Media

Home Theater Movie Renter's Guide - June, 2012

“Sherlock Holmes A Game of Shadows" (Blu-ray) - Reviewed by Stephen Hornbrook

Synopsis

Sherlock Holmes and the always dependable Dr. Watson face off against the surreptitious Prof. Moriarty.  In A Game of Shadows, the beautiful Irene Alder, someone Sherlock has come to quite fancy, is poisoned by Moriarty after he determines her spoiled by her love for Sherlock.  Watson makes a visit to Holmes and discovers and intricate map of events, deaths and bombings, all seemingly unrelated, but tying back to one man- Prof. Moriarty. A letter taken from Alder leads them to a gypsy named Simza who eventually joins their hunt for the Professor. After Watson’s wedding, Holmes meets Moriarty and discovers he was indeed the one who killed Alder and the hunt is officially on. 

Commentary

I’ve always been a Guy Ritche fan. I know many people who can’t stand his movies.  At times they seem like an ADHD kid in a room full of a thousand toys, but he keeps the adrenaline pumping and has a visually creative mind.  His first Sherlock Holmes movie was a lot of fun and overall, a much better film than A Game of Shadows.  There just isn’t as much excitement and wonder in this one.  However, it is certainly worth watching so I suggest a rental.

Technical

The overall look to the film is a bit drab and muddy. Details were there but it didn’t have the sharpness for a 5/5 on the video scale.

I enjoyed the audio for Game of Shadows, especially the score by Hans Zimmer. It’s full of life and really fills your room.  Some great surround effects during a forest scene with shards of wood flying everywhere.

Extras

Maximum Movie picture-in-picture track
Movie app for smart phones and tablets for extra info as you watch the movie
Focus Points (35min) a collection of featurettes