Dog’s Movie House: “Enola Holmes” Charming Addition To Doyle’s Detective Mythology!

“Enola Holmes” moves the plot forward by having the film’s young protagonist (an excellent Millie Bobbie Brown) address the audience directly as she experiences her story, speaking of her time with her mother (Helena Bonham-Carter) and her connection with her famous brothers Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft (Sam Claflin). When her mother goes missing one morning, she sets out on a quest to find her despite slight misgivings from Sherlock and outright hostility from Mycroft (who’s something of an elitist dick, in my humble opinion.). Along the way, Enola stumbles into a plot against the young Lord Tewksbury (Louis Partridge) who’s appointment could shake the very foundation of England.

“Enola Holmes” is an incredibly engaging film with vibrant performances, a tight script, and a wonderful production that recreates London at the turn of the century with a terrific sense of cinematic style. The less said about the plot the better, but the twists and turns are not difficult to follow. The performances are terrific, with Brown anchoring the film as the ever optimistic Enola. Her deductive skills learned at the feet of her impressive mother serve her well in a world she had not yet experienced. She’s matched by Cavill who manages to exude a quite, yet intense charisma with Brown in their scenes together. His slow acceptance of his sister’s talents and courage is one of the many delights of the film. Claflin is delightful as the arrogant Mycroft, making him almost as much of a villain as the central antagonists. Partridge as Tewksbury has a nice chemistry with Brown and their developing relationship is both smart and sweet.

Other notable character actors such as Burn Gorman, Fiona Shaw and Adeel Ahktar do noteworthy work in supporting roles, and director Harry Bradbeer, known for his television work, keeps things going at a brisk pace, but not too fast to every stint on the character development.

All in all, “Enola Holmes” is a wonderful film and a unique addition to the lore created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle well over a century ago. It’s smart entertainment for people of all ages (although the wee ones might be a little intimidated by Burn Gorman’s assassin). Hopefully this is the first in a series of adventures featuring the sister of the legendary Sherlock Holmes, 4 1/2 Out Of 5 On Kendog’s Barkometer! So Sayeth The Kendog!

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