5. It Has Two Mega Stars As The Leads
From a commercial point of view, season 3 should be the most successful yet. Benedict Cumberbatch has just been voted the sexiest man alive, and Martin Freeman is globally recognised as Bilbo Baggins. As such the safety of the show is secured by the rising reputations of these two supremely talented actors. And they are talented. Benedict Cumberbatch has won a Critic's Choice Award and been nominated for a Golden Globe for his portrayal of Sherlock; and rightly so. His Holmes is a study in methodological intelligence, narcissism and subtle eccentricity. The actor never let the audience forget how brilliant the character is, yet isn't afraid to present his unintentional callousness either. Cumberbatch also manages to show the unique confidence that Sherlock has in his own abilities, and it's powerful allure. Martin Freeman on the other hand has won a BAFTA for his role as Dr John Watson, and the part also brought him to the attention of Peter Jackson. Freeman is a highly skilled comedic actor, who has a knack for presenting ordinary reactions to extraordinary events in a humorous manner. This is a trait that allows his Watson to be the perfect foil for Cumberbatch's more serious Sherlock. However Freeman is also able to take this relatability and utilise it to deadly effect. The season 2 finale opens with a truly heart wrenching discussion between John and a psychiatrist regarding the Reichenbach incident, and Freeman's understated grief makes the scene all the more tragic. As John is going to be getting even more dramatic material this year, Freeman's accessibility will be a vital part of season 3.