Mr. Holmes (2015) ⭐ 6.8 | Crime, Drama, Family
PlutoTV (Free way to watch online)
A review from Scott Monty of the I Hear of Sherlock Everywhere podcast
An archived interview covering Mr. Holmes and marriage equality
Review from Variety
Behind the scenes old age makeup
A Slight Trick of the Mind by Mitch Cullin on Amazon
Directed by Bill Condon and based on Mitch Cullin's novel "A Slight Trick of the Mind," the film offers a contemplative take on Sherlock in his twilight years.
Set in 1947, Mr. Holmes is a thoughtful drama starring Ian McKellen as an aging Sherlock Holmes who has retired to a seaside farmhouse in Sussex. Now 93 years old with a failing memory, Holmes struggles to recall the details of his final case, one that forced him into retirement decades earlier. The film follows Holmes as he attempts to piece together this unsolved mystery while developing a friendship with his housekeeper's young son Roger, who becomes fascinated with the legendary detective.
Unlike traditional portrayals of Sherlock, this film presents a more vulnerable and human version of the character. It explores themes like aging, regret, and the limitations of logic and reason, giving room for long pushed down emotion and empathy. The narrative moves between present day and flashbacks as Holmes works to distinguish fact from fiction in his own deteriorating memories.