To watch Sherlock Holmes movies in the proper chronological order, start with the Basil Rathbone/Nigel Bruce series, progressing from their wartime adventures to their later escapades. Then, move on to the more modern adaptations, beginning with the Robert Downey Jr./Jude Law films and their planned sequel, and finally consider other adaptations like Mr. Holmes for a different perspective on the iconic detective’s later life.
A Journey Through the Canon: From Rathbone to Downey Jr.
Sherlock Holmes, the consulting detective, has graced the silver screen countless times, making it a daunting task for newcomers to navigate his filmography. Deciding which films to watch, and in what order, depends on your preferred interpretation of the character and your tolerance for varying degrees of canonical accuracy. This guide provides a structured approach to enjoying the cinematic adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
The Classic Era: The Basil Rathbone Series
The Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce pairing is perhaps the most iconic depiction of Holmes and Watson. While their films are not always faithful to Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories, they offer a charming and easily accessible entry point into the world of Sherlock Holmes. Initially, the first two films were more direct adaptations of specific stories, but with the onset of World War II, the series became increasingly patriotic, featuring Holmes solving crimes with a wartime backdrop.
Here’s the order to watch the Rathbone/Bruce series:
- The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939)
- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (1939)
- Sherlock Holmes and the Voice of Terror (1942)
- Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon (1943)
- Sherlock Holmes in Washington (1943)
- Sherlock Holmes Faces Death (1943)
- The Spider Woman (1944)
- The Scarlet Claw (1944)
- The Pearl of Death (1944)
- The House of Fear (1945)
- The Woman in Green (1945)
- Pursuit to Algiers (1945)
- Terror by Night (1946)
- Dressed to Kill (1946)
While chronological release order is fine, there isn’t a strict narrative arc connecting these films, so watching them in this order is largely beneficial for observing the gradual shift in tone and themes reflecting wartime Britain.
The Modern Blockbusters: Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law
Bringing Sherlock Holmes into the 21st century, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law redefined the characters with a faster pace, action-oriented approach. Guy Ritchie’s directorial style injected a new level of energy into the franchise, appealing to a broader audience. The films presented a more physically active and arguably more flawed Sherlock Holmes.
The Robert Downey Jr. Sherlock Holmes films are best watched in this order:
- Sherlock Holmes (2009)
- Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
A third film is currently in development, though details remain scarce. When it is released, it should be viewed as the natural continuation of this series.
Beyond the Mainstream: Alternative Adaptations
Beyond the Rathbone and Downey Jr. series, numerous other Sherlock Holmes movies offer unique interpretations of the character. These range from serious dramas to comedic takes and explorations of Holmes’ later life.
Consider these films after you’ve experienced the two primary series:
- The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes (1970): A more human and introspective look at the detective.
- Young Sherlock Holmes (1985): A fun, adventurous origin story.
- Mr. Holmes (2015): A poignant portrayal of an aging Sherlock Holmes grappling with memory loss.
The order in which you watch these alternative adaptations is largely a matter of personal preference. They offer different perspectives and are not typically connected by a continuing narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Are the Rathbone/Bruce films faithful to the original Sherlock Holmes stories?
No, not entirely. While the first two films, The Hound of the Baskervilles and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, are relatively faithful adaptations, the rest take considerable liberties. The later films often feature original stories, sometimes incorporating elements from existing Holmes tales but primarily focusing on wartime narratives and propaganda.
FAQ 2: Is it necessary to watch the Basil Rathbone films in chronological order?
While not strictly necessary, watching them in chronological order allows you to observe the evolution of the series from more traditional adaptations to wartime propaganda pieces. It also helps you appreciate the changing social and political context influencing the films.
FAQ 3: Will there be a Sherlock Holmes 3 with Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law?
Yes, a third film has been in development for several years, though its progress has been hampered by various factors. While the release date remains uncertain, it is still expected to eventually materialize, with both Downey Jr. and Law anticipated to reprise their roles.
FAQ 4: What is the best Sherlock Holmes adaptation overall?
That’s subjective and depends on your preferences. The Rathbone/Bruce series is considered classic, but the Downey Jr./Law films offer a more modern and action-packed take. Ultimately, the “best” adaptation is the one that resonates most with you.
FAQ 5: Are there any Sherlock Holmes movies that should be avoided?
Quality varies considerably across the vast Sherlock Holmes filmography. Some lower-budget or poorly acted adaptations may not be as enjoyable. Reading reviews beforehand can help you avoid potential disappointments.
FAQ 6: Where can I find the Basil Rathbone Sherlock Holmes films?
Many of the Rathbone/Bruce films are available on streaming services, DVD, and Blu-ray. They are also often shown on classic movie channels.
FAQ 7: Is there a specific reason why the Rathbone Holmes films shifted focus to wartime stories?
Yes, the shift was primarily due to the onset of World War II. The studio and the actors felt a patriotic duty to contribute to the war effort through their films, using Sherlock Holmes as a symbol of British intelligence and resilience.
FAQ 8: How does the Downey Jr. Sherlock Holmes differ from previous portrayals?
The Downey Jr. portrayal is more action-oriented, physically active, and arguably more eccentric than previous versions. He also has a more complex and dynamic relationship with Dr. Watson, played by Jude Law. The films emphasize wit, cleverness, and a deconstruction of Victorian norms.
FAQ 9: Does “Mr. Holmes” fit into the regular Sherlock Holmes canon?
“Mr. Holmes” presents an alternative, later-life interpretation of the character, focusing on his regrets and mortality. While not strictly canonical, it’s a thoughtful exploration of the detective’s aging and legacy. It sits outside the main timelines of most adaptations.
FAQ 10: Are there any animated Sherlock Holmes movies?
Yes, there have been several animated Sherlock Holmes adaptations, including episodes within larger animated series and full-length animated films. These offer a different visual interpretation of the character and are often geared towards younger audiences.
FAQ 11: What are some good resources for finding more information about Sherlock Holmes movies?
Websites like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and dedicated Sherlock Holmes fan sites offer detailed information, reviews, and discussions about Sherlock Holmes movies and adaptations. Online forums can also provide valuable insights from fellow fans.
FAQ 12: Besides movies, what other Sherlock Holmes media should I explore?
Consider exploring the original Arthur Conan Doyle stories, as well as television series like the BBC’s Sherlock starring Benedict Cumberbatch, and other stage adaptations. There’s a vast and rich world of Sherlock Holmes media to discover beyond the films.