Sherlock

Better Sherlock Holmes: Robert Downey, Jr. or Benedict Cumberbatch?

Sherlock Holmes is one of the most time-honored literary characters since his first appearance in “A Study in Scarlet” in Beeton’s Christmas Annual in 1887.  Sherlock has influenced many characters in today’s society. The characters Greg House from the TV series “House” and Shawn Spencer from the series “Psych” were both inspired by Sherlock Holmes.  Many actors have portrayed the character of Mr. Holmes, but there have been two great actors of our time who have done an especially great job at bringing Sherlock to life.  First, Robert Downey, Jr.’s interpretation of Holmes in the film series has really helped bring the character out to the mainstream audience. The second is Benedict Cumberbatch, who stars in the BBC television series “Sherlock.” He has reinvented Holmes in a refreshing way, as the series is set in modern day London.

            So, the question is, who is better at being the great Sherlock Holmes?

Both actors have done their research prior to portraying Holmes because they have both nailed the character perfectly. It’s their differences, though, that cause audiences to take sides on which Sherlock is their favorite.  Robert Downey, Jr. has a little more dry wit about him, whereas Cumberbatch’s humor comes from the angle of awkwardness that he takes. Also, another angle to consider is how the directors of each influence the character of Holmes. In the films, Guy Ritchie brings out Sherlock’s deductive skills by a slow motion inner monologue that Downey executes perfectly. In the television series, director Toby Haynes takes a completely different perspective where he shows Sherlock’s thoughts on screen instead of as inner monologue.

            In my opinion, both are great. Downey’s Holmes is more comical, whereas Cumberbatch’s portrayal is more awkward and intelligent. Both portrayals would make Conan Doyle very proud. I think the decision of this question is up to the reader. You decide which Holmes is better and comment on this blog and let me know what you think. The game is afoot!

                                                                                                Signing off,

                                                                                                            Derek Hale