Sherlock Holmes (Guy Ritchie) - 2009

Nineteenth century London is a dark and dirty place.  Robert Downey Jr. is certainly not a neat as Basil Rathbone (1892-1967) but he definitely gets the job done.  Doctor Watson (Jude Law) wants to wed the fair Mary (Kelly Reilly) but Holmes wants him to continue playing Robin to his Batman.  Both team with the double-agent (Rachel McAdams) to match wits with the evil Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong) and his band of religious nuts.  Blackwood is the prototypical clever thug bent on world domination (or at least England and the colonies).

This high-tech Sherlock is just as clever and much more physical than old Basil.  However, he tends to get lost in his curiosities to the detriment of his wealth and general hygiene.  The movie is fast-paced and mostly believable.  The sets and models are amazing.  Be prepared to go back in time with Mr. Ritchie's vision.  And I thought that Madonna had the brains in that family.  Be sure to stay for the artwork and music that accompany the credits.  Bring on the invisible Professor Moriarty for Sherlock Returns! [JAM 1/5/2009]