Back in 1893 and before Twitter and blogs, when Sir Arthur Conan Doyle tried to kill off the famous detective, the fans would not allow it, and demanded a sequel, or another "season". Since then, the British genius took on many forms, but the latest BBC adaptation is the one people just can't get enough of (ironically enough). Led on by the quick and witty writings of Steven Moffat (who's in charge of Doctor Who, as of series 5), the new adaptation of Holmes simply known as Sherlock is set in modern times. The place is still 221B Backer Street, with all of the major main characters, but the rhythm is more in tune with the Facebook generation. Holmes' investigations are documented by his flatmate/best friend/assistant (and love interest?) Dr. John Watson, using his blog. This blog also generates most of Sherlock's work and media buzz. Other few contemporary twists are the use of nicotine patches, instead of a pipe, and introducing the infamous hat in order to hide away from the paparazzi. The show took a new approach in visualizing the detective's thinking. Whenever Sherlock explains how he figured something out (or "showing off", as Watson calls it), the camera moves quickly between pieces of evidence, memories and words popping on the screen. The same goes for text messages. In general, the plot moves very fast, as if to keep up with Sherlock's rapid mind. This brilliant behind the scenes work, is paired with some serious on-screen talent. Benedict Cumberbatch, according to The Guardian, "has a reputation for playing odd, brilliant men very well, and his Holmes is cold, techie, slightly Aspergers-ish". Dr. Watson is his perfect opposite and other half, played by no other than Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman). Holmes' brother, no less genius or Aspergers-ish is played by Mark Gatiss (who co-writes the show with Moffat) and Holmes' nemesis, Jim Morirarty, played by BAFTA award winner Andrew Scott. All of that makes the three 90-minute episodes per season well worth seeing. Even if we have to wait a year or two in between.
Music lover, TV watcher, horror movies buff, writer, traveler, super groupie, a Whovian with a Journalism BA. Lives in Israel, but her heart resides in Brooklyn & her backpack smells like Berlin. Follow her on Twitter (@BelleBackstage) and/or Instagram (@bellebackstage). There's a cookie in it for you.
