It seems there has been a resurgence of interest in the adventures of Sherlock Holmes, starting with Guy Ritchie stylishly breathing new life into the great detective followed by this modern adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s introductory novel A Study in Scarlett, by Steven Moffat (Doctor Who) and co-created with fellow Who writer Mark Gatiss, which premiered on Sunday 25th July 2010 on BBC One.
Suicides and Introductions
The city of London is plagued by a series of seemingly unrelated suicides, and despite the best efforts of the police in denying any foul play, the media and the public suspect otherwise. When the latest victim leaves a message at the scene, a now desperate Inspector Lestrade (Rupert Graves) finally calls in the services of Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) in the hopes of solving this grisly mystery, much to the dismay of his colleagues who believe him to be a psychopath getting off on the macabre.
Meanwhile, having returned from service in Afghanistan where he was wounded, Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman, The Office, Love Actually) is introduced to Holmes via a mutual friend. Holmes quickly offers the spare room at 221b Baker Street to the troubled war veteran, and before he even has the chance to settle in, whisks his new acquaintance to the fresh crime scene. Soon unbeknownst to either one, the two men form an instant bond and mutual determination to solve the mystery and catch the killer before he/she choose their next victim.
Loyal to Source
Composing the script for this adaptation may at first seem simple enough given that much of its source, the original novel, easily transcends to present day. The trick, however, is in carrying over Holmes’ sharp observations, as displayed early into this episode in how he deduces Watson’s military service. Die hard Sherlock fans may have reacted in knee jerk fashion to the very notion of their hero roaming the streets of modern day London, yet Moffat’s energetic script has lost none of the intrigue, pace or even eloquence of the original story.
The lines convey more of the feel of Victorian dialogue with only current references such as the revelation concerning Watson’s sibling reeling the viewer back to the present. The intensely packed script moves at a frenetic pace, without stopping for air, making the 90-minute running time seem much shorter, essentially keeping the viewer engaged in the unfolding events, only to release them at the end. Whilst the setting is modern day, the overall feel of the script and visuals invoke an atmosphere of Victorian times, adding to the enjoyment of the story as well as a relieved sense of loyalty to the original source.
A Study in Character
Adapting the story may have been a chore; however, the real challenge presented to Moffat must have been in bringing the Holmes into the 21st century. Moffat’s talent as a writer in creating the modern Holmes is matched only by Cumerbatch’s eccentric and highly charged performance. Character and actor alike both ooze charisma by the bucket loads, dominating every scene they inhabit. Cumberbatch delivers his complex lines of observations and logical deductions as if they were his own and with impeccable timing.
In contrast, however, Freeman’s portrayal of Watson, whilst equally engaging, is at times more reserved with infrequent bursts of energy. Freeman’s softly voiced inquisitions juxtaposed with some verbal and physical leaps of action at first lead one to believe him playing second fiddle to the genius sleuth but thankfully proves to be a red herring. The performance and characterisation are a perfect symmetry to Cumberbatch’s Holmes, leaving Freeman’s comedic history in the past. Together, the two men exude a very natural and believable chemistry.
Graves as the struggling Lestrade provides adequate support, as do the rest of the supporting cast; however, a nod should be given to Una Stubbs, who is excellent as Mrs Hudson, Holmes’ long suffering landlady, alleviating the tension and pace with some well timed and subtle comic relief.
A Modern Victorian Mystery
Sherlock, simply put, is a thrilling cerebral ride that despite seeming as if it is over before it started makes for highly engaging and satisfying viewing. Sherlock Holmes fans need not fear disappointment, as with the combination of the talents of Steven Moffat and an inspired charismatic cast one is left with a whetted appetite for more to come. The show currently airs on Sunday evenings at 9pm with previous episodes available on BBC iPlayer.
Ramon Youseph - An English Graduate with Honours, Ramon lives and works in Bristol, a city in the South West of England, where he juggles a full time job ...
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