Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows - Review
Guy Ritchie has done it again with another visually stimulating piece of movie making. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows is the highly anticipated sequel to the 2009 edition of the franchise Sherlock Holmes. Based on the stories written by the ingenious Sir Arthur Conan Doyle from 1887-1904, the movie follows the adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson as they are hot on the trail of their infamous nemesis Professor James Moriarty. The trail leads them across Europe as we discover that Holmes' genius analytical mind may have met its match as he mysteriously seems to always be one step behind.
Guy Ritchie's unique perspective takes us on a ride that is equally thrilling as it is entertaining. The character of Sherlock Holmes played by Robert Downey Jr. is a stand out performance and gives the film its momentum. His highly humorous anecdotes and witty banter with Watson make the movie what it is. Holmes' on screen chemistry with Dr. Watson, played by Jude Law, is extremely appealing to the audience which makes Jude Law an essential part of the duo. The spontaneous dialogue between the characters is of clear credit to Guy Ritchie's film making abilities and the humour is instantaneously recognisable as his signature even though his film making style has evolved over time.
Recognition must be given to the post production team, as the action sequences are of epic proportions and visually stunning. This assists with the seamless flow of the movie and must be acknowledged as a brilliant editing achievement.
It is nice to see Rachel McAdams making a cameo, reprising her role as Irene Adler, which assists with the continuity between the two films. However Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows stands in its own right as a great film without necessarily requiring the audience to see the first movie.
Noomi Rapace's performance as Madam Simza Heron is unfortunately forgettable considering that she is the leading lady. This may be a result of sharing the screen with the larger than life characters of Holmes and Watson which can be seen as giving the movie an element of contrast. However, it should be noted that Rachel McAdams' brief appearance seems to be much more memorable despite relinquishing her leading lady status.
Jared Harris as Professor Moriarty is not what I would have expected to come off Guy Ritchie's casting couch, though credit must be given to his performance as he is able to share the screen with Robert Downey Jr. effectively enough. Stephen Fry also makes an unforgettable appearance as Sherlock's older brother.
Overall the film is a masterpiece of editing and post production, led by a masterful script directed under Guy Ritchie. Mind blowing visuals during its action sequences and intricately complicated dialogue that flows seamlessly with the brilliant performances of Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law make this movie stimulating on both the eyes and the mind. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows is a must see this January 2012.
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