Sherlock Hound

Sherlock Hound, also known as Meitantei Holmes in Japan, is an animated television series that flourished during 1984 to 1985. TMS Entertainment, the premier animation production company in Japan, produced this animated series that features unique anthropomorphic dog-characters inspired by the classic Sherlock Holmes detective stories written by Arthur Conan Doyle.

The series showcases 26 episodes, each contributing to the overarching narrative while also functioning as standalone stories. The show's protagonist is Sherlock Hound, an anthropomorphic dog version of the famous detective. Sherlock Hound brilliantly mirrors its human counterpart’s personality traits as seen from the original stories. He is portrayed as intellectually gifted, observant, and adept at logical reasoning. His ability to piece together seemingly unrelated information to solve complex mysteries is astounding. Hound’s particular love for the unusual cases has also been emphasized in the series, and his love for violin has been playfully replaced by a penchant for inventing and operating steampunk gadgets.

Dr. Watson, another integral character from the original Conan Doyle franchise, serves as Hound’s loyal assistant. He not only amplifies Hound’s intellectual prowess and detective abilities but also infuses much-needed humor into the otherwise serious narrative. The show emphasizes and celebrates their unique dynamic and unshakable friendship just as it was in the original tales.

However, the main ingredient that contributes to the allure of Sherlock Hound is its antagonist, Professor Moriarty. Moriarty, known as one of literature's most menacing villains, is represented in a somewhat new light in this series. The show gives Moriarty a comedic persona, thereby adding an element of humor and light-heartedness to the otherwise dark and suspense-filled plot. He is seen carrying out a multitude of amusing yet intellectually stimulating heists which Hound, with the assistance of Dr. Watson, confronts successfully every time.

One distinguishing feature of the Sherlock Hound series is its setting. The series transports its characters into an atypical version of London in the late 19th and early 20th century, drawing inspiration from the steampunk genre. Characters use strange but fascinating Victorian-era machinery, steam-powered devices, and other complex and advanced technologies inconceivable for that period. These elements add to the show's charm, making it not just a detective series but also an imaginative and playful alternative history portrayal of the Victorian era.

The animation style is another highlight of Sherlock Hound. The character designs, despite their anthropomorphic nature, are strikingly detailed and engaging. The London depicted in the series is true to its historical essence, replete with cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, foggy lanes, vibrant city markets, and steam-powered carriages. Each frame is beautifully crafted to provide an authentic representation of London during that era.

Moreover, despite revolving around criminal cases and detective stories, the show is suitable for a wide range of audiences. The blend of suspense, humor, friendship, and ingenious problem-solving cater to both children and adults alike, making Sherlock Hound a versatile series that appeals to diverse demographics. The series also introduces younger populations to the legendary detective stories of Sherlock Holmes in a manner accessible and appealing to them, thereby inspiring in them a love for mystery and detective stories.

Sherlock Hound was initially directed by Hayao Miyazaki, one of the most renowned names in the anime industry. The influence of Miyazaki's storytelling and animation styles is evident in the series. After internal disputes at TMS, Kyosuke Mikuriya took over, bringing in his own distinctive directorial style without disrupting the continuity of the show.

In conclusion, Sherlock Hound indeed offers an engaging interpretation of the Sherlock Holmes detective stories. By incorporating anthropomorphic dog-characters along with the intriguing blend of steampunk elements and Victorian-era aesthetics, it manages to bring forth a refreshing rendition. The intellectually stimulating mysteries, vivid characters, gripping narrative, and a unique blend of suspense and humor make this TMS’s classic a must-watch animated series. Sherlock Hound remains a highly nostalgic presentation for many viewers, harking back to simpler times of undivided attention and innocent suspense, while still continuing to thrill newer audiences.