I watched a stunning movie recently. The movie was Warner Bros. Sherlock Holmes, a tale that was obviously based around the ideas of the book series by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Going into the movie, my thoughts were telling me that the film would just be “one of those movies based on a book series,” but I was surely wrong. Of course, I was stereotyping the genre, something that most viewers and readers do, when I clearly should have been open to the movie. The movie's usage of style and the way it fits the genre make it very entertaining, to the point where it is hard not to watch it.
The movie fits into the “action-mystery” genre, and it gave the viewer a good supply of both parts. That is my normal criteria for a mixed genres, I normally need an equal balance of both pieces. Also, considering the mystery genre, the mystery and plot not only have to be good, but they have to be great. Action is also important in this combination, because it keeps the viewer watching and excited. Sherlock Holmes did not disrupt any of my preconceived notions about the two genres.
There were plenty of fights and explosions to keep the overall action level high and the mystery was amazing, each revealing Sherlock’s exceptional charm. Throughout the movie, Holmes’s exquisite wit created another mystery in the story, making the viewer question how reliable the character was. The moviemakers also included a slow-motion feature in certain complex situations, letting the viewer in on some of the hero's thoughts and plans of action pinpointed on the weaknesses of the people that he would brawl with. As the movie progressed, the storyline unveiled more about Sherlock and Dr. Watson, fixating the audience to see what would happen next. The story also included a touch of romance, which I feel was due to the era portrayed in the film, thus creating a female foil to Holmes that competes with him throughout the film. Like I spoke of before, the action and romance might have even added more captivation than the mystery, giving another type of uncertainty to the viewer. Nevertheless, this film was truly awesome in my opinion.
As you can tell from the vague bits of the story that I have informed you about, reader, you can tell that there was a healthy amount of play with the stereotypical genre, but not too much that the viewer could not follow and was frustrated. If you know me personally, then you know that I am one to get frustrated in a fit of confusion after seeing a movie that breaks the mold of a genre too extremely. As you probably have heard, when using genres, certain criteria fit within them, expectations that the reader or viewer subconsciously has based on what they have seen or read previously. Rest assured, this movie fits in its genre quite snug, giving the viewer a good story while also helping them identify the movie with the genre. Between the characters and the enigmatic storyline, you should be able to notice how great the movie really is. I have included a video link to the movie's trailer at the bottom of this post.
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| Picture courtesy of: http://www.yourmoviestuff.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Sherlock-Holmes-movie-poster_600.jpg |
The trailer can be found at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7aROdTxt6M
AH-HA first comment!
ReplyDeleteAnyway i agree with you Matthew that this movie was infact a great movie. I enjoyed the parts of slow motion sequence fighting most of all. Eventhough the dry comic humor was quite tasteful too, then of course their is the "wit" of Scherlock Holmes and how he is truly a mastermind at figuring out cases and myths that no one else will do. I agree with Matt in saying that this movie was quite the film, and I recommend it also to everyone.
I really enjoyed this movie too. The previews made it look amazing but I didn't get to see it until jusy recently. I agree that there was an excellent balance of mystery and action. I was never sure what was going to happen next. Sherlock was very intelligent in the movie, so he could figure out the clues but I couldn't piece them together. However, the action kept me intrigued and in suspense. I agree with Dylan about the slow motion bits- I thought that was really interesting. It was definitely worth it to watch the entire movie so that I could see how everything fit together.
ReplyDeleteThis movie was absolutely amazing. I watched it so many times. I agree that the slow motion was great and suspense of it all drew me in.
ReplyDeleteI thought this was a great adaption of the Sherlock Holmes series. I also felt that the slow motion bits were amazingly suspenseful. It had great twist and turns for the story line. It was a true testiment to the mystery genre.
ReplyDeleteI have to admit I did not like this movie the first time I seen it. Your review on it kind of made me want to give the movie a second chance. I think that the way you put the movie review was very captivating and was easy for me to understand where you were going. It has amazing feel for the movie.
ReplyDeleteI was able to see this movie in a theater that had DBX technologies. It was pretty cool. The chair would shift during the action scenes (fighting, explosions, etc.) and tilt you forward on the jump sequences.
ReplyDeleteFor some reason, I still like the original Holmes. Shows my age.
Sherlock Holmes is an epic movie. I can see why you chose this film to write your review. I completely agree about how a balance is needed when mixed genres are used as well. The action sequences, plot, and overall effects of the movie really are superb. Bravo.
ReplyDeleteI've been waiting to watch this movie since it has been on ON Demand. I will definatly have to watch it now after reading your review. Your review was very interesting and kept my attention. I'm glad I read your review!
ReplyDeletei absolutly loved this movie. Your review wasvery interseting and kept me reading. The movie was a little long, but was so worth seeing. I loved the actors in it and i though they did an amzing job. I completely agree with your review.
ReplyDeletefantastic movie pick and judging by the responses many others agree as well.
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