Things that make me happy: Things that make me happy... Sherlock on BBC

Things that make me happy... Sherlock on the BBC

Sherlock is a british TV series that just completed its second season on the BBC One channel. Season one had 3 ninety minutes episodes that got critical recognition and won the UK's BAFTA 2011 award for best TV drama series. Although the series airs in the US on PBS, you can catch season one on DVD or Netflix. Season two should be out on DVD in early 2012.

The series, based on the Sir Author Conan Doyle stories, stars Benedict Cumberbatch (also featured in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Star Trek, and several other recent movies) as Sherlock and Martin Freeman (Bilbo Baggins, and several other British TV shows) as Dr. Watson. What makes this series work is Cumberbatch's portrayal of Holmes in modern day London. Not only does he capture Holmes uncanny genius, but also his social indifference to anything not relevant to the work at hand. Despite his rude, narcissistic tendencies, Sherlock is still charismatic and charming in his own way. The use of technology, edgy style, and new (and very clever) mysteries will keep you wanting more episodes each season.

Pros
1. Cumberbatch performance as Sherlock - Genius!!
2. The writing - Classic Holmes type mystery but more contemporary.
3. The look and feel. Very edgy and smart. Great use of technology (texting...email) to tell the story. Check out Dr. Watson online diary. Great integration of new media within the TV show.

Cons
1. The only produce 3 episodes a season. In the US this would be 20+ shows per season. One more reason against public television. No motivation to make money. Shameful.
2. Poor Marketing. So few people have hear about this series. But I think the word is getting out.

Unlocking Sherlock Part 1