SHERLOCK HOLMES, A GAME OF SHADOWS; Carlisle's Final Word.

"The psychological analysis of handwriting. The upwards strokes on the P, the J, the M indicate a genius level intellect. The flourishes on the lower zone denote a highly creative yet meticulous nature. But if one observes the overall slant and pressure of the handwriting there is a suggestion of acute narcissism, a complete lack of empathy, and pronounced inclination toward moral insanity."

Sherlock Holmes.

Script Logic; 1/2

Pace; 1/2

Acting; 2/2

Aesthetic; 2/2

Originality & Intention; 1/2

Final Score; 7/10

Final Word;

Topping the success of its predecessor was always going to be a hard thing to do, and to expect as much is probably unfair. Needless to say the film falls short of the dizzy heights set by the original, but by no means does that make it a failure. Here Downey and Law do what they do best- bickering and fighting their way through ridiculousness and explosions as they attempt to foil the sinister Professor Moriaty. If you liked the first, then this is a very welcome second dose for more of the same. To address the film’s flaws, the second act felt overlong, the plot is overly convoluted, and the slow-motion is beyond excessive (especially concerning the woodland shoot-out). But, having said that, the film is saved by its central characters, and Jared Harris (son of the late and great Richard Harris) is particularly charismatic as the villain. So long as you keep your expectations realistic, this film is sure not to disappoint.