By Juliana Riverin
Staff Writer
Placing classic stories in modern settings is not an easy task, yet the series “Sherlock” does it with incredible ease, boasting two successful seasons and a promising start to season three.
“Sherlock” is a modern-day adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective stories. The first two seasons introduce viewers to flatmates detective Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman), who befriend each other and open a detective agency. The series follows Sherlock and Watson as they solves crimes throughout London.
Beginning two years after the season two finale, season three’s episodes “The Empty Hearse,” “The Sign of Three” and “His Last Vow” take place in the months after Sherlock’s return to London from a mysterious disappearance. The season includes Watson’s marriage to Mary (Amanda Abbington) and the return of a dangerous old enemy.
All of the actors shine in the new season, though Cumberbatch and Freeman are particularly impressive in their respective roles. They are able to recreate the irritated but loving dynamic made famous in Doyle’s original writings through a balance of bickering and insults, with a sense of sincerity for their developing camaraderie. This relationship serves as both the emotional and comical crux of the season.
The beginning of season three brings more depth to the character of Sherlock, as more detailed backstories and emotional confessions allow for a previously unseen personal side of the stoic and enigmatic character. This creates an emotional bond with the viewer and revolutionizes the show, which previously had been difficult to relate to.
The changes in the relationship are due to Sherlock’s newfound vulnerability. Season three features the famed detective struggling with loneliness and doubt, as Watson moves toward a new chapter of his life with his significant other. Sherlock’s more humane personality strengthens the premise by elevating it to more than a crime drama, transforming it into an emotionally-charged, multi-dimensional piece.
In addition to the expanded plot points and character evolution, a clever script makes season three all the more entertaining. The writing varies from heartfelt conversations between Sherlock and Watson to an increasing intensity as the duo begins to investigate its cases. By interspersing the emotional confessions and realizations of character growth throughout the crime solving and near-death situations, the show has a quick, constantly engaging pace.
With an evolved cast, witty, dynamic writing and talented actors, the third season of “Sherlock” is a runaway success.
“Sherlock,” which is planned to air for at least two more full seasons, can be found on the BBC network website.
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