In the wake of Robert Downey Jr.’s departure from the Marvel Cinematic Universe after ten films of service, rumours are beginning to circulate once again around the possibility of a continuation of Guy Ritchie’s excellent Sherlock Holmes franchise. So, what better time than now to revisit the first two films, available on 4K UHD Blu-ray from Warner Bros Home Entertainment.
Despite being one of the most portrayed fictional characters in TV and film history, these Sherlock Holmes adventures manage to stand out from the pack thanks to Ritchie’s frenetic and exciting direction, and of course, Robert Downey Jr.’s performance as the iconic sleuth (which earned the actor a Golden Globe award).
Both films are visually stunning and transport the viewer back to the dark and smoky 1800s while also feeling familiar and modern, thanks to the Oscar-nominated art direction that brings London of old to life. The film’s sequel, A Game of Shadows, takes the mystery further afield culminating in an action-packed climax at that iconic Sherlockian location, Reichenbach Falls.
The 4K UHD re-releases of both films look and sound fantastic, bringing the gritty world of the films to life. Warner Bros Home Entertainment are certainly leading the pack with the 4K format at the moment, as these consistently excellent catalogue releases prove.
These films are packed with great performances, stunning visuals and thrilling set-pieces, and who could ask for more than that? And a look back at these films would not be complete without a special mention of Hans Zimmer’s superb scores that arguably rank among the maestro’s best. Ritchie’s Sherlock Holmes films are, if nothing else, good old-fashioned fun. Both entries in the franchise may not be perfect films but offer traditional cinema entertainment packed with action, mystery and humour.