[The_Return]

Sherlock Holmes (2009)

Great entertainment. I'll admit that I'm not overly well-versed in Holmes history (I've only read a couple of the original stories, and the only film version I've seen is the Peter Cushing Hound of the Baskervilles) but as far as I can tell this version still sticks to the core of what makes Holmes such an amazing character, and also fully succeeds in updating him for a modern audience. Could have done without the love interest - though Rachel McAdams is drop-dead gorgeous as always, her character could easily have been written out.

A solid action movie with a crackling script and great performances wrapped around a half-decent mystery - Downey Jr. continues his hot streak and leads this to be one of the most entertaining films of '09. I can see Holmes purists getting pissed at certain elements, but overall it's a fantastic facelift for a classic character.