I watched Enola Holmes and I liked it. 3/5
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Enola Holmes, released in 2020 and directed by Harry Bradbeer, presents an adventurous and lighthearted take on the famous detective Sherlock Holmes, focusing on his younger sister, Enola. While the film boasts an impressive cast and a fresh perspective, it falls short in its execution, resulting in a somewhat uneven viewing experience.
One of the film’s strengths lies in the charismatic performance of Millie Bobby Brown as the titular character, Enola Holmes. Brown brings a spirited and endearing energy to the role, infusing Enola with a sense of independence and intelligence. Her portrayal captures the character’s youthful determination and wit, making her an engaging protagonist. Additionally, the chemistry between Brown and Henry Cavill, who plays Sherlock Holmes, adds a delightful dynamic to the film.
The film’s visual style and production design also deserve praise. The Victorian era is brought to life with vibrant colors and intricate sets, creating an immersive world for the characters to inhabit. The costumes and attention to detail in the period-specific elements enhance the overall aesthetic, adding to the film’s charm.
Furthermore, Enola Holmes tackles themes of female empowerment and the fight for women’s rights, presenting Enola as a strong-willed and resourceful young woman who defies societal expectations. The film’s exploration of these themes adds a relevant and timely layer to the story, highlighting the importance of independence and self-discovery.
However, despite these positive aspects, Enola Holmes suffers from a lack of narrative focus and pacing issues. The plot meanders at times, losing sight of its central mystery and character development. While the film initially sets up an intriguing mystery surrounding Enola’s missing mother, it becomes overshadowed by various subplots that don’t always contribute to the main storyline. This lack of narrative focus hampers the film’s overall cohesiveness and impact.
Additionally, the pacing feels uneven throughout the film, with some scenes feeling rushed while others feel unnecessarily prolonged. Certain sequences could have benefited from tighter editing, as they tend to drag, impeding the film’s momentum and leaving the audience longing for a more streamlined storytelling approach.
Furthermore, the film’s attempts to include comedic moments occasionally fall flat. The humor, while lighthearted, often feels forced and out of place, disrupting the otherwise engaging narrative. The balance between humor and drama is not always achieved, resulting in tonal inconsistencies that can be jarring.
In conclusion, Enola Holmes offers an entertaining and fresh perspective on the Holmes mythology, fueled by a charming performance from Millie Bobby Brown. The film’s visual style and thematic exploration of female empowerment are noteworthy, adding depth to the story. However, the lack of narrative focus and pacing issues hinder its potential impact. Despite its shortcomings, Enola Holmes still manages to deliver an enjoyable adventure with strong performances and a positive message. With its endearing protagonist and visual flair, it earns a 3 out of 5 rating. While it may not reach the heights of other Holmes adaptations, it provides a fun and accessible entry point for younger audiences and fans of the detective genre.