Watch Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four

The 1987 adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's novel, "The Sign of Four," brings to life the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes, played by Jeremy Brett, alongside Dr. John Watson, played by Edward Hardwicke, in a gripping tale of mystery and adventure. The movie is set in 1888, amidst the bustle and grime of London's streets. A young woman named Mary Morstan, played by Jenny Seagrove, seeks the help of Holmes and Watson to solve a mysterious case. Her father, an officer in the Indian army, disappeared ten years ago under strange circumstances, leaving behind a large treasure which only now has begun to be delivered to her once a year in the form of valuable pearls.

Holmes and Watson are drawn into the case, which only thickens as they discover that their client is being followed by an unknown man. They learn that the pearls, which have been delivered over the years, are all part of a complex puzzle that points to a larger treasure --- one which holds great power.

The pair embark on a thrilling journey to unravel the clues and discover the truth behind the disappearance of Morstan's father. Along the way, they encounter a collection of eccentric characters, from a highly eccentric and somewhat sinister gentleman named Thaddeus Sholto, played by Jonathan Coy, to an exotic beauty named Hoppy, played by Rosalie Williams.

The movie features stunning visuals, shot on location in London, capturing the gloomy atmosphere and urban chaos of Victorian England. The story unfolds at a steady pace, keeping the audience captivated with every turn of events.

Jeremy Brett perfectly embodies the persona of Sherlock Holmes, showcasing his intelligence, sharp wit, and relentless determination. He brings to life the character's unique quirks, mannerisms, and iconic phrases, such as the famous line, "Elementary, my dear Watson." Edward Hardwicke is an excellent complement to Brett's performance as Dr. Watson, providing a solid grounded presence that balances Brett's eccentricity.

Robin Hunter delivers an exceptional performance as the villain of the story, a creepy and cunning antagonist who keeps the audience on edge with his every move. His darker side contrasts and adds to the light-hearted charm of the detective duo.

The movie retains the spirit of Doyle's original work, which stands today as one of the greatest mysteries of all time. The scriptwriters have done an excellent job, relying on the source material to create a believable and captivating storyline. The suspense builds with every scene, culminating in an exciting finale that leaves the audience satisfied and wanting more.

Overall, "Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four" is a must-see for fans of the Detective genre. The gripping storyline, excellent performances, and stunning visuals make this movie a true masterpiece that stands the test of time.

Sherlock Holmes: The Sign of Four is a 1987 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.