Customer Reviews

THe Return of Sherlock Holmes: Priory School [VHS]

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

I'm 25 and have enjoyed this series and the stories since I was about 10. While this dramatization isn't totally faithful to the original by Conan Doyle, I'm still not sure if I enjoy the episode or the story better! Nevertheless it is one of my favorite in the TV series and I recommend it to any Holmes fan or even those who like a good mystery. An excellent hour to spend.

When Sherlock Holmes finds a distraught school-master barging into his room, it's the start of his involvement in the disappearance of the son of the famed Duke of Holdernesse's son. But, the Duke's aversion to any publicity necessitates that Holmes keep a low profile. What are the Duke's real concerns, and what has happened to the German master who disappeared the same night? There's a deep mystery here, and only Sherlock Holmes can get to the bottom of it!

Every once in a while, an actor comes along who not only plays the role of Sherlock Holmes, but actually redefines the role. In 1984, veteran actor Jeremy Brett (1933-95) actually did it yet again! This fifty-minute episode, the Priory School, was episode six of the third season, and originally aired on August 13, 1986. (By the way, if you like Jeremy Brett, you can see him in an entirely different role in My Fair Lady (1964) as Freddie Eynsford-Hill!)

I loved this tape and think that any fan of Sherlock Holmes, or just plain fan of mysteries, will love it, too. My family and I highly recommend it to you!

This beautifully photographed and acted episode has atmosphere to spare, but I wish they had left in the original ending where Holmes grossly overcharges his client after the man insults him! Holmes, and Lord Holdernesse, are much more sympathetic characters in this adaptation.

At least they cut the nonsense about the bicycle tires that marred the original tale....

Edward Hardwicke is excellent as Watson and this is one episode where the contrast between the practical (and frequently hungry) Doctor and the cerebral and imperious Detective is particularly well established.

Excellent plot, acting and setting. The characters are well defined and acted - even the uncouth innkeeper is memorable. The school's setting, the lonely moors, the Duke's splendid home - all combine to create great atmosphere. It is well photographed and the plot is convoluted enough to hold the attention and keep the mind busy to the end. Jeremy Brett and Edwarde Hardwicke at their best.