By Ben Wright (@iamzavagno | www.xgeeks.co.uk)
This review is spoiler-free.
After a moderately successful start, although not without some missteps, Enola Holmes is back with a second instalment that is looking to take the franchise to the next level with the Netflix viewing audience.
It feels that with Enola Holmes 2 they have found their rhythm, as some of the issues I had with the first movie have been fixed. The overall tone of the movie was really on point – it was quippy and exciting and the pacing was well executed! The movie benefits from no longer being shackled or weighed down by having to introduce and establish the main characters and world. We dive straight into the action and story, with any new character introductions scattered throughout, making the whole narrative flow much better. I also really like that the film continues to keep to feminist overtones within the story and characters.
As for the cast, Millie Bobby Brown (Enola Holmes) is much more likeable this time around, and I think they have ironed out some of the flaws with the character and writing that was present in the first film. She is a very solid and dependable lead, and I very much enjoyed her in this role as she continues to refine and develop her character. Just like in the previous movie, Susie Wokoma (Edith) was one of the standout performers and is such a strong presence during all of her scenes. Henry Cavill (Sherlock Holmes) and Helena Bonham Carter (Eduoria Holmes), much like in their previous outing, are once again great supporting characters. When it comes to the antagonists, you can’t go wrong with casting David Thewlis (Superintendent Grail) and after his stunning portrayal in The Sandman, it was good to see him back on my screen!
In terms of the visuals and production, the continuity between the first and second movies is very consistent. From the cinematography and editing to the sets and costumes, everything feels slick and well produced – with the lighting, during the night scenes, being particularly really well executed!
Is there room for an Enola Holmes 3? Most definitely and it is something I would very much welcome. I suppose this is all down to how well this movie does and what Netflix’s appetite is. There are certainly plenty more source material stories to pull from, should they wish to continue with the franchise. It is clear there is a passion from the cast and crew for Enola Holmes, so hopefully, they are allowed to continue on this journey.
Enola Holmes 2 fixes the issues found in the previous instalment and is much stronger for it! Exceptional pacing and editing, infused with some wonderful performances leave plenty of appetite for more Enola Holmes stories in the future!
X-Geeks 