Sherlock Holmes

(Via localmovielistings.net)

Today marked a new record in my life of films.

I saw Sherlock Holmes for the third time in theaters, the most I've ever gone to the theater for a single film.

DIALOG: 8/10

DIRECTING: 8/10

ACTING: 10/10

COSTUMES/SCENERY: 9/10

PLOT: 8/10

TOTAL: 8.6/10

It's a move that has grown on me. The first time I saw it, I fell in love with the acting and the scenery, but not the plot.

I felt somewhat confused when I left the theater, but then again that could just be my usual reaction to mysteries. I've never been a huge "who-dunnit-and-how" film fan. But, once I talked it over with others who had seen the film, the London-esque fog had been lifted. So maybe it was just me.

The second time, I laughed harder than the first; the third similarly.

I unfortunately am not completely familiar with Guy Ritchie's work (I know, I'm missing out. Let's not go into the whole list of films I've never seen as an aspiring film maker, and even as a human being. It's a shameful list), but I like his work. The fight scenes were artfully crafted; I wasn't lost with who-hit-who like I am in a lot of movies.

(Via cdn.buzznet.com)

The big acting question on my mind was if Robert Downey Jr was right for the part.

Stupid, I know.

I love RDJ. He is one of my absolute favorites (A fact to which readers will quickly pick up). And I truly think he is what made this movie do so well. He is a man who excels in quirky characters (Just look at Heart and Souls or Soapdish). He perfectly balanced Holmes' insane and brilliant facets.

But was it the part he was "born to play"? No. That honor goes to Chaplin. But this one was close.

(Via cdn.buzznet.com)

Jude Law, however, I believe was born to play Watson. This, keep in mind, is coming from someone who avoids romantic comedies and chick flicks like the plague. I did not like him in Alfie, the only sappy movie I have ever seen him in. I loved him as the uptight, war-worn, intelligent and loyal Watson. I must also tip my derby to the fact that he took audiences away from the pudgy, bumbling Watson of the early days.

I adored Rachel McAdams. On second thought, I don't adore her. I want to be her.

Coming from someone who watched this film three times in theaters, it is a gem. There is just enough action to keep the violent fans interested and the elderly from covering their eyes. The romance is very subtle, which is fantastic for people like me who dislike romantic (unnecessary) subplots. The chemistry between Holmes and Watson is unlike anything I have ever seen before.

It's hysterical. It's interesting. Go see it.

(via filmofilia.com)