Comments on The Baker Street Blog: "The Colossal Schemes of Baron" [REIG]

Reuters confirms that Downey Jr. has agreed to pla...

2008-07-10T02:39:00.000-04:00

Reuters confirms that Downey Jr. has agreed to play the role of the famous detective:

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/arts/entertainment-holmes.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Wow, Sacha Cohen and Will Ferrell portraying Holme...

2008-07-03T16:23:00.000-04:00

Wow, Sacha Cohen and Will Ferrell portraying Holmes and Watson would really be my worst nightmare. I’m just stunned contemplating it. Problem is that it probably would fly with the segment of the population who like “reality” programming in TV. I’m hoping the rumor is, like so many from the entertainment industry, unfounded. - Phil

While I can't claim to be a proper Sherlockian, I ...

2008-07-03T12:18:00.000-04:00

While I can't claim to be a proper Sherlockian, I do love the original canon of stories and novels.

That said, I've long ago given up on faithfulness to literary source material when it comes to Hollywood films. I like Downey, and would love to see him play Holmes, even though he wouldn't be as faithful to the canon as Brett was. But sometimes the re-imaginings of directors (e.g. Ridley Scott with Blade Runner) can create entertainment that is wonderful, even though it departs from the original.

Basil Rathbone commented that one reason why the f...

2008-07-02T23:53:00.000-04:00

Basil Rathbone commented that one reason why the film series he did (and perhaps his stage play) didn't captivate the public was that the public had lost what I call a "willing suspension of disbelief." You have to appreciate the Holmes-Watson atmosphere where 'it is always 1895' to take it seriously and enjoy it for what it is. It cannot be made "current" in the sense people look for today. Yet, there is a market for non-violent, non-sexed movies. They just won't always be blockbusters. It takes a little thought to think of an actor who could bring real character and power to Holmes and Watson. I will try to come up with my pick. I'd be curious of other's ideas.