The Strange Case of Sherlock Holmes & Arthur Conan Doyle

The movie, The Strange Case of Sherlock Holmes & Arthur Conan Doyle, explores the complex relationship between the creator of the famous detective, Arthur Conan Doyle, and his most beloved character, Sherlock Holmes. Set in the early 20th century, the film offers a glimpse into the mind of a literary genius and his tumultuous struggle to come to terms with his own creation.

The plot of the movie revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a young woman and the subsequent investigation carried out by Conan Doyle's friend, Dr. Joseph Bell (played by John Bett), who is said to be the inspiration behind Sherlock Holmes. The story unfolds through a series of flashbacks and intercuts between the present-day investigation and the past, where we see Conan Doyle (played by Tim McInnerny) struggling with his own demons as he attempts to reconcile with the overwhelming success of the Sherlock Holmes character and the darker side of his own personality.

One of the central themes of the movie is the blurred boundary between fact and fiction. It is clear that Conan Doyle is heavily invested in his creation, so much so that at times, he seems to blur the lines between the character and reality. There are moments when we see Conan Doyle acting out Sherlock Holmes' mannerisms and behavior, suggesting a deep identification with his fictional protagonist. At the same time, we see him struggling with the consequences of his creation, especially when it comes to the impact it has on his personal life.

The movie also explores the idea of literary fame and its pitfalls. We see Conan Doyle grappling with the fact that he's become a household name, but his work has overshadowed everything else he's ever done. There are moments of self-doubt and a desperate desire to break away from the character that has taken over his life. However, he also seems to be aware of the power he wields as a writer, and there is a sense that he's not willing to let go of the fame and accolades that come with it.

The acting in the film is superb, with Tim McInnerny delivering an excellent performance as Arthur Conan Doyle. He captures the author's complex personality with precision, portraying him as a man who is deeply conflicted and struggling to come to terms with his own creation. John Bett is also fantastic as Dr. Joseph Bell, playing the character with quiet confidence and understated intelligence. Emily Blunt, who plays Doyle's love interest, is a welcome addition to the cast, although she doesn't have as much screen time as the other two actors.

The cinematography is another highlight of the movie. The film has a muted, almost sepia-toned color palette that perfectly captures the period setting. The scenes are beautifully shot, with attention paid to even the smallest details, making the movie feel like a period piece rather than a modern interpretation of the past.

Overall, The Strange Case of Sherlock Holmes & Arthur Conan Doyle is a gripping exploration of the complexities of fame and the creative process. It offers a unique perspective on one of the most iconic literary characters of all time while providing insights into the mind of the man who created him. The movie is a must-watch for fans of Sherlock Holmes lore and anyone who appreciates excellent acting and beautiful cinematography.