I think this is especially apparent when comparing the Guy Richie version of Sherlock Holmes with the BBC television version called "Sherlock." When I saw the movie "Sherlock Holmes" I was looking forward to a fun mystery with a great actor and a creative director. In the first half of the movie that's exactly what I got. The music was exciting, the story was interesting, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law had great chemistry and looked like they were having great fun playing Holmes and Watson; it was a refreshing new take on an old story. And then, to my dissappointment, the story was taken over by special effects. It seemed that the movie just became one impossible action sequence followed by the next. I am really hoping that the next movie of Sherlock Holmes concentrates more on the mystery and interesting characters. There's a lot of potentional especially when you look at who's in it. It has some great actors like Noomi Rapace, the original Lisbeth from the Millineum trilogy movies, and Jared Harris, or Lane Price- the British guy from Mad Men. I sure hope they use these skilled actors talents and concentrate less on the special effects.
In contrast, the BBC version called "Sherlock" is the smartest, most interesting and fun versions of Sherlock I have ever seen. In my mind Benedict Cumberbatch is exactly what Sherlock should be. Tall and lanky with high cheek bones and a weak chin, he exudes oddness. And, in comparison with Jude Law, Martin Freeman is much more relatable as Watson. The two actors play off each other perfectly and are given time to flesh out their roles so that they are what carry the stories- not the action.
The modernization of "Sherlock" also gives a breath of fresh air into the Holmes story. Set in modern London I have noticed just how much the city plays a role in the show. Sherlock and Watson zip around the city in a taxi passing the London tower, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Thames. Modern technology like cell phones and computers are constantly being used through out and are so central to the stories now that it's hard to imagine Holmes solving crimes without them. Overall, "Sherlock" has taken a genre which I have never been all the crazy about and made it fascinatingly entertaining.
I am so impressed with certain television shows right now that when I think about what I'd like to watch 90 % of the time it is some tv show.
My top television series are:
The Sopranos- there is no doubt that it is the greatest acheivement in television history so far.
Mad Men- Wonderful acting and great characters. A fascinating look at the 60's in America. Superb on all levels.
Sherlock- for all the reasons I listed above.
Battlestar Gallactica- Tom and I watched this series together and enjoyed every minute of it (which is saying something because Sci Fi is not my favorite genre)
