The Hounds of Baskerville

The first season tapered off after a great beginning. Any doubts about this season disappointing after the superb Scandal in Belgravia is dispelled with an even better Hound of Baskerville. Holmes and Watson go out in search of a mysterious animal which has tormented a man since his childhood. Like all episodes in this franchise, there is plenty of humour, suspense and intelligence, but this one also manages to be a little scary. It is indeed great to see two wonderful stories this season, which leads us to the final one, where Holmes battles the original you-know-who. How exciting is it for Sherlock Holmes fans to get a fun movie and this series almost back-to-back. Great stuff.

Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson head down to Dartmoor to investigate the case of a young man who is convinced that his father was killed 20 years earlier by a giant, red-eyed hound. Furthermore, he has recently been confronted by the animal himself. Holmes is skeptical - the description given is not possible - but investigates anyway. Prime suspect - the local Army base, where scientists are performing genetic experiments on animals.

Quite dark and very intriguing. Tension-filled with a sinister undertone, there's hardly a dull moment in this episode.

Holmes shows some vulnerability for once - about the only other time we've seen it was in A Scandal in Balgravia and there it was for different reasons...

Quite enthralling from start to finish.

Found this episode far more captivating than any other so far. The plot was flawless and action at every turn, brilliant. Many others felt as though the episode was dry and unintentionally humourless, but I feel as though it's the best possible modern representation of the famous "hounds of Baskerville" the original book was almost renowned for. Only improvement I feel would be if there were more deaths/ injuries, as it would've definitely enhanced the horror theme, as I felt as though the characters were under no real threat the entire time, and that there was far too much "plot armour" ensuring the characters weren't harmed, however coincidentally.

An interesting way to place "The Hound of the Baskervilles" in the 21st century. In my opinion, this story should be a bit more creepy, but certainly very well done.

8/10

I dont think I have ever seen anything that Benedict has been in. He is incredible in this series. If he is this good of an actor I will have to start watching more of his films. He is such a delight to watch. Where to start.

Firstly he is visually stunning to look at. He has a kind face even though he doesn't act kind most of the time. He delivers his lines to perfection, cadence, tone and all. And I have to add, he is hilarious!!!

Of course his relationship with Watson is great and feels very natural. Ying and Yang if you will. I love the ambiguous nature of his sexuality. Also love how he explains his observations. They always make so much sense. Also love how him and Watson are always thought to be a couple.

I'm still watching this episode but I'm sure it will be smashing!!

I haven't enjoyed a series as much as I have enjoyed watching this one in a long time. This makes Vera and others seem....tedious.