Sherlock Holmes (2009)

I confess, I actually saw this movie twice in theaters--I thought it was THAT good.

Just when we think Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes has faded away, being over 20 years since his last U.S. theatrical appearance, the famous detective emerges again in Guy Ritchie's brand-new, original Holmes adventure.

At the start of the film, Holmes and his newly-engaged companion Dr. Watson have successfully closed another case--the "sorcerer" Lord Blackwood has been caught and punished for using his mysterious dark power in an attempt to rule London--or so they think. When Lord Blackwood mysteriously returns and continues his killing spree, Holmes and Watson are back on the case in an endeavor to track down Lord Blackwood and prevent his disastrous scheme from threatening all of England.

While this particular story is not much of a "whodunit," but more of a "howdunit," the excitement of unraveling the mysteries surrounding Lord Blackwood still manages to be thrilling. The plot is fast-paced and suspenseful, but not difficult to follow. The flashbacks throughout the movie recap important events and people, and make it incredibly easy to understand the story.

I felt the acting was outstanding--all of the actors played their part immensely well, and Robert Downey Jr. was especially true to the character of Holmes, including the side that is often not portrayed, right down to his violin-plucking and drug-use. While many picture Holmes more along the lines of a serious gentleman, Downey's interpretation of a more rough, yet still sharp and clever Holmes is an enjoyable and interesting approach to this character. Other characters that are found in Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's adventures also reappear in this film, including Dr. Watson (Jude Law), Irene Adler (Rachel McAdams), Mary Morstan (Kelly Reilly), and even Holmes' arch nemesis, Professor Moriarty. All of these supporting characters were portrayed extremely well, and the relationship between Holmes and Dr. Watson as a hilarious "bromance" provides comic relief throughout the entire film.

This PG-13 film is reasonably family-friendly, save for some violence and a few scary images. The period setting, fast-paced plot, and superb acting provide a wonderfully entertaining movie experience. I definitely recommend seeing this film. I know I will be watching it a few more times as I wait for the possible sequel.

-Lindsay