Watch Sherlock Holmes: The Eligible Bachelor

Sherlock Holmes: The Eligible Bachelor is a television movie produced by Granada Television in 1993, starring Jeremy Brett as the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. The movie is based on the characters created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and it is part of the long-running Granada series of adaptations that aired from 1984 to 1994.

The plot revolves around the unexpected marriage of Holmes's longtime friend Dr. John Watson (played by Edward Hardwicke), which leaves Holmes feeling lonely and at loose ends. However, his solitude is soon interrupted by the arrival of an old flame, Lady Felicity (played by Joanna McCallum), who asks for his help in finding her missing fiance, Lord Robert St. Simon (played by Simon William). St. Simon disappeared on his wedding day under mysterious circumstances, and Lady Felicity fears foul play.

As the investigation unfolds, Holmes and Watson uncover a web of secrets and lies that implicates several members of the aristocracy, including a famous music hall singer named Isadora Klein (played by Anna Calder-Marshall) and St. Simon's own stepfather, the wealthy and eccentric Lord St. Simon (played by Robert Hardy). Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, from a nosy landlady to a conniving maid, and must use their wit, deduction skills, and occasional brawn to solve the case and save the day.

One of the strengths of Sherlock Holmes: The Eligible Bachelor is its attention to detail and faithful recreation of the late 19th-century setting. From the elegant costumes and decor to the use of horse-drawn carriages and gas lamps, the production values are top-notch and transport the viewer to a bygone era. The cinematography, too, is impressive, with moody lighting, clever camera angles, and occasional nods to classic film noir. The music, by composer Patrick Gowers, is haunting and atmospheric, and adds to the overall immersive experience.

Of course, the heart of any Holmes story is the character himself, and Jeremy Brett delivers a tour-de-force performance as the great detective. Brett had played Holmes in all of the Granada productions and was widely regarded as one of the most iconic interpreters of the role. In The Eligible Bachelor, he is in top form, displaying Holmes's signature quirks and mannerisms, as well as his inner turmoil and conflicted emotions. The chemistry between Brett and Hardwicke is also a highlight, as they play off each other with wit and affection, and lend the story its moments of humor and pathos.

The supporting cast is also strong, with McCallum bringing a sense of urgency and vulnerability to Lady Felicity, and Hardy chewing the scenery as the eccentric Lord St. Simon. William's portrayal of the missing groom adds a note of mystery and intrigue, while Calder-Marshall's turn as the music hall singer is both sultry and sinister. Other notable appearances include Rosalie Williams as Holmes's landlady, Colin Jeavons as Inspector Lestrade, and Jonathan Cecil as a pompous wedding guest.

Overall, Sherlock Holmes: The Eligible Bachelor is a satisfying and enjoyable mystery that will please fans of the genre and the character. It may not be the most groundbreaking or innovative Holmes adaptation out there, but it is a solid entry in the Granada series and a testament to the enduring appeal of Conan Doyle's creation. Whether you are a longtime follower of the Baker Street detective or a newcomer to his world, this movie is worth checking out.

Sherlock Holmes: The Eligible Bachelor is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between February 25, 2003 and on Granada Television