Now, finally realizing how great of a visual director he can be, someone gave him the chance to not write another gangster comedy, but instead direct a genre film of sorts. Rightfully, all has worked out, as the film is set in Victorian times, but has an updated feel to it all. Ritchie brings in his use of rapid fire editing and constantly fun use of slo mo to the proceedings. as well as some standout ideas for key sequences, that certainly lend itself to a watchable good time. The whole tone of the film has the same sort of fun feel that films like 'The Mask of Zorro' and 'Casino Royal' had.

    Bringing it back to Batman (I said it'd come up again) a lot of the plotting seems to resemble 'Batman Begins' in a way. While certainly not an origin story (and not nearly as serious) the multiple characters, plot strands, story devices, all while maintaining focus on one main character in a rebooted version certainly made me consider the similarities. That being said, both in 'Begins' and here do the female characters not add a whole lot. Not to say McAdams isn't all kinds of sexy/cute as well as effective as an actress, its just to say that the Holmes/Watson dynamic is much more entertaining, as is Wayne/Alfred. While on the subject of supporting cast, Mark Strong doesn't get a whole lot to work with as Blackwood, but since I dig Strong in just about anything he's in, I was just happy to see him here (as well as a name on the poster to help sell the film).

    Other minor quibbles I have fall to the length of the film, which is a bit too long, at a little over two hours. Ritchie's strengths visually certainly don't help when connecting sequences don't have the same pull. That being said, despite the marketing showing off how big and flashy this new version of a Sherlock Holmes film is, there isn't much 'action.' There are some main set pieces for sure, but this blockbuster studio film, as I have mentioned, does do justice to the Doyle stories, striking a fine balance between its comedy/adventure and its character story/detective aspects.

    Saving the best for last, I was truly impressed with Hans Zimmer's score on this film. Zimmer, who also did fine work on 'Begins' and 'The Dark Knight' (See, I can keep bringing it back to Batman!), is certainly not slumming it here, creating a wonderful new theme for a character that I certainly want to see follow up films for (and with setups for Holmes' nemesis Prof. Moriarty in place, I'm all set for it).

    A lot of fun to be had here.

    Dr. John Watson: Holmes, does your depravity know no bounds?
    Sherlock Holmes: No.
  • AgentLexi2132
    December 26, 2009
    AgentLexi2132
    ''You've never complained about my methods before.''

    Detective Sherlock Holmes and his stalwart partner Watson engage in a battle of wits and brawn with a nemesis whose plot is a threat to all of England.

    Robert Downey Jr.: Sherlock Holmes

    I love Robert Downey J...( read more)r.; witty, funny and entertaining in his roles he takes on. Unfortunately, his character, though named after the Sherlock Homes invented by Arthur Conan Doyle, has almost nothing in common with his literary ancestor. This film's Holmes is a hyper-kinetic pugilist who excels at swinging hand to hand weaponry/guns/sticks, swan-diving into the Thames from the commons, and leaping about city buildings in a manner reminiscent of Prince of Persia.


    Robert Downey Jr. read many Sherlock Holmes stories and watched The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes(1984) by Granada Television (starring Jeremy Brett) in order to learn more about the character. I do believe he should of given it more attention considering the end result.
    The hyper-real Victorian London of the film's exterior shots has a very similar CGI feel to it; one amplified when it vividly depicts the Tower of London on the wrong side of the Thames, among other gaffes.
    The set for Sherlock Holmes's home in this film was previously used as Sirius Black's home in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix(2007).
    Also while filming a fight scene, Robert Maillet accidentally knocked out Robert Downey Jr.

    Where is the cerebral intensity in Sherlock Holmes?, Where is the vibrant emotion?; Essential qualities to Holmes as an intelligent gentleman detective are sadly missing. A pipe appears precisely three times (Although this isn't the pipe Holmes smokes in the book), and a cigar but unsmoked. Jude Law's Doctor Watson shows little affection for or understanding of his friend Holmes and their little segments of stage business evoke nothing of the bond and chemistry essential between the two companions.
    Other cast members include Rachel McAdams, Mark Strong ( who would of made a better Holmes), and Eddie Marsan.

    Having said this; If a steam-punk action-adventure film that's built around three or four elaborate chase sequences appeals, Sherlock Holmes may be a fun way to spend an afternoon.
    It's certainly a decent popcorn flick. Although if anyone who knows anything about, or cares very much for, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's immortal character they would be better off staying home and reading the book instead of this satirical screen incarnation.

    So Guy Ritchie next time you make a film either cast an English hero for an English literary hero. Mark Strong being relegated to the villain here in itself is a crime, as is Jude Law as Watson. Next time make the sequel to Rocknrolla and leave Sherlock Holmes alone; The damage is extensive enough after this.
    This is not elementary my dear Guy Ritchie...more Guy Fawkes abashment, disaster and flames for Sir Arthur Conan Doyle whom is crying in heaven no doubt.
  • stopitgoaway
    December 26, 2009
    stopitgoaway
    Sherlock Holmes
    Expected: 20 November
    Guy Ritchie attempts to re-invent Arthur Conan Doyle?s detective hero in the guise of Robert Downey Jr. Based on a new comic book take written by Lionel Wigram, the movie will also feature Jude Law as Dr Watson. Ritchie promises a brawnier, m...( read more)ore action-packed version of Holmes in this new film.

    Sherlock Holmes is a tricky subject for modern audiences. His cerebral characteristics are, if anything, over-familiar yet if changed too much there is little point in doing the character at all. Guy Ritchie has gone for Holmes as jokey and slightly camp action hero with Downey giving an energetic (if anything too energetic) performance. Whereas in 'Iron Man', Downey perfectly caught the dry decadence of the character, here he plays Holmes as a volatile modern eccentric who seems to spend most of his time sleeping on the floor, jumping around and trying to trick Watson (Jude Law) out of getting married. It isn't enough to make us care about the character, perhaps because he doesn't convincingly seem to care about anything very much himself. In contrast Jude Law plays Watson commendably straight, again as a man of action (though he doesn't have enough to do) and there is a good villain in Mark Strong as an aspiring black magician. The film has quite a look to it and a fast pace but, thanks to the comedic tone, nothing ever seems to be at risk. Even one of the best action sequences (in which Watson appears to be killed) ends not with a bang but a line of dialogue "Watson's alive", which feels oddly like a cop-out.

    As for the trade-mark Holmesian deduction, it is derisory. Indeed it typifies the whole problem with this venture in that for something supposed be based on wit, it isn't nearly witty enough. For example Holmes concludes instantly that one character is a Professor because he sees two chalk-marks on his clothes. Why not a school teacher, a surveyor or a pavement artist? Given such low calibre stuff, it's easy to forget the character in the books had flashes of genuine brilliance. Guy Ritchie fans will obviously lap this up, his trade-marks are all here but I'm guessing 'Iron Man'-type success is a very distant hope
    Look out for: Rocknrolla?s Mark Strong as Lord Blackwood, one of Holmes? enemies.
  • josiahguile
    December 27, 2009
    josiahguile
    This was a FUN movie in every sense of the word. Which is a bit of a disappointment considering it's a Guy Ritchie film. There was very little "Guy Ritchie" in this film. But for me that was OK though. I was expecting Guy Ritchie "Lite" if you know what I mean. Guy Ritchie "does ...( read more)Hollywood" for lack of a better term. Guy Ritchie aside this movie was great! I felt that RDJ and Jude Law fit together very nicely. Rachel McAdams was a little off at times, but not enough to detract. And Mark Strong was solid like always (I LOVE this guy).

    More more of an action movie then I was expecting, Like summer blockbuster action movie almost. In fact this film would have been better suited for the summer time. But it was a nice Christmas treat.

    There was quite a bit of CGI in this film, and most of it worked but honestly Avatar has ruined me. Some scenes here are extremely beautiful in a very stylized way but are very clearly "not real". So despite the beauty or effectiveness of a shot I was never actually convinced that what I was looking at (Sets, Backgrounds, effects, etc.) was real. Now this is usually the case, But the last two trips I've made to the theater have been to see Avatar in 3D and each time I succumb to the out-of-body experience James Cameron's billion dollars has provided for me.

    I really am looking forward to a franchise despite my disappointment with Hollywood's lack of originality these days. This would be a franchise I could really get behind. Especially if they gave the directors chair to a new director for each installment. This type of story and characters I feel could really benefit from multiple visions.

    I'm giving it 3 1/2 stars because though I enjoyed the film, I know I would have enjoyed it much much more if Ritchie would have had more control to infuse the film with his extremely unique and creative style of storytelling.

    The irony is that so many Hollywood directors try hard to create movies so blatantly inspired by Guy Ritchie's style. Now here we have Guy Ritchie (for dozens of political/financial reasons I'm sure) trying so blatantly hard to create a "Hollywood", studio film. The punchline is that he completely pulled it off.

    This movie isn't going to "change your life!!!" or cinema for that matter but it's not trying to. If you think you would enjoy a fun, fresh, new, but respectful, Sherlock Holmes movie then see this and you will not be disappointed.
  • luismiguelr
    December 27, 2009
    luismiguelr
    Sounds interesting the synopsis I really want to see it
  • kissara1
    December 27, 2009
    kissara1
    mmmmm chbab chwiya.......aya viva l'Algeria
    ro7a tranko ga3 kima dertou ...mdr
  • jnbruno
    December 27, 2009
    jnbruno
    Another holmes story ... not very tempting
  • soonhuiker2000
    December 27, 2009
    soonhuiker2000
    its funny with action!

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Critic Reviews

December 25, 2009
Colin Covert, The Minneapolis Star Tribune

This is a swashbuckling, pratfalling romp designed to make cerebral Holmes purists drop their monocles into their teacups. full review

December 24, 2009
Moira MacDonald, Seattle Times

Put away your period-movie expectations and you just might have a lot of fun. What makes this movie work is actually something very old-fashioned: movie-star chemistry. full review

December 24, 2009
Liam Lacey, Globe and Mail

Guy Ritchie's Holmes reboot feels both too complicated and too elementary, dear Watson. full review

December 24, 2009
Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

The less I thought about Sherlock Holmes, the more I liked Sherlock Holmes. full review

December 23, 2009
Claudia Puig, USA Today

Old London, achieved via superb visual effects, is breathtaking in its grimy verisimilitude. And Downey is charming. But his world is jarringly frenetic, in the manner of most Ritchie films. full review

December 23, 2009
Stephanie Zacharek, Salon.com

It's hard to get too bent out of shape about Sherlock Holmes, partly because the actors seem to take so much pleasure in the act of giving us a crazy spectacle. full review

December 23, 2009
Joe Morgenstern, Wall Street Journal

The movie as a whole is clever, and conspicuously overwrought. But Mr. Downey's performance is elegantly wrought; he's as quick-witted as his legendary character. full review

December 22, 2009
Armond White, The New York Press

So grim and unappealing it sours the movie-watching experience. full review

December 22, 2009
Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

Ritchie is all about the whooshing and headbanging, leaving no space between Holmes' words to savor their meaning. Downey is irresistible. The movie, not so much. full review

December 22, 2009
Nick Schager, Lessons of Darkness

Whiplash quick and twice as exciting. full review

View more Sherlock Holmes reviews at RottenTomatoes.com

Comments

  • gerardo83
    December 26, 2009
    gerardo83
    eh. i was entertained. Guy has done better films. Bobby is good. Rachel sucked. the editing needed some work or better detail. i give it a shaky 7 of 10
  • meghan6226
    December 26, 2009
    meghan6226
    haha me nd my friend made up this thing months ago that i was sherlock nd he was watson. wen we heard that ther was a new Sherlock movie coming out we agreed that we HAD ta se it lol. we're seein it 2morro, looks really good =D
  • adecute2005
    December 24, 2009
    adecute2005
    Great Movie!
    Coach Purses
  • fatoshleo
    November 26, 2009
    fatoshleo
    i always wanted to see more skin of robert downey..haha
  • lilifarkas
    November 6, 2009
    lilifarkas
    Oh my God I must see this movie!!!I LUV ROBERT DOWNEY JR.!!!

    But it's coming out in December when my Movie shedule is totally full :S But still I have to SEE IT!!!
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  • Fun Fact:
    Colin Farrell was originally in talks to play Watson.
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