Review of The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes (1970) by Patrick H — 20 Jan 2009

Master director Billy Wilder's take on the Sherlock Holmes mythos is perhaps better known in film cirlces for what it could've been, rather than what it is. Envisioned and shot as a three-hour epic with a number of interlocking stories, the film was eventually whittled down to its present form, with all the additional material seemingly lost.

However, I found what remains holds together just fine as a strong, dynamic film that plays largely fair with Holmes lore. Wilder's sensibility is felt in his sly toying with the personal details of Holmes' life that Conan Doyle left largely blank.

And, while it takes some adjusting to, Robert Stephens' arch, slightly-effeminate portrayal makes sense in this context. Colin Blakely is also a splendid, intelligent Dr. Watson with a couple of very funny scenes.

Finally, the film is elevated by its terrific production design, cinematography, and especially the GREAT, violin-driven score by Miklos Rozsa. So see this for what it is first, then check out the DVD extras to learn about what it might've been.

I think the best parts survived intact.