Sherlock Holmes

Intriguing And Energetic.

Nineteenth Century London, a game is afoot. Sherlock Holmes and his long-time partner, Dr. Watson, are on the verge of altering, if not ending, their association. But, personal matters are untended when their final case together is unexpectedly reopened, calling into question the reputations and integrity of Holmes and Watson. With the return of Irene Adler, the duo is thrust into a world of trouble, beset by adversaries of substance and shadow. Murder, assassination, corruption, revolution, espionage and theft confront the great detectives... and it may be too much to survive.

Challenging the known characterization of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this film is written with an eye toward action not unlike swashbucklers who chase Nazis and Mummies. But set some three or four decades before such adventures were ‘common’ and using a character so well known for intellectual rather than physical resolutions, some viewers may take exception to this piece of cinema. While the direction and set may seem a bit dull, the story and performances are certainly exciting.

B / PG

Starring: Robert Downey, Jr; Jude Law; and, Mark Strong
Featuring: Rachel McAdams and Eddie Marsan
With: Kelly Reilly
Writers: Michael Robert Johnson; Simon Kinberg; and, Tony Peckham
Director: Guy Ritchie
Reel Reviews by Josef

Avatar

   A Stunning, Remarkable, Overwhelming Achievement!

Across the universe, on a lush green alien world the interests of science and commerce collide. While scientists hope to explore and learn, a conglomerate is seeking to acquire a precious element. The business of that acquisition may have a diplomatic solution, offering the native, primitive, people education, medicine and other advancements in exchange for their cooperation. Should diplomacy fail, a corporate military is waiting... but life on Pandora has many deadly secrets and an army of it’s own!

Seen in IMAX 3D, this film is almost overpowering – visually. The story here is decently written, only slightly predictable. It is the direction, incorporating vast CGI with live action in such a manner one may forget nothing on Pandora is real. Even so, the performances seem a bit weak, becoming lost amongst the wondrous CGI characterizations and sets.

B / PG2

Starring: Sam Worthington; Zoe Saldana; Sigourney Weaver; Stephen Lang; and, Michelle Rodriguez
Featuring: Giovanni Ribisi; Joel David Moore; and, CCH Pounder
With: Wes Studi; Laz Alonso; and, Dileep Rao
Director and Writer: James Cameron

Reel Reviews by Josef