The show centers on the life of the iconic fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, who has relocated to New York City after finishing his drug rehabilitation program in London. He is accompanied by his sober companion Joan Watson, who is hired by Holmes’s wealthy father to help him stay clean. Unlike the original story, Joan Watson is depicted as a woman instead of a man.
Throughout the show, the dynamic between Sherlock and Watson evolves, as they work together to solve complex crimes for the NYPD. The show’s writers did an excellent job of creating a compelling backstory for each of the characters, which allowed viewers to get invested in their lives and narratives.
One of the best things about Elementary is its modern take on the original source material. The show’s creators have taken the iconic character of Sherlock Holmes and reimagined him in a way that is both relevant and interesting to modern audiences. The show’s treatment of drug addiction and mental health issues was particularly noteworthy. Holmes’s struggles with addiction and Watson’s background as a former surgeon who left the medical profession due to psychological trauma were portrayed in a sensitive and respectful way.
Another strength of the show was its supporting cast of characters. Each of them had their own quirks and idiosyncrasies, which made them memorable and entertaining. One of the standout characters was Captain Thomas Gregson (Aidan Quinn), the head of the NYPD’s 11th precinct. As a former narcotics detective, Gregson had a great respect for Holmes’s abilities and was often willing to look the other way when the detective bent the rules to get results.
The show also explored Holmes’s relationships with other women, including his former lover Irene Adler (Natalie Dormer). Adler was depicted as a brilliant and independent woman who was a match for Holmes in every way. Her reappearance in Holmes’s life was a turning point for the character, as it forced him to confront his unresolved emotional issues and face his addiction head-on.
Despite its strong following, the show received some criticism from traditionalists who felt that the portrayal of Sherlock Holmes was too far removed from the original source material. However, the show’s writers countered that they were trying to create a new vision of the character that captured the essence of Conan Doyle’s creation while updating it for modern audiences.
In conclusion, Elementary was an excellent television series that provided a fresh perspective on the iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes. The show’s blending of modern storytelling with classic themes was a success, and the characters’ struggles with addiction and mental health added depth to the stories. Elementary will be fondly remembered by its fans, who appreciated its unique approach to the beloved character of Sherlock Holmes.