The Final Problem

As I have said many, many times I am a fan of the Granada Sherlock Holmes adaptations. I love how well made they are, I love the sophisticated stories and writing, I love the music and as much as I do like Basil Rathbone(a lot actually) I consider Jeremy Brett the best Sherlock Holmes.

The Final Problem is for me one of the best and most special of the series. And although that's part of why, it's not only because it has Holmes and Moriaty and a final ten minutes or so that will delight any Holmes or Conan Doyle fan.

The Final Problem also has a loyal and thoughtful script, and the story is thrilling with seldom a dull spot. The adaptation has some of the most beautiful scenery in any of these Granada adaptations, and it is beautifully shot as well. The music score is also one of my favourites in the series, the final moments are orchestrated beautifully especially as if in a reflective and doubtful way, and the direction is reliable.

Jeremy Brett gives a commanding performance as always in the titular role and David Burke is a more than a perfect match for him. Moriaty is also very effectively portrayed by Eric Porter as well. All in all, wonderful and will be always be very special to me. 10/10 Bethany Cox

After having written quite a few Sherlock Holmes stories, Arthur Conan Doyle was sick of the character and wanted to write other things. So, originally this was intended as the last Holmes story. Doyle's subsequent failure as a writer of other tales and a huge outcry from fans of the series eventually meant that Holmes would return...and "The Return of Sherlock Holmes" was the result. In other words, this is the last story in "The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes".

In this story, Holmes has disappeared for some time. Eventually he shows up at 221B Baker Street and the story begins. It seems this time away was spent doing some undercover work. It seems he and his arch nemesis, Moriarty, are headed for a final showdown. This trip enventually takes him to the Continent and Reichenbach Falls.

This is one of the best Holmes stories...well written and with a lovely Swiss location. Because of this, it's really a must-see for Holmesophiles!

By the way, this story is about the Mona Lisa and one art expert declares it's the greatest portrait ever painted. While many believe this, it does seem ludicrous to say any one painting is the greatest of its type. I saw it twice and thought it was nice. But the best?!

The Final Problem is without a shadow of a doubt one of the best episodes of Brett's Sherlock Holmes, and arguably one of the finest productions to feature Holmes.

The script is terrific, and hugely faithful to the book. Burke's narration throughout is a real highlight in what would sadly be his last appearance as Watson. The location work is breathtaking, it looks imposing, dramatic and wonderful throughout, overall it feels big budget.

The best aspects of this episode though, without any doubt are the performances of Jeremy Brett and Eric Porter, the pair individually are astonishing, but together they are beyond compare, with some incredible scenes.

Flawless. 10/10

For those who really love the Sherlock Holmes stories, this one is where we have our radar up, watching intently to see if the writers and directors have done it justice. Holmes' adversary, Moriarity (played with panache by Eric Porter), has been presented as the equal of Holmes and he and his henchmen have as much at stake as the great detective. Holmes often remarks that the world is lucky that he (Holmes) never decided to turn to crime. After a nice presentation of the evil of his arch rival, Holmes meets him in Switzerland at the Reichenbach Falls. Part of the joy of this episode (and it is really well done) is that for his encounter, he must part ways with Watson and go it on his own. This is out of love as well as practicality. The scenery is breathtaking. If one has never seen the beauty of the Alps, the wonderful scenery contrasts the evil of Moriarity. Conan Doyle was tired of Holmes because he was being judged for only one part of his work. This, of course, sets up the next set of episodes.

Jeremy Brett will forever be the quintessential Holmes! He Is magnificent portraying the elusive genius of Holmes like no other! He lives on forever in the hearts of Sherlock Holmes fans!