By Katherine Mueller
Staff Writer
The spirit of adventure flows with purpose throughout “Enola Holmes,” yet is often stifled by the film’s mercurial storyline.
“Enola Holmes” defies gender roles and enforces the power of independence, all whilst being wrapped up in a beautiful Victorian setting. However, with its abundance of plot points, the film tends to harbor an emptiness with its scenes and characters.
Released on Sept. 23, “Enola Holmes” was directed by British filmmaker Henry Bradbeer. The film additionally features esteemed actors Millie Bobby Brown, Henry Cavill, and Helena Bonham Carter.
“Enola Holmes” tells the tale of the confident young Enola Holmes, who travels across England in search of her missing mother. Along the way, she meets a mysterious teenage lord, battles assassins, and applies her skills to the world around her, all while evading the capture of her brothers Mycroft and Sherlock Holmes.
Admittedly, the greatest aspect of “Enola Holmes” is its main character, portrayed by “Stranger Things” actress Millie Bobby Brown. Enola is an intelligent and compelling character who consistently paves her own path, despite the traditional female conformist standards of the 19th century. Additionally, the film addresses other feminist themes such as women’s suffrage and physical strength, which empowers young female viewers and adds integrity to the film.
Several characters in the film are severely underdeveloped, which oftentimes hinders the film’s drive. Enola’s mother is supposed to be a key element of mystery in the story, yet the lack of her character development or backstory makes the mystery of her disappearance seem less relevant. Overall, the amount of side characters in the film is appropriate, but the lack of clear motives and uniqueness in the majority of them adds unnecessary confusion to the film.
Viewers will enjoy being pleasantly whisked away into a bright, romantic, and ornate Victorian England. The cinematography of the film is spectacular, showcasing beautiful rural scenes and detailed estates. The film also displays detailed, historically accurate, and aesthetically pleasing costumes that further serve to add tastefulness and charm to the film.
All in all, the borderline feeble plot structure and underdevelopment of characters stamps emptiness onto the film. Yet, “Enola Holmes” is an undeniably fresh and progressive take on the traditional Holmes mystery, which certifies it as an entertaining, worthwhile watch for a wide range of audiences.
Released on Sept. 23, “Enola Holmes” is rated PG-13 and avail-able to stream on Netflix.
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