The Problem of Thor Bridge

I am a huge Sherlock Holmes fan from childhood. I even used to think Holmes & Watson were as real as my own family.

Jeremy Brett's Sherlock was brilliant. The Problem of Thor Bridge was an excellent example of how well the producers, directors & all involved created the world of Sherlock Holmes to perfection. Edward Hardwicke as Dr. Watson plays the part with seriousness & humor. Lots of twists & turns & red herrings.

A woman swears revenge against a governess, whom she claims alienated the affections of her children and her husband. Be that as it may, this woman is found murdered on the titled bridge with a bullet in her head. Because a gun of the caliber of murder weapon is found in the governess's drawer, she is arrested for the murder. She finds herself in prison and Holmes and Watson are called in. They must figure out how what appears to be murder may be anything but. The bridge, itself, becomes a bit of a character in the process of unraveling the facts. I really like this story and the methodology as become a bit of a staple for future mysteries. I have to say that when this concluded, I was reminded of the type of mystery that Peter Falk's "Columbo" may have faced.

J. Neil GIbson is a man who is used to having his way. After all, he's a super-rich American who can buy and sell practically anyone! So, when he comes to see Holmes about taking a case, he is not surprisingly, haughty and demanding...and Holmes won't have any part of this and tells him he won't take the case! Gibson seemed nearly apoplectic...but has no choice but to leave.

Later, Watson convinces Holmes to look into the case. After all, the person accused of the crime ISN'T Gibson but his childrens' governess. But the particulars of the case sure make it seem as if she shot and killed Mrs. Gibson and try as he might, Holmes can't get past this...until he remembers the chipped railing on the bridge. What does this mean? See the show.

This is a very good mystery and despite Gibson being about as likable as a putrifying scab, the story works very well. One of the better mysteries.

The story is a fine adaptation of the original story, but the best part is the background music in the opening. It's an excellent reworking of the theme, giving an additional air of suspense. Patrick Gowers surpassed himself on this episode!

In this episode a grouchy American who looks like Mark Twain having a rough day, tries to bully Holmes while wanting to free his governess. This is a great episode. It has everything from the hot blooded Brazilian wife to the young beautiful innocent governess accused of killing the wife. The only thing unbelievable is that the two women would fall so hard for such a rude grouch. Of course he is the gold king so I guess that has something to do with his magnetism.

I also found it humorous that the ugly American had been a senator of some western state. I guess those states out west aren't very discriminating when it comes to electing senators. Present day Missouri comes to mind.