The Return of Sherlock Holmes

The Return of Sherlock Holmes is an intriguing television series produced by the MPI Media Group that aired between the years 1986 and 1988. The series provides viewers with a fascinating feel of vintage criminal detection in the heart of London featuring the popular, fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes.

The entire series is an adaptation of the original writings of Arthur Conan Doyle, with the classic scenarios, intelligent storylines, and rich characters that made the stories so beloved. The Return of Sherlock Holmes is stretched over two captivating seasons, effectively captivating the essence of Conan Doyle's genius.

The series serves as a revival of the original series The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, with the audacious Sherlock Holmes portrayed skillfully by Jeremy Brett. Known for his exceptional understanding of the character, Brett's performance epitomizes the ideal Holmes: insightful, eccentric, intensely analytical, and a tad reclusive.

Under his astute eye and logical reasoning, the layers of the most complicated crimes unfold with fascinating simplicity. Beside him is the kind-hearted but ever-perplexed Dr. John Watson, played expertly by Edward Hardwicke, whose performance resonates with viewers as the eternal empathetic bystander to Holmes' deductive prowess.

Set in the late 19th century London, under the grey skies of England, the series retains a consistent period feel with impressive costumes, stage settings, props, and locations. The Victorian era is brought to life flawlessly, with every episode revealing a new aspect of old-world England. Each crime, each storyline showcases the glory of Holmes’ London, while the supporting characters, from Inspector Lestrade to the Baker Street Irregulars, all contribute to the authentic background on which Holmes' genius plays out.

The plots in The Return of Sherlock Holmes are not confined to mere murders or thefts. Instead, they encapsulate an array of intricately woven mysteries, tapping into the extremes of human cunning, greed, passion, and ambition. What makes these narratives genuinely captivating is how Holmes works his way through the complexity of these crimes, his unparalleled deductive logic coupled with his meticulous attention to the seemingly most insignificant details.

Conan Doyle's signature dialogues have been maintained with finesse and gravity throughout the series, showcasing the dark, witty humour that was a notable feature of the original stories. The blend of mystery and moments of light-hearted humour add a unique charm to the series that keeps viewers perpetually engaged.

The Return of Sherlock Holmes doesn’t give the mysteries away until the very end, thereby keeping the suspense element alive. Holmes’ deductions, insights, and conclusions bring forth new dimensions to the entire detective genre. His methods might be unconventional, but they are undeniably successful as he dissects and solves each mystery with an elegance that is his alone.

Holmes' continual conflicts with some of the most remarkable adversaries, such as Professor Moriarty and Charles Augustus Milverton, further enhance the electrifying atmosphere of the series. The spine-chilling thrill of a worthy opponent, coupled with Brett's natural flair for the character, makes each such encounter remarkably gripping.

Overall, The Return of Sherlock Holmes serves as a tribute to the genius of Conan Doyle, where viewers have the pleasure of watching a series of complex criminal cases resolved by the famed detective Sherlock Holmes. It is a compelling blend of masterful acting, well-developed characters, sophisticated dialogues, and engaging storylines delivered in a beautiful period setting.

It would be an understatement to call the series merely a crime drama. It goes far beyond that - an ode to the golden age of detectives, a distinct reminder of the grandeur of vintage storytelling, and a timeless demonstration of literary genius in visual form. Whether you're a die-hard Holmes enthusiast or someone seeking an intricate, classic detective series, The Return of Sherlock Holmes will not disappoint in its intrigue and charisma.