How many films have these three names as stars, as Sherlock and Dr Watson, though Peter has a minor role, but also with the likes of Nigel Davenport and Jeffrey Jones too, the quality cast always keeps things interesting, even if the comedy comes and goes a bit, at times.
My movie came by way of a job lot of Michael Caine films given 'free' with the Daily Mail, so in essence, it cost just 20p. Some of this lot are of frankly awful quality, sub-video actually but this one sparkles with crisp, bright visuals and good stereo sound.
Despite Michael Caine playing Michael Caine (again) his comedic, often drunk portrayal of the sleuth is always engaging, if hammy and a little obvious. Of course, as others have also pointed out, director Thom Eberhardt's novel twist is the role reversal and that it's all Watson's genius and sleuthing and Holmes is just an actor acting him out - therefore, Sherlock is the buffoon, often (& comically) corrected by Kingsley's Watson - you'll see exactly how this works yourself, by watching it!
Whilst it helps to be a fan of the Baker Street duo (I'm not an avid one, but can and do enjoy an occasional dip into) there is a breezy and broad appeal here whilst still retaining a good period feel, though Blenheim Palace near Oxford doubles as old London a fair bit. The whole family could sit down and enjoy this one, unlike the stuffier, more authentic Holmes', the jaunty and rather fun score by Henry Mancini helping. The steam train journey up to Lake Windermere is also a pleasant diversion, breaking up a rather ridiculous story about forged five pound notes.
So, not a movie for those requiring - or expecting reasoned logic and by-the-book acting, but for a light, rainy Sunday afternoon flick that you can dip in and out of, then good fun and well worth the time, especially, if like me, you fancy a bit of good ole Michael Caine.
My movie came by way of a job lot of Michael Caine films given 'free' with the Daily Mail, so in essence, it cost just 20p. Some of this lot are of frankly awful quality, sub-video actually but this one sparkles with crisp, bright visuals and good stereo sound.
Despite Michael Caine playing Michael Caine (again) his comedic, often drunk portrayal of the sleuth is always engaging, if hammy and a little obvious. Of course, as others have also pointed out, director Thom Eberhardt's novel twist is the role reversal and that it's all Watson's genius and sleuthing and Holmes is just an actor acting him out - therefore, Sherlock is the buffoon, often (& comically) corrected by Kingsley's Watson - you'll see exactly how this works yourself, by watching it!
Whilst it helps to be a fan of the Baker Street duo (I'm not an avid one, but can and do enjoy an occasional dip into) there is a breezy and broad appeal here whilst still retaining a good period feel, though Blenheim Palace near Oxford doubles as old London a fair bit. The whole family could sit down and enjoy this one, unlike the stuffier, more authentic Holmes', the jaunty and rather fun score by Henry Mancini helping. The steam train journey up to Lake Windermere is also a pleasant diversion, breaking up a rather ridiculous story about forged five pound notes.
So, not a movie for those requiring - or expecting reasoned logic and by-the-book acting, but for a light, rainy Sunday afternoon flick that you can dip in and out of, then good fun and well worth the time, especially, if like me, you fancy a bit of good ole Michael Caine.