Ep 4. Sherlock Season 3, The Empty Hearse

Sherlock Holmes is back! The beloved detective returns in the highly anticipated Season 3 premiere of the hit series Sherlock. In this episode, "The Empty Hearse," Sherlock resurfaces from his supposed death and reunites with his best friend and partner, Dr. John Watson.

The episode begins with a thrilling sequence in which an underground terrorist plot is thwarted by Mycroft Holmes, Sherlock's brother and a high-ranking government official. It's then revealed that Sherlock has been hiding in exile for two years, having faked his own death to protect his friends and loved ones from his enemies. When a terrorist group threatens to blow up Parliament, Sherlock decides it's time to return to London and save the day.

But things aren't as easy as they seem. Sherlock's return causes a stir in London, with everyone from the press to his loyal fans demanding answers about his disappearance. Meanwhile, Dr. Watson has moved on and is now engaged to Mary Morstan, a woman he met during Sherlock's absence. Though he's happy for his friend, Sherlock can't shake the feeling of betrayal and jealousy that comes with being replaced.

As Sherlock investigates the terrorist group, he also attempts to reconcile with Dr. Watson. Their reunion is a touching scene, with both men showing their vulnerability and admitting to their own faults. The chemistry between Sherlock and Watson is as strong as ever, providing some much-needed humor and heart amidst the tense plot.

One of the standout moments of the episode is Sherlock's theory about how he survived his fall. The show plays with various scenarios, ranging from the plausible to the absurd, leaving viewers guessing until the very end. The reveal is a satisfying payoff for fans who have been eagerly anticipating an explanation.

Overall, "The Empty Hearse" is a fantastic start to Season 3. It's witty, thrilling, and emotional, with excellent performances from Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. The episode sets up intriguing storylines for the rest of the season, including the introduction of new characters and the return of old ones. Fans of the show won't be disappointed.