It's not often I watch something and think "I Iove this!" but this, I did. I didn't want it to end. So much so that I bought the DVD and am re-watching, hence the post. Re-worked into the 21st century, it shows Holmes, conceited, and in his own words "a high functioning sociopath", but this time with a sense of humour and all the technology this century can provide.
The casting (at first on paper a little unexpected) is a triumph. Benedict Cumberbatch, (above) parchment skinned, darkened hair and translucent eyes has an angular other-worldliness that is as fascinating as it is faintly menacing. The bumbling side-kick is gone and in his place Martin Freeman (below) imbues Watson with a strength, dignity and likeability that proves the perfect foil for Holmes.
Andrew Scott (below) is a mercurial Moriarty, the "consulting criminal" to Sherlock's "consulting detective", whose sociopathy exceeds even Holmes. The sense of unease when he appears on screen pervades throughout. There are references aplenty to the original texts and it shows London in 2010 has the darkness and menace of the Victorian era. This is a thrill ride of a programme - watch it.
