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Rating:  -
You don't have to be a great mystery enthusiast, nor a lover of crime drama, nor have anything except a sense of adventure and an enjoyment of great acting to love this Sherlock Holmes series. It is not often anymore in today's world that a character seen on television or in the movies can serve as a role model for young minds, but with his emphasis on brains winning where brawn fails, Holmes shows that study and observation and careful deduction can score a much higher reward than bullying and bravado. And Holmes does face his share of bullies and brutes who would like to stop him. With contempt for those who threaten him and courage in the face of vicious thugs who stalk the night, Holmes pursues answers to horrific crimes by taking avenues that others would not dare to follow. From the intimate corners of lavish estates and palaces to the grimiest back alley hell holes he tracks down those who believe they have gotten away with the perfect crime. Always impeccably groomed and handsomely attired, the limber and elegant figure of the man is no slouch when it comes to the unpleasant task of having to dispense with a brute in direct confrontation. Well schooled in self defense, boxing, fencing, and physically energetic, thugs who think they can simply run roughshod over Holmes are suprised to find themselves flat on their backs after trying to assault him. But this is not the way he prefers to resolve matters, nor does he often need to resort to using a revolver, he does not normally carry one, though he shows he will readily do so if the pursuit requires it.
The supreme confidence he has in his own resourcefulness coupled with obvious delight he takes in putting sadistic and sinister villains behind bars makes Holmes a figure who defies any sort of commonplace spotlight in the pantheon of the great heroic figures of literature. The acting is brilliant. Though typically his face is the model of placid contemplation, as situations change you see the subtle moods change in his facial features clearly indicating his anger, contempt, concern, shock or mirth but never too much. Jeremy Brett plays the role with humor and graceful, fluid understated changes in his moods. Maintaining control of his emotions most of the time, Holmes clearly has very little patience when it comes to those who do not come to the point and present the facts. He also has little patience for idle time. His mind is busy and loves a challenge, he often laments of there being no suitable challenge to occupy his time. Though he has a standard fee for his services as a private detective, he will often dismiss his fee if he finds a cause sufficient to pursue despite a client's lack of funds. There is not a single drama in the set that should be missed. The video is crisp and brilliant to watch, the audio is fine and the music fits the mood of the series. The period set pieces are also amazing to behold in themselves, a great recreation of a time out of history. Well worth the investment.
- Mike S.
Rating: -
Other reviews have remarked on the choice of stories, on how well Jeremy Brett portrays Holmes, on the faithfulness to the Conan Doyle stories, etc. I cannot add much more to their praises. Instead, it might be useful to write a review for the non-Holmes fan, someone with only a passing interest, or one who hasn't read the stories. As I have only read the stories once, and then several years ago, I think I'm in a good position to comment in this way.
Be assured that no pre-knowledge is required to enjoy this set. The Holmes stories are simple - only two main characters (and only a few recurring peripheral characters - e.g. Holmes's landlady and brother). Although some of the stories may be a little absurd, they are all well-acted and engrossing. Most welcome is the feel of the Victorian England in which Holmes and Watson live: Watson is the proud Englishman, having served his country in its colonial wars, and making no apologies for it. Holmes is somewhat more introspective - he can see the injustices of the Industrial Revolution and the futility of war, but he is still deeply English and cannot fathom that a person from any other country could be as useful as he. One might argue that the casual opium use (by Holmes) is overstated, but it is certainly part of the manic-depressive character of Holmes.
What is most striking about the shows, however, is Brett's performance. The quirks and mannerisms he creates makes Holmes a living, 3-D character. Just his performance is so engaging that you lose yourself in the story even though an hour-long show may have been adapted from a mere 3- or 4-page story. It's never dull, even when the plot moves slowly, which is a credit to the screenwriters as well. All-in-all a very enjoyable series.
Rating:  -
Jeremy Brett is the definitive Sherlock...what more could be written about his portrayal. Everyone needs this complete collection in their movie library.
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Starring the Sherlock Holmes of this generation, it is well worth the money. Get the complete series.
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Although I prefer Edward Harwicke as Watson, these stories with David Burke as Watson are some of the best episodes available in my opinion. All Sherlock Holmes tales with Jeremy Brett are top notch performances. You won't be disappointed.
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