Arthur Conan Doyles well-revered character Sherlock Holmes has been given the big and small screen treatment countless times, which means his greatest adversary, the wicked Moriarty has also been subject to the same treatment. "Every fairytale needs a good old-fashioned villain. You need me, or you're nothing." In the BBCs latest offering, James Moriarty has been brought to life by Andrew Scott, who nails the role by ushering in a new brand of wicked into the rivalry between he and Sherlock. Eschewing the typical villainous role, in this incarnation, hes updated to a consulting criminal - a genius twist in his backstory. While Sherlock and Watson might have the bond of friendship, the screen lights up when the detective is faced with his foe. In part, the magnetic charisma of Moriarty comes from his fleeting appearances. His role is small, but showy. Their interactions highlight the mans scheming ways beneath a sinister grin that hints at more mayhem to come. Hes a bad guy you cannot take your eyes from.
Gem is a freelance writer, musician and librarian.
Her hobbies include: recreating movie death scenes from LEGO, concocting new types of bird suet cakes, walking on fresh snow and playing the glockenspiel - all at the same time.
