Quite often, we are faced with a dilemma of sorts when it
comes to sequels. When we enjoy a certain show or film, it forms a benchmark in
our heads for its sequel and many-a-times it does not live up to its own
standards according to our expectations. This causes the problem of not wanting
to watch the sequel or series in fear that it will cause disdain for the film
or television show. But thankfully, the second series of the British television
show Sherlock has no such problem.
Series two of Sherlock starts where it left off in the end
of the first series. The cliffhanger is closed and Sherlock is faced with a new
case in the first episode which is titled A Scandal In Belgravia. In this
episode, Sherlock is forced to deal with a dominatrix called Irene Adler to
retrieve vital data in her possession which can leave top officials in Britain
with a red face. The second episode is called The Hounds of Baskerville where
Sherlock must uncover the mystery of Baskerville which is reported to be
haunted by huge hounds that have killed the residents of the town in the past.
The third and final episode of the series is titled The Reichenbech Fall where
Sherlock must battle with his arch nemesis, James Moriaty, as Moriaty proceeds
to wipe out all traces of Sherlock’s credibility and leave him with no other
option but to kill himself in order to save the lives of his family and
friends.
Series two of the instalment does not necessarily outdo the
first series. It lives up to the expectations which were set in series one and
establishes the characters firmly within the context of the 21st
century adaptation. It plays on the ideas established in the first series and
takes them forward, for example, Sherlock continues to place his faith in his
homeless friends and trusts their network in the London underground to bring
him information he finds necessary. There is also a greater exploration of
Sherlock’s character and an emphasis on him being human. It does not show
Sherlock as being an absolute mystery but shows a side of him which is mortal
and fallible. The series shows that Sherlock needs his friends and confidants
around him. It also shows that he can be wrong and make mistakes, that he is
not a person without flaws and that his flaws can prove almost fatal. On more
than one instance in the series, his mistake or his inability to arrive to the
right conclusion on time proves to be a problem to himself and other people
around him.
The series places less of an emphasis on Sherlock’s
observation and deduction abilities. While they do play a major role in his
crime solving as he goes about being a consultant detective, the first series
had a lot more of Sherlock showing off to the audience using his quick and
delicate observation powers. The series also has a tongue-in-cheek view of the
relationship between Sherlock and Dr. Watson. While it is apparent that they
are merely roommates and work together, Dr. Watson shows a sense of concern for
Sherlock and his wellbeing while Sherlock admittedly enjoys Watson’s company;
during this time, numerous reports keep popping up questioning their intentions
of living and working together.
Series two of Sherlock is probably one of the most awaited
television series of the year, especially after a viewing of the first series.
Written by the same duo of Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, this series is very
interesting and entertaining all the same. It is quite original with its 21st
century relevance of an age old character that is Sherlock Holmes.
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