Sherlock
 | |
|---|---|
| Number of Seasons | 4 |
| Number of Episodes | 13 |
| Episode Length | 85–90 minutes |
| Genre | Mystery |
| Starring | Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman |
| Writers | Mark Gatiss, Stephen Thompson, Steven Moffat |
| Creators | Mark Gatiss, Steven Moffat |
| Music | David Arnold, Michael Price |
| Country | UK, USA |
| Website | |
| Release years | 2010–2017 |
| Rating Kinopoisk • IMDb | 8.9/10 • 9.0/10 |
| Age rating | 18+ |
"Sherlock" is a British action-drama series with crime elements, based on Arthur Conan Doyle's classic works about the famous detective. The series was created by Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat, who have already established themselves through such successful works as Doctor Who and Jekyll. The lead roles are brilliantly performed by Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. The series consists of four seasons, each containing three episodes, with a total of thirteen episodes released. The series aired from 2010 to 2017, with a special holiday episode titled "The Abominable Bride" airing on January 1, 2016. The series' main plots translate Conan Doyle's iconic stories into a contemporary context, with the exception of the special, which is set in the Victorian era.
The project was produced by the BBC in association with Hartswood Films, with Mark Gatiss, Steven Moffat, Sue Vertue, and Rebecca Eaton serving as key executive producers. Financing was also provided by American broadcaster WGBH-TV, which aired the series on PBS's Masterpiece program. In Russia, the series premiered on Channel One, with subsequent broadcasts on other platforms. Principal photography took place in Cardiff, the capital of Wales, while the facade of a building on North Gower Street in London served as the visual identity for the iconic 221B Baker Street address, the home of the main characters.
The series earned widespread acclaim thanks to its excellent writing, masterful direction, and superb performances. Sherlock has been nominated for numerous prestigious awards, including an Emmy, a BAFTA TV Award and a Golden Globe, winning awards in a variety of categories. 2014 was a particularly notable year, when the series triumphed at the Primetime Emmy Awards: Benedict Cumberbatch won the statuette for Outstanding Actor in a Limited Series or Television Movie, Martin Freeman won for Outstanding Supporting Actor, and Steven Moffat won for Outstanding Writing. In 2016, the series was named Best Television Movie of the Year. Earlier, in 2011, the project won a prestigious Peabody Award.
The third season saw exceptional audience interest, breaking popularity records on British television, becoming the most-watched drama since 2001. The series has been acquired in 180 countries and regions worldwide, confirming its international success and undoubted popularity.
Starring
Benedict Cumberbatch ― Detective Sherlock Holmes
Martin Freeman ― Dr. John Watson
Minor roles
Statistics
Total duration of the series: 22 hours 10 minutes
Number of filming years: 7
Number of directors: 10
Film crew
Directors
Douglas Mackinnon, Colm McCarthy, Toby Haynes, Rachel Talalay, Nick Hurran, Paul McGuigan, Euros Lin, Coky Giedroyc, Jeremy Lovering, Benjamin Caron
Producers
Steven Moffat, Elaine Cameron, Susie Liggat, Zakaria Alaoui, Katie Nettleship, Charlotte Ashby, Mark Gatiss, Beryl Vertue, Sue Vertue, Rebecca Eaton, Bethan Jones, Diana Barton, Martin Smith
Camera Operators
Fabian Wagner, Steve Laws, Neville Kidd
Plot
A brief description of the events of the series
Sherlock Holmes, or simply Sherlock, is a British television crime drama series based on the works of Arthur Conan Doyle, but reimagined for a contemporary setting. Its creators have created an original interpretation of the classic stories of the legendary detective and his devoted assistant, Dr. John Watson, transported from Victorian England to the 21st century. This creative approach embodies a fresh take on familiar plots.
The story begins with John Watson, a veteran of the Afghan War, who, upon returning, faces difficulties adjusting to life and finding a place to live. He receives help from his university acquaintance, Stamford, who introduces him to Sherlock Holmes. This momentous encounter leads to them working together and eventually becoming neighbors in London's famous 221B Baker Street, under the watchful eye of their landlady, Mrs. Hudson.
The dynamic duo of Holmes and Watson are the perfect blend of analytical genius and human empathy. They take on the most complex cases, assisting Scotland Yard police officers who often find themselves at a dead end. Holmes, with his phenomenal powers of observation and outstanding deductive abilities, utilizes modern technology, such as the internet and mobile devices, to solve crimes. Each case becomes an intellectual battle, allowing for an even deeper insight into Sherlock's mind and his ability to see the unseen.
The key element of the series is the confrontation between Holmes and his nemesis, Jim Moriarty. This charismatic and dangerous antagonist masterfully manipulates people through blackmail and devious intrigue. He often twists events to portray Sherlock himself as the source of the problems. Their struggle develops into a tense intellectual duel, where every move is planned with impeccable precision, and the stakes rise with each new encounter.
In its later stages, the series begins to depart from the canon of classic detective fiction. In the final seasons, elements of mystery and irrationality appear, sometimes bordering on a sense of magical intervention or the writers' bold imagination. The plot becomes increasingly multilayered, presenting viewers with ever-increasing puzzles that are not always resolved directly or obviously. This approach allows the audience to retain interest until the very last episodes, turning the series into a vibrant and memorable work that leaves an indelible mark on viewers.
Season-by-season description of the series events
Season 1
The first season of Sherlock (2010) centers on Sherlock Holmes's introduction to Dr. John Watson, the rapid development of their friendship, and their joint solution of mysterious crimes spanning London.
The season opens with the episode "A Study in Pink." It begins with a series of mysterious suicides that baffle the London police. Guided by inexplicable evidence, Inspector Lestrade turns to Sherlock Holmes, a man possessing phenomenal skills of deduction, for help. Together with Dr. Watson, Holmes investigates an abandoned building—a key location where the body of a woman in a pink dress is discovered. Before her death, she managed to write a word, which the detectives consider a crucial clue. Delving into the details, Sherlock concludes that the string of deaths is not a coincidence, but the carefully planned actions of a serial killer.
In the second episode, "The Blind Banker," the plot takes a new turn, focusing on an unusual robbery of the bank president's office. The thieves stole nothing, but left strange symbols on the wall, which become the starting point for the investigation. After deciphering the secret message, Holmes contacts broker Van Coon—the intended recipient of the mysterious symbol. However, the situation becomes more complicated: Van Coon is found dead in a room locked from the inside. Moreover, an obsessed journalist soon becomes the victim, dying at home under similar circumstances.
The third episode, "The Great Game," presents the main characters with their most serious test yet. The situation escalates when a powerful explosion occurs at 221B Baker Street. Holmes is challenged: a mysterious terrorist demands the solution of a series of complex crimes within a tight deadline, threatening further attacks. In this tense race against time, Sherlock must overcome not only intellectual challenges but also moral dilemmas to prevent destruction and save lives.
Season 2
Season 2 of the television series "Sherlock" continues the tense confrontation between the main antagonists, Sherlock Holmes and Jim Moriarty, which began in the finale of season 1. Instead of the expected bloody denouement, events take an unexpected turn—an unexpected phone call forces Moriarty to temporarily retreat, preserving the suspense.
The first episode of the season, titled "A Scandal in Belgravia," focuses on the investigation of a large-scale blackmail case that could undermine the stability of the British monarchy. The plot centers on the complex web of conspiracies that Holmes and Watson seek to unravel, encountering international terrorists, CIA agents, and the cunning machinations of the British elite. The episode climaxes with Sherlock Holmes's intellectual confrontation with Irene Adler, a master strategist whose mental prowess rivals Holmes's own.
The season resumes with the second episode, "The Hounds of Baskerville," immersing viewers in an atmosphere of gothic mystification and psychological tension. Henry Knight, who suffered childhood trauma following the tragic death of his father in a giant dog attack, turns to Sherlock for help. Henry, suffering from recurring nightmares and a growing sense of anxiety, becomes a central figure in the case. Holmes and Watson head to the Knight estate, located in the bleak expanse of Dartmoor, near the Baskerville military base. Suspicious experiments are being conducted in this classified area, potentially shedding light on horrific events of the past.
The season culminates in the third episode, "Reichenbach Fall," which reveals the main plot twist. Jim Moriarty once again demonstrates his boundless villainous confidence by orchestrating a daring operation that involves infiltrating the Tower of London, home to the royal jewels. After overpowering the guards and demonstratively destroying a glass display case, Moriarty establishes himself as a symbolic figure, taking the throne with a royal crown on his head. The climax unfolds during Moriarty's trial, where Sherlock Holmes is called upon to testify as the prosecution's star witness. Moriarty's strategy and the ensuing sophisticated manipulations bring the action to a dramatic conclusion, leaving viewers in suspense for what happens next.
Season 3
The third season of the popular television series "Sherlock," introduced to viewers in 2014, once again immerses us in the exciting and unpredictable world of the legendary detective. The season's central theme is the return of Sherlock Holmes, who suddenly reappears alive after two years of absence, shattering the myth of his death, which had been skillfully fabricated to conceal it from his enemies. This time, the creators deepen the storyline, emphasizing Sherlock's complex relationship with Dr. John Watson and introducing new key characters: the enigmatic Mary Morstan, who became Watson's wife, and the cunning antagonist Charles August Magnussen, a master manipulator and professional blackmailer.
The season consists of three episodes, each rich in both intellectual exploration and emotional tension.
"The Empty Hearse." The first episode begins the story of Sherlock's return to London and details how he faked his own death, hid in Tibet, and destroyed members of Moriarty's criminal organization. However, Sherlock's arrival in John's life evokes not only joy but also a storm of emotions: two years of false grief have left a deep mark on Watson. Against the backdrop of this personal drama, another important plot line unfolds—the prevention of a terrorist attack on the British Parliament, adding intrigue and tension.
"The Sign of Three." This episode is entirely dedicated to John and Mary Morstan's wedding. Sherlock, playing best man, transcends the typical detective image, demonstrating touching moments of love and friendship. But his renowned analytical skills prove useful even at the celebration: it turns out that a man in mortal danger is hiding among the guests. It is during the wedding ceremony that a conspiracy entailing a murder threat is uncovered—a moment that transforms the traditional event into a tense mystery.
"His Last Vow." The season finale marks the culmination of the confrontation between Sherlock and Charles Augustus Magnussen. Magnussen is presented as a skilled manipulator, wielding a unique method of influence through a vast collection of compromising information. To thwart his antagonist's plans, Sherlock undertakes a risky infiltration into his territory. However, the situation spirals out of control: in a desperate moral dilemma, Holmes commits murder, violating his own principles. This act becomes a turning point for his character and leads to his exile from the country.
Throughout the season, the writers skillfully explore the inner conflicts of the main characters. John Watson is deeply shaken by the fact that his friend's death was faked, threatening their complicated friendship. Mary Morstan proves to be a much more complex character than initially expected: a former special forces soldier with a mysterious past becomes an important part of the narrative and the team. Charles August Magnussen takes his intellectual rivalry with Sherlock to a new level, thanks to a remarkable performance by Lars Mikkelsen.
Particular attention should be paid to the masterful weaving of elements from Arthur Conan Doyle's original works into the series. The episode "The Empty Hearse" thematically echoes "The Empty House," and "The Sign of Three" is reminiscent of "The Sign of Four." The new characters' storylines are seamlessly integrated into the overall fabric of the series: Mary brings drama and unexpected depth to the story, while Magnussen intensifies the confrontation with his cold-blooded cunning.
The season finale is astonishingly rich in drama and incredible intrigue. Sherlock is accused of Magnussen's murder, forcing him to hide in Eastern Europe. But here, events take an unexpected turn: news of Moriarty's possible return explodes the tension, opening the door to new trials and unpredictable challenges that await the heroes.
Season 4
The fourth season of the television series "Sherlock" transports viewers to modern-day London and its surroundings, where talented private detective Sherlock Holmes and his constant companion, Dr. John Watson, continue their work solving complex and mysterious crimes.
A special Christmas special (zero) titled "The Abominable Bride." Set in Victorian London in 1895, a mysterious and terrifying case attracts the attention of Sherlock Holmes. Inspector Lestrade arrives at the famous detective's home to report a tragedy: Emilia Ricoletti, suffering from consumption, suddenly opened fire on passersby from the balcony of her home and then committed suicide. Soon after, her widower, Thomas Ricoletti, witnessed the impossible—he encountered his wife dressed in a shabby wedding dress. The nightmare culminated with his "returned" wife killing him and disappearing. Intrigued by these events, Holmes decides to solve Emilia's mystery: how did she survive her own death?
Several months pass, and Lady Carmichael approaches Sherlock. She claims that her husband, Sir Eustace Carmichael, encountered a ghost that eerily resembled the late Emilia Ricoletti. The threats turn tragic—Eustace's body is soon found dead. Meanwhile, London begins to descend into terror from tales of Mrs. Ricoletti's spirit wandering the streets of the metropolis, spreading fear, despair, and a thirst for revenge.
Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Watson, and their trusted allies join forces to unravel this dark mystery. Ahead lies a battle with an enemy seemingly connected to the otherworldly realm. But the deeper they delve into the investigation, the closer they come to the shocking truth about the mysterious "Abominable Bride." The finale brings Holmes face to face with a familiar adversary.
The events of the first episode, titled "The Six Thatchers," center around a series of unexplained incidents involving the destruction of portraits of Margaret Thatcher, former British Prime Minister. Sherlock must discover whether these acts are merely the manifestation of an unusual obsession or whether they reveal deep secrets hidden in Mary Watson's past.
In the second episode, "Sherlock Dying," viewers are introduced to a new antagonist—Sherlock [[Sherlock (Culverton Smith)|Culverton Smith], a sophisticated and ruthless killer whose actions pose serious challenges for Holmes. His extraordinary agility and cunning tactics force Sherlock to seek help to overcome this dangerous adversary.
The third episode, titled "The Final Problem," reaches its highest dramatic tension when Sherlock and Mycroft's sister draw them into a deadly game. As a result, threats loom not only over both brothers but also over Dr. Watson. A key fact is revealed: James Moriarty once had a close relationship with Sherlock's sister, carrying out her orders and playing a vital role in her plans.
While the plot is filled with numerous dramatic events, the ending leaves the main characters alive and opens the door for positive change in their lives. The finale is a touching episode in which Sherlock and John join forces to care for Rosie Watson, John's young daughter. Additionally, Dr. Watson receives a message from the late Mary, who, through her message, inspires her friends to continue their active work, reminds them of the meaning of life, and encourages them to take on new endeavors.
Season-by-Season Overview of the Series Episodes
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| Seasons | Episodes | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | ||
| Season 2 | 1 | 2 | 3 | ||
| Season 3 | 1 | 2 | 3 | ||
| Season 4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
Features
Episodes
Dialogues
Relationships
Characters
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| Sherlock Holmes | John Watson | Mrs. Hudson | Mycroft Holmes | James Moriarty |
| Inspector Lestrade | Irene Adler | Henry Knight | Mary Morstan | Charles August Magnussen |
| Culverton Smith | Rosie Watson | Molly Hooper |
Interesting Pages
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Interesting Facts and Notes
- In the Russian cultural tradition, there is an interpretation of the Sherlock Holmes story called "Freud's Method." This series is an adaptation with a distinctive local flavor, reflecting a unique approach to the famous literary character. Notably, the musical score in this version is almost identical to that used in the British BBC production of "Sherlock."
- Regarding the British series, it should be noted that it was the subject of public controversy. The BBC received over a hundred complaints about a scene featuring Lara Pulve, whose near-nude appearance sparked criticism from feminist movements. The circumstances of this scene sparked a heated debate about the ethical aspects of depicting female nudity in film.
- To prepare for the second season, Cumberbatch studied the basics of violin playing to ensure maximum authenticity in his performance. He focused on proper hand positioning and imitating the movements of a musician. However, the final version of his scenes was replaced with a professional recording of a real violinist.
- An interesting fact from Benedict Cumberbatch's biography sheds light on his relationship with actress Una Stubbs, who played Mrs. Hudson. It turns out he spent his childhood on the street where Stubbs lived nearby. The actress describes him as an exceptionally well-behaved child, noting that their acquaintance began long before the filming of the famous series.
- Particular attention has been drawn to the perception of Sherlock Holmes as an asexual character in Cumberbatch's performance. Many fans of his work have expressed gratitude for the representation of such an identity on screen, although in the works of Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock himself was not clearly characterized as either asexual or homosexual. Interestingly, Holmes is considered a gay icon in the Chinese fan community, highlighting the cultural differences in how the same character is perceived in different regions of the world.
- Some researchers have noted traits of the autism spectrum in Sherlock Holmes. The National Autistic Society highlights his tendency to interpret words literally, difficulty understanding sarcasm, and an unwavering belief in his own rightness—characteristics typical of autistic behavior.
- A curious aspect of his preparation for the role was Cumberbatch's decision to wear his hair long—a style the actor himself considers unattractive. While jokingly noting his resemblance to women due to his new hairstyle, he has repeatedly emphasized his mixed feelings about this aspect of the role.
