CLIPS MOVIE REVIEWS

by Roger Tennis

On CLIPS In January, 2012

SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS

Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and Watson (Jude Law) try to stop the evil Professor Moriarty (Jared Harris) from changing the course of history.

TRIVIA: Robert Downey Jr. and Jared Harris both had roles in what 1994 Oliver Stone film?

ROG'S VIEWPOINT
     (4 CAMS)        RATED PG-13

When arch-enemy Professor James Moriarty (Jared Harris) threatens world peace, detective Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) is on the case - putting his partner Dr. John Watson (Jude Law) and the doctor's new bride Mary (Kelly Reilly) in jeopardy. Now Holmes and Watson, with help from Sherlock's brother Mycroft (Stephen Fry) and gypsy Madam Simza (Noomi Rapace), must stop the evil genius from changing history. "Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows" is an entertaining cat-and-mouse thriller that nearly matches the energy of 2009's "Sherlock Holmes". Once again, it's the chemistry and banter between the two stars that drive this adventure and director Guy Ritchie wisely focuses on them. One too many of Sherlock's slow-motion mind setups and a drawn-out CSI moment down the barrel of a cannon tend to bring the action to a grinding halt. But these are minor complaints for this character-driven story. Sadly, Rachel McAdams returns only briefly as Holmes' female rival Irene Adler. Eddie Marsan, as Inspector Lestrade, is relegated to a cameo. Noomi Rapace is an interesting choice for the role of Simza - almost the opposite personality of Irene. Rapace played Lisbeth in the original "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo". The atmospheric cinematography of Philippe Rousselot and Hans Zimmer's rousing score add to the delight. Fans of this rebooted series will find much to be pleased with. The elementary conclusion: "Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows" is a winner.