2020 presented unprecedented difficulties for movie theaters, especially as the global pandemic forced closures and streaming services experienced significant growth. Netflix has been quite active this year, releasing several original films like *The Devil All The Time*, *I’m Thinking of Ending Things*, and *Project Power*. While most have been enjoyable, I hadn't yet encountered a 2020 film from the studio that I actively disliked. Does *Enola Holmes* change that? No, not really. With a talented cast and high production values, a fresh perspective on the classic Sherlock Holmes stories is certainly welcome, and that’s one of my biggest compliments. Director Harry Bradbeer and Jack Thorne (*His Dark Materials*) offer an interesting twist by centering the narrative around Sherlock's less-known sister and presenting a different portrayal of the famous detective than we typically see. The editing, cinematography, and musical score all contribute to quirky, engaging scenes that help viewers understand Enola’s thought process as she assesses situations—often through breaking the fourth wall. This technique is largely thanks to Millie Bobby Brown. From her early work in *Stranger Things*, I believed she was destined for stardom. For years, I've predicted she would break records as the youngest actress to win a Best Actress Oscar, and with major roles like *Godzilla: King of the Monsters* already under her belt, she’s well on her way. This Netflix film further demonstrates her versatility—having portrayed vastly different characters in various genres—her emotional range, and her mature acting ability; she rarely overacts or undershoots her performances. She embodies Enola so effectively that I struggle to imagine anyone else playing the part. Enola’s journey feels genuinely empowering; it doesn't feel like a forced message or an illogical character development choice. Every puzzle she tackles, every plan she creates to protect someone or something, and every decision she makes seems well-justified. She rejects societal expectations and wants to be herself without needing approval from others—a familiar sentiment delivered with impressive execution. The rest of the cast is also noteworthy; Henry Cavill’s performance as Sherlock is a pleasant surprise, though it may spark some debate. It's a departure from the detached, analytical Sherlock portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. and Benedict Cumberbatch, which I appreciate. A character belongs to those who create it, not its fans. Cavill brings a playful energy to the role, and Thorne has made subtle adjustments to the classic character’s traits. Louis Partridge and Sam Claflin are both excellent as Lord Viscount Tewksbury and Mycroft, respectively, with the remaining actors delivering solid performances overall. However, I was almost ready to dismiss *Enola Holmes* after just thirty minutes. Despite its unique elements, the film ultimately follows a fairly predictable plot with familiar character drama. Sadly, it doesn't offer anything particularly new in terms of story; there are no real surprises, which isn’t ideal for a movie built around a central mystery. This leads to a bigger issue I hadn't anticipated—the mystery itself essentially disappears midway through the film, replaced by a young-adult romantic subplot that, while enjoyable, doesn’t fit as the main focus. I always prefer experiencing films without having seen trailers, as they can often skew expectations. I went into this completely blind, and had I watched *Enola Holmes*' trailer beforehand, I likely would have been more critical of it. The trailer emphasizes what many viewers will expect: the mystery surrounding Enola’s mother's disappearance. Given how the film unfolds, the trailer is somewhat misleading. Overall, *Enola Holmes* provides a pleasant and refreshing take on a franchise that may now have a future. Director Harry Bradbeer and Jack Thorne deliver a lighthearted, entertaining story with plenty of action, clues to decipher, and a strong cast. Millie Bobby Brown continues her ascent, showcasing her versatility, range, and maturity as an actress. It’s only a matter of time before she becomes one of Hollywood's most sought-after performers. Her chemistry with Henry Cavill and Louis Partridge is wonderful, and her fourth wall breaks are captivating. Technically, the film excels in conveying Enola’s thoughts and feelings through excellent editing, cinematography, and music. However, the story itself is fairly generic, lacking surprises and featuring a central mystery that isn't truly one. It’s an enjoyable movie to watch with family or friends on a Saturday night—just be aware that the trailer might not accurately represent what you’re getting. Rating: B-

Source on TMDB