Alan Marshal, Anthony Kemble-Cooper, Arthur Hohl, Basil Rathbone, E.E. Clive ...( see more  see more... ) , Frank Dawson , George Regas , George Zucco , Henry Stephenson , Holmes Herbert , Ida Lupino , Mary Forbes , Mary Gordon , May Beatty , Nigel Bruce , Peter Willes , Terry Kilburn , William Austin

One of the most engaging features from 20th Century Fox's Holmes series, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is also of historical interest as it based on a hugely popular, early 20th century stage play...( read more  read more... ) written by and starring William Gillette. Basil Rathbone cuts a fine figure as the lean, hawkish Great Detective, drawn into a complicated conspiracy by fiendish Dr. Moriarty (George Zucco) to distract Holmes while quietly preparing to steal the Crown Jewels. Nigel Bruce is on board as a buffoonish Dr. Watson, and British-born Ida Lupino is very good, and quite gorgeous, as a young woman who may be the target of a family curse. True-blue Sherlockians know that very little of Gillette's tale, and next to nothing about Zucco's or Bruce's performances, have anything to do with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's sacred canon. Still, this is a handsome production to enjoy on its own terms. --Tom Keogh

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75% liked it

1,967 ratings

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Directed by: Alfred L. Werker

Release Date: September 1, 1939

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DVD Release Date: April 27, 2004

Stats: 77 reviews

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Flixster Reviews (77)


  • February 19, 2007
    This movie was old when I saw it back in the late 60's.
    Classic line: "Elementary, my dear Watson."
  • June 5, 2006
    "Elementary, my dear Watson."
  • September 4, 2009
    One of the best of the Sherlock Holmes film series, Basil Rathbone makes such a perfect Holmes. Excellent atmosphere, superb supporting cast and a fine production. Suspenseful and always interesting.
  • January 10, 2009
    I defy anyone not to simply love these films and this one is a real gem. The production value alone makes this a joy coupled with great acting and directing. Rathbone IS Holmes who simply makes every scene he is in.
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  • February 15, 2008
    These are great tales and I've spent my younger years reading the books cover to cover. now that they're put to the screen I'm in heaven.
  • November 7, 2007
    The fabulous team Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, paired with Ida Lupino, makes a great adventure indeed!
  • August 6, 2007
    Rathbone singing 'I Do Like To Be Beside the Seaside' is not to be missed. I think one of only two period/costume Rathbone Holmes films.
  • July 19, 2007
    All CLASSICS are GOOD
  • June 23, 2007
    A masterpiece above that of all else. Basil Rathbone had the opportunity to have tea and wine with me during the revolution, and we discussed how I should be portrayed on screen. He did an astounding job.

    One of the greatest pictures of all time.

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The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes Trivia


  • Top 100 Movie Quotes Which 1939 movie has the quote "Elementary, my dear Watson."?   Answer »
  • In The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, Basil Rathbone's sleuth disguises himself as a music hall artiste. Which song does he perform?  Answer »

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