Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Barry Levinson and produced by Steven Spielberg, Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) is a captivating adventure film that imagines the early years of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes. With a screenplay co-written by Chris Columbus and featuring a blend of mystery, adventure, and supernatural elements, this film offers a fresh take on Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic character. Starring Nicholas Rowe, Alan Cox, and Sophie Ward, Young Sherlock Holmes provides an entertaining and imaginative exploration of the detective’s formative years. In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s key aspects and guide you on where to watch it online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Young Sherlock Holmes follows the teenage years of Sherlock Holmes (Nicholas Rowe) and his friend John Watson (Alan Cox) as they attend a prestigious boarding school in Victorian England. The film begins with a series of mysterious and seemingly unrelated deaths around London, which appear to be connected to a sinister cult and a powerful drug that induces hallucinations.
As Sherlock and John embark on a journey to unravel the mystery, they encounter a range of intriguing characters and dangerous situations. The film introduces a young Holmes as a brilliant but socially awkward student, and his friendship with Watson becomes a central element of the story.
The plot thickens as the duo uncovers clues leading to a nefarious plot involving a secret society and a conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of society. The film combines classic detective work with supernatural elements, as Sherlock and Watson face challenges that test their courage and intellect.
Nicholas Rowe’s Portrayal of Young Sherlock
Nicholas Rowe delivers a compelling performance as the young Sherlock Holmes. Rowe captures the character’s intelligence, curiosity, and underlying vulnerability, offering a fresh perspective on the iconic detective. His portrayal emphasizes Sherlock’s early struggles with his deductive skills and social interactions, providing a more nuanced view of the character.
Rowe’s performance is complemented by his chemistry with Alan Cox, who plays John Watson. The dynamic between the two characters is central to the film, and their developing friendship adds depth to the story.
Alan Cox as John Watson
Alan Cox portrays John Watson with warmth and reliability. Watson is depicted as a loyal and courageous friend who complements Sherlock’s brilliance with his own bravery and practicality. The film explores the early stages of Watson’s character, showcasing his role as both a confidant and an ally to Sherlock.
Cox’s performance adds emotional depth to the film, highlighting the importance of their friendship and the support Watson provides to Sherlock throughout their adventure.
The Supernatural and Adventure Elements
One of the notable aspects of Young Sherlock Holmes is its blend of mystery and supernatural elements. The film incorporates hallucinogenic effects and a secret society with mystical practices, adding a layer of intrigue and excitement to the story.
The special effects used to depict the hallucinations and supernatural occurrences were groundbreaking for their time, contributing to the film’s atmospheric and adventurous tone. The combination of detective work and supernatural elements creates a unique and engaging narrative that sets Young Sherlock Holmes apart from other adaptations of the character.
Barry Levinson’s Direction
Barry Levinson, known for his work in various genres, brings a sense of adventure and wonder to Young Sherlock Holmes. His direction effectively balances the film’s mystery and supernatural elements, creating a story that is both thrilling and imaginative.
Levinson’s approach to storytelling emphasizes the young characters’ growth and their journey to uncover the truth. The film’s pacing and visual style capture the essence of Victorian London, enhancing the overall immersive experience.
What Works Well
Young Sherlock Holmes succeeds in providing a fresh and entertaining take on the classic detective character. Nicholas Rowe’s portrayal of Sherlock and Alan Cox’s performance as Watson offer a compelling dynamic that drives the story forward.
The film’s blend of mystery, adventure, and supernatural elements creates a unique and engaging narrative. The special effects, while dated by modern standards, were impressive at the time and contribute to the film’s adventurous and fantastical atmosphere.
What Falls Short
While Young Sherlock Holmes is an enjoyable film, some viewers may find the supernatural elements to be a departure from the traditional Sherlock Holmes stories. The blend of fantasy and detective work may not appeal to purists who prefer a more grounded portrayal of the character.
Additionally, the film’s pacing may feel uneven at times, with some scenes dragging while others move quickly. Despite these minor issues, the film remains an entertaining adventure that captures the spirit of its young protagonists.
Where to Watch Young Sherlock Holmes Online
For viewers in the United States, Young Sherlock Holmes is available on several streaming platforms for rent or purchase:
- Amazon Prime Video
Young Sherlock Holmes can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, available in HD or SD formats for convenient streaming. - Apple TV (iTunes)
The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV (iTunes), and can be downloaded for offline viewing on Apple devices once purchased. - Google Play Movies & TV
Young Sherlock Holmes is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV, accessible on a variety of Android devices. - Vudu
Vudu offers Young Sherlock Holmes for rent or purchase in HD, providing high-quality streaming options for fans of the film. - YouTube Movies
You can rent or purchase Young Sherlock Holmes through YouTube Movies, allowing streaming on any device that supports YouTube.
Is It Worth Watching?
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) is a delightful and imaginative film that offers a unique take on the young Sherlock Holmes. With strong performances from Nicholas Rowe and Alan Cox, and a blend of mystery and supernatural elements, the film provides an entertaining adventure for fans of detective stories and fantasy.
The film’s special effects and adventurous spirit make it a memorable watch, despite some minor issues with pacing and the departure from traditional Sherlock Holmes themes. For those interested in a fresh and exciting take on the iconic detective, Young Sherlock Holmes is a film worth watching.
Conclusion
Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) offers a captivating and adventurous look at the early years of Sherlock Holmes, blending mystery and supernatural elements with a strong emotional core. Nicholas Rowe and Alan Cox deliver memorable performances, and the film’s imaginative storytelling provides an engaging experience. With various streaming options available, it’s easy to enjoy this classic adventure from the comfort of your home.
