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Twilight SagaToday Warner Brothers released the production notes for Sherlock Holmes, which contain detailed information about the development, casting and production of the film which will return the titular character to the big screen on December 25th. The document provides a very in-depth look at the films synopsis, as well as the painstaking research that went into creating an original story that is still able to remain true to the vision of the original characters. While this film will certainly portray Holmes and his ever present partner Dr. Watson in a dynamic new light, the cast and crew hope that they can attract and entertain both newcomers and stalwart fans alike, in this latest venture into the world of literature's most famous detective.
The production notes considers the movie to be "a timeless character in an all new adventure". It is inarguable that Sherlock Holmes is indeed a timeless character, and in fact has a place in the Guinness World Records as the most frequently occurring character in modern entertainment, having been played by roughly 70 actors in over 200 films. For those who have seen the trailers, it is already apparent that the look and feel of this movie will deviate from many of the more traditional depictions of Holmes in the past. Rather than the constantly pensive and deductive man displayed in prior films, Guy Ritchie's new film envisions the detective as a much more versatile character, showing both superb intellect and physical prowess. While this has been met with some skepticism that this will turn the character into yet another action hero, the writers and producers insist that they are returning Sherlock Holmes to his roots.
In Doyle's novels and short stories, Holmes is indeed described as a man who is practiced in many fighting styles and even on occasion participates in boxing matches to blow off steam. Producer Lionel Wigram, who co-wrote the screen story with Michael Robert Johnson, explains his fascination with the character and the excitement in bringing out a side of both Holmes and Watson that has been more or less neglected in prior adaptations. Wigram is quoted as saying:
“When I became a producer, I reread all the stories and realized that there was a new way to do Sherlock. Initially, I made a comic book, which was really a way to show how cool and fun Sherlock could be. I also wanted to explore his humanity and vulnerability and the issues he has to deal with because of his genius; he’s as modern a character now as he was back when he was originally created.”
Wigram also talked of his meeting with the Baker Street Irregulars, an international group of the leading fans and experts on Sherlock Holmes, recalling that he was humbled by the knowledge they had:
“I thought I was a fan and knew about Holmes, but it’s nothing compared to the expertise and knowledge of these people. They were also completely supportive of the film, which was an immense relief."
This should hopefully be good news to eager fans that are anticipated how this film will play out in the overall canon of the extensive Sherlock Holmes saga.
Another piece of good news for this production is the extremely competent cast and crew that was put together to create it, including legendary producer Joel Silver who is responsible for overseeing past blockbusters such the Matrix trilogy, as well as the Lethal Weapon and Die Hard franchises. Director Guy Ritchie, known for crime thrillers such as Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Snatch, and Revolver looks to add the edginess that the film is looking for. In the cast the title role is filled by Robert Downey Jr., an actor nominated for two Academy Awards, winner of three Golden Globes and one BAFTA award. Jude Law, who takes on the role of Dr. John Watson, is one of Britain's finer actors who, in addition to taking on the role of Hamlet, was honered with an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA award for his role in the Civil War drama Cold Mountain. Supporting Downey and Law, is Rachel McAdams as the alluring and deceptive Irene Adler, who has been on the rise since her first starring role in 2002. Filiing the antagonist role of Lord Blackwood is Mark Strong, who has worked with Guy Ritchie in the past in the crime comedy RocknRolla.
In conclusion, we'd say that what can be expected from Sherlock Holmes, will be at best a thrilling action adventure that can satisfy the casual moviegoer as well as the hardcore fan base. At worst it can at least be expected to be a novel and interesting approach to an incredibly iconic character who is an archetype in his own right. While not even Holmes could exactly predict the outcome of a film's reception, Sherlock Holmes is nonetheless a film greatly anticipated to be the best of the holiday season.
Comments (2) — Add Yours
The production notes really showcase the enthusiasm and expertise behind the film, and it shows in the final product.
# Posted by Ryan on 19:30, 16 December 2009
Hmm. Interesting. I am pensive, but optimistic! One of my favourite aspects of the Holmes character is his deductive prowess and so the action-nature of the trailers I’ve seen so far has been a little concerning! This does seem to indicate they’ve taken the views of fan’s like me and tried to please, so I am slightly more hopeful it will be a good film!
# Posted by edd on 19:35, 16 December 2009
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