Enola Holmes (2020) Movie Review

Enola Holmes, the younger sister of Sherlock Holmes, returns in a cheeky and breezy sequel that surpasses the original. The character has evolved and gained a better sense of who she is, resulting in a more action-packed story with less time spent on explanations. The movie revolves around a mystery that is inspired by a real-life event, making it genuinely inspiring.

Enola is not a mere female version of her older brother, who, in this adaptation, is younger and not as well-established as in the books. She is a unique character, less analytical and more empathetic than Sherlock. She possesses excellent observational skills, fighting abilities, and a great command of mechanical physics. She is also incredibly brave, both physically and morally. The film begins with Enola running through the streets of London, being chased by two Bobbies. She stops to address the audience, displaying her charm and wit. "Perhaps I should explain," she says.

The story then rewinds to Enola's attempts to establish her detective agency in London, with the goal of joining the pantheon of great Victorian detectives. She aims to be her brother's equal, worthy of the Holmes name. However, things do not go as planned, with potential clients dismissing her due to her age or mistaking her for the receptionist. One day, a young girl named Bessie comes to Enola's office, seeking help in finding her missing sister, Sarah. Enola goes undercover with Bessie as a new employee in the match factory where Sarah worked before she disappeared. Enola's youth and gender prove advantageous in her investigations, as potential clients and the people she is investigating both underestimate her.

The film's direction and editing match Enola's lively personality, and the mystery has several delightful twists. Enola is fiercely independent and reluctant to admit she needs help. However, her case may be connected to the one her brother is working on, and her eccentric mother, played by Helena Bonham Carter, shows up to provide some assistance and revision of her earlier advice. Enola's mother advises her to find allies and work with them, stating that with others, she could be magnificent. When Enola needs an emergency ballroom dance lesson, the handsome Lord Tewkesbury, played by Louis Partridge, is more than willing to oblige.

Millie Bobby Brown, who is also a producer of the film, is ideal for the role of Enola. Her asides to the audience are delightful, particularly when she tries to reassure them that her encounter with Tewkesbury in the park was purely coincidental. Animated inserts show us what she is thinking, and flashbacks to her mother's lessons tell us more about what has and has not prepared her for these challenges. Brown brings Enola's curiosity, frustration, determination, and vulnerability to life, allowing us to see her mistakes and watch her learn from them.

The supporting cast is particularly strong, with David Thewlis and Adeel Akhtar as police detectives tracking the same case, often considering Enola an obstruction or a suspect. The other performers in the film are fantastic, but I don't want to spoil any of the twists and surprises by giving away too much about their characters.

The story pays tribute to a real-life historical moment, which is recognized in a closing title card, and a mid-credits scene gives us the tantalizing arrival of a welcome new character. The Enola Holmes series has six books (so far), and I hope her game will continue to be afoot.

In conclusion, "Enola Holmes: The Case of the Missing Marquess" is a delightful sequel that surpasses the original in many ways. With its witty and charming heroine, engaging mystery, and strong supporting cast, the film offers a fresh and exciting take on the world of Sherlock Holmes. Millie Bobby Brown shines in the lead role, bringing Enola's curiosity, determination, and vulnerability to life with great skill and nuance. The film's direction and editing match the lively personality of the heroine, and the story pays tribute to a real-life historical moment that adds depth and resonance to the plot. Overall, "Enola Holmes: The Case of the Missing Marquess" is a highly entertaining and inspiring film that is sure to delight fans of detective stories and adventure films alike. With the promise of more Enola Holmes stories to come, the future looks bright for this plucky and resourceful young detective.