Over the past few decades, there have been many reincarnations of Sherlock Holmes. Benedict Cumberbatch has managed to create an updated, classy Mr. Holmes for this century.
The story is the same as it has always been in the past. Sherlock Holmes is the private, mysterious detective who has an unrealistic ability to solve any crime. According to the official show website, Holmes observes everything. After he eliminates the impossible, the only option left must be the truth. The man is played by Benedict Cumberbatch, who became known for his roles in “War Horse” and the latest “Star Trek.” The show’s co-creator, Steven Moffat, said Cumberbatch, “looked the part.” Fans agree that Cumberbatch was destined to play this role. One fan from an online forum stated, “From the curly hair to the deep voice, this man is the definition of Sherlock Holmes.
There is still one companion who always accompanies the genius detective. These two are even roommates. Dr. John Watson was a military doctor, but retired after Afghanistan. In the episode “A Study in Pink,” Sherlock asks “You miss it, don’t you?” (referring to the war, and just being occupied in general.) Watson did not hesitate to agree. Though he always denies it, Sherlock knows he likes having a helper, and buddy, around.
“Sherlock” has become a worldwide phenomenon. The pilot episode aired in 2010, and the second season aired in 2012. The show went on a two year hiatus because the main stars had very difficult movie schedules. Cumberbatch was working on the “Star Trek” movies, while Martin Freeman (Watson) starred in “The Hobbit.” In England, on the first day of 2014, the show was revived. Not only is this show popular in Europe, but it is extremely popular in China. In Chinese blogs dedicated to the show, the main star is referred to as Curly Fu. The “Curly” comes from his undeniably curly hair, and “Fu” is the shortened translation of his last name. In America, fans were waiting until Jan. 19 for the season three premiere to air. Quotes and screenshots are plastered all over social media, so many of the plot twists are no longer a surprise. However, the fans still were very excited to watch this detective work his magic yet again.
The show is genuinely engaging. Yes, it is a show about murders, but there is also a playful side. Sherlock’s sass and sarcasm supply many smirks and giggles. Watson is usually the one who is picked on, but it is all for fun. Something that sparks interest is the personality of each character. Some shows such as “Law and Order” have very little personality. In “Sherlock,” there are many different types of people. There is the hero, the killer, the companion, and of course, the girl. The show is appealing to teenagers because of the attractive star, and it is not as serious as the “Law and Order” and “NCIS” series. Here in the states, “Sherlock” plays on PBS under the title “Masterpiece Mystery” on Sundays at 10.
