Sherlock: A Comedic Thriller

         

            Are you looking for a new murder mystery thriller show to keep you on your seat? Then the show Sherlock is just for you. The first episode, titled “A Study in Pink”, begins with the war veteran Dr. John Watson (Martin Freeman) as he looks for someone to share a flat with. He runs into an old friend who introduces him to the “high-functioning sociopath” Sherlock Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) and they move in together. For Dr. Watson, finding out what Holmes actually does remains a mystery until he uses his amazing power of deductive reasoning to reveal he’s a “consulting detective. The only one in the world”.

As the two characters attempt to solve a chain of suicides that appear to have no connection, they reveal that they have an odd yet enjoyable chemistry. On one hand there is the crazy and suspiciously-smart detective and on the other is a war veteran who is still seeking the thrill of combat. While these two may seem like they would never get along, they bring out the humor of the show through conversation like this:

Cumberbatch (Left) & Freeman (Right)

Watson: It's how you get your kicks, isn't it? Risking your life to prove you're clever.

Holmes: Why would I do that?

Watson: Because you're an idiot.

Holmes: Dinner?

Watson: Starving.

        The show takes place in London, England and adds many modern touches that make the show and the mysteries themselves feel ahead of the time. Text messaging is mentioned several times, and when the characters receive a text, a graphic appears on the screen, allowing viewers to read the message easily. That’s something I’ve never seen on a show before and it shows how television programs are growing to appeal to a millennial crowd and adapting to become more modern. 

         The mystery of “A Study in Pink” will keep you intrigued for all 90 minutes, while the humor of Sherlock and Watson will make you laugh and break up some of the tension. If you’re a fan of a good mystery, or you just need a new show after you’ve binge watched all of Friends on Netflix, definitely check out Sherlock!