Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

(Guy Ritchie, 2011)

Rating: 4/5

Reviewed by Dave Lancaster

Summary: 'Sherlock 2' is great fun, boasting increased action and, more importantly, extra chemistry between the perfectly cast Robert Downey Jr and Jude Law.
 

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'Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows' follows the typical studio sequel plan of presenting the next chapter more like a new episode of a hit TV series. Thankfully instead of just upping the action to gloss over a rushed script, 'Sherlock 2' offers an intriguing set of plot revelations and lashings of charming scenes that favour character chemistry.

Its self contained narrative this time sees Holmes and Watson tackle Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's greatest nemesis creation - the equally intelligent and cunning Professor Moriarty (Jared Harris).

The twisting nature of Moriarty's plot isn't important. More engaging is how Holmes (Downey Jr) must up his game and acknowledge that he needs to drag his newly married assistant Watson (Jude Law) along for the ride.

Director Guy Ritchie, working from a blistering script from couple Michele and Kieran Mulroney, plays these larger than life characters off each other like 'Withnail & I' with delightful results.

As wonderfully cast as they are, Stephen Fry (as Holmes' brother Mycroft) and original 'Girl With the Dragon Tattoo' Noomi Rapace (as a gypsy femme fatale) take a backseat to the duo.

What does break through is Jared Harris as Moriarty - his slow grace befitting his icy exterior which masks a brilliant mind. His villain is far more memorable than Mark Strong's in the first film.

Indeed, the whole film is more memorable - Ritchie thrusts it towards his audience with his typically brash style. Expect more slow motion, explosions, rapid exchanges and more heart. Ritchie is a decidedly modern filmmaker, and he shows no sign of being nostalgic here, instead pushing forward with a contemporary action piece that happens to be in costume. The formula laid down so well in the first film hasn't dried up yet. In fact it's found its stride.

Check out trailers and stills from 'Sherlock Holmes: A Game of shadows' right here at Cinemas Online.

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