The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes

The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes is a captivating British television series produced by Thames Television for ITV. First aired between 1971 and 1973, this unique detective anthology offers viewers a refreshing break from Arthur Conan Doyle's world-renowned detective and instead introduces them to the lesser-known, but equally intriguing, detectives of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Distinctly British in its charm, setting, and narration, this show is a must-see for fans of mystery and detective genres, and especially for Arthur Conan Doyle and Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts eager to explore the broader landscape of Victorian-era detective literature.

The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes is based on a series of anthology books edited by Hugh Greene, who was himself a mystery writer and the brother of legendary novelist Graham Greene. Each episode of the series serves as a standalone narrative dramatizing a short story from Greene’s anthology. They introduce viewers to a variety of detectives, each with their own distinct approaches and personalities, as they navigate the intricacies of their respective mystery narratives.

Representing an extensive range of authors such as Baroness Orczy, Ernest Bramah, R. Austin Freeman, and Guy Boothby, the show transforms literature into an engaging visual feast. Unlike Sherlock Holmes's methodical, scientific sleuthing and propensity for disguises, these detectives use an array of different approaches, from sheer intuition and deductive logic to pioneering forensics and cryptoanalysis, making for a diverse, unpredictable, and entertaining viewing experience.

The detectives that the series brings to life include Dr. Thorndyke, the creation of R. Austin Freeman. Thorndyke, a medical doctor with a specialty in forensic medicine, uses his scientific knowledge to uncover the truth hidden deep within crimes. Then there is Detective Inspector Martin Hewitt, created by Arthur Morrison, whose approach to crime-solving is often compared as a stark, realistic counterpoint to Sherlock's deductive abilities.

Max Carrados from Ernest Bramah, who despite his blindness, uses his heightened other senses to solve crimes, is another intriguing character. The show also portrayed literary detectives such as Lady Molly of Scotland Yard, gracious and relentless, and novelist and part-time sleuth Dorrington. This varied cast of characters gives viewers an enriching dip into the wider pool of detective fiction that flourished during the Sherlock era.

The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes boasts a roster of well-known British actors of its time: Robert Stephens, Peter Vaughan, Judy Geeson, Donald Pleasance, and John Thaw, among others, featured across the show's 26 episodes, delivering memorable performances and bringing each story to life.

What is particularly notable about The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes is its steadfast commitment to authenticity. The set and costume design are meticulously detailed, faithfully imitating the era each story is located in. The atmosphere of mystery, combined with the immersive, carefully recreated locales - from dimly lit streets, stylish Victorian mansions to the intriguing underworld - work together to transport viewers back in time, making the viewing experience deeply immersive.

The show's format where each episode presents a standalone story, allows for deep narrative structures and distinctive stylistic choices, deftly bringing each author's original vision to life. The series skillfully combines elements of detective, mystery, adventure, and in some cases, even horror genres. It's arguably this melding of styles that made The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes a distinctive and intriguing show of its time.

In summary, The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes is a charming and engrossing journey into the golden age of detective literature. It offers viewers a delightful, yet often unnerving, exploration of crime and passion in tales finely woven with suspense, mystery, and intellectual stimulation. The engrossing stories, memorable performances, evocative cinematography, and careful attention to authentic period detailing make it a truly seminal series in the annals of British television. For lovers of detective fiction, or those interested in discovering a world beyond 221B Baker Street, The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes from Acorn Media is a thrilling excursion into the fascinating world of Holmes' contemporaries.