Saving Face Solving Crimes

A cheeky yet intriguing take on what it’s like to grow up as a young Holmes

By Ruwandi Perera

If you think Enola Holmes is all about a plucky young girl resolute in getting out of her brother’s shadow, you’re right. Nevertheless, the sequel to the 2020 movie is so much more than that.

We’re seeing a whole lot of adventure, mystery, thrills (and frills thanks to the fancier side of London where some scenes take place), feminism (duh!) and good looks – thank you Henry Cavill.

Enola Holmes has opened her own agency to establish her own brand, far away from the near perfection of her brother. Yet, she soon finds that entrepreneurship – especially for a budding female detective, is no walk in the park. Since she is determined to help her first and only customer while staying safe in a dangerous world, Enola ultimately teams up with her brother Sherlock to solve the case that’s got them both in a pickle.

While some critics feel that the story is nothing more than a teenage movie, others believe that it’s one of the better tales woven around the Sherlock saga. The movie is loosely based on Nancy Springer’s source novels and depicts true events such as the 1888 matchgirls’ strike in England.

There are many plot twists and red herrings that might make it difficult to keep track of the movie at times. However, the storyline is intricately drawn from beginning to end – a fine golden thread that connects all the dots and delivers many surprises to the audience.

Millie Bobby Brown proves (once again) that she has so much more versatility than portrayed in her larger-than-life Stranger Things character. Even when breaking the fourth wall, she displays the kind of charisma worthy of a Holmes detective.

Audiences are also treated to a lot more Cavill in Enola Holmes 2 and no one is complaining! The on-screen dynamics of Henry Cavill and Millie Bobby Brown are enigmatic, and the two play off each other well – like a normal family.

Fans are also assured that the young detective’s second movie is not the last time we will see her. With the post-credits scene bringing a much-loved franchise character to attention, the game is definitely on!

ENOLA HOLMES 2

2h 8 mins | Mystery, Crime
Release: 27 October 2022 (US)
Director: Harry Bradbeer
Distributor: Netflix
Writers: Jack Thorne, Harry Bradbeer
Cast: Millie Bobby Brown, Louis Partridge and Henry Cavill

Enola Holmes 2 shows the hard yet challenging career of a young detective who is determined to prove her worth on her own. However, she has no choice but to compromise and collaborate with her brother for the betterment of both.