The Irresistible Allure of Robert Downey Jr's Sherlock Holmes: 9 Compelling Reasons
Cumberbatch's Sherlock Holmes redefines the iconic detective with unparalleled brilliance A captivating blend of complexity, chemistry, and believability makes him the ultimate portrayal Prepare to be enthralled by Cumberbatch's stronger motivations and modern adaptation
Summary
Cumberbatch's Sherlock is more accurate to the original books' canon, with his physical description aligning with Doyle's description of the character.
The chemistry between Cumberbatch and Freeman in BBC Sherlock is exceptional, underscoring Watson's significance to Sherlock's persona.
Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock is enriched by the extended format of the TV series, enabling a more profound examination of the intricacies of his character.
Benedict Cumberbatch and Robert Downey Jr delivered commendable performances in their respective portrayals of Sherlock Holmes, but Cumberbatch's interpretation edges ahead in certain aspects. While there have been numerous films and TV series featuring the renowned detective and his loyal partner, Cumberbatch and Downey Jr have emerged as recent fan favorites. Since the Sherlock Holmes movies and the BBC Sherlock series were produced and released around the same period, they are frequently compared. Although both adaptations stand independently, they cannot be deemed entirely equal.
Downey Jr's first Sherlock Holmes film was released in 2009, followed by the BBC Sherlock series in 2010. Essentially, these are two distinct adaptations of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes books. The former injects the character with a charismatic quality, while the latter introduces a contemporary twist. Both versions, however, swiftly gained a devoted following and both Downey Jr and Cumberbatch brought to life a desirable, admirable, and captivating Sherlock Holmes. Determining the superior rendition is challenging, but upon close examination, Cumberbatch demonstrates excellence in specific areas.
9 Robert Downey Jr's Sherlock Is More Of An Action Hero
8 Benedict Cumberbatch's Modern Sherlock Works Better Today
- Physical Differences between Downey Jr and Cumberbatch's Sherlocks
With numerous screen adaptations of Sherlock Holmes, it is a challenge for a new one to leave a lasting impression. However, BBC's Sherlock successfully achieved this by reimagining Doyle's Victorian settings in a contemporary world. As a result, each renowned mystery that the iconic detective encountered could be modified to incorporate modern technology and popular culture, giving Cumberbatch's portrayal a sense of authenticity and relatability. This presentation shed a fresh light on a timeless character.
7 Benedict Cumberbatch Better Fits Holmes’ Book Description
6 Robert Downey Jr’s Sherlock Was Overly Romantic
In contrast to the original books' canon, the BBC adaptation of Sherlock is marked by excessive drama. The portrayal of Mary Watson as a secretive spy, the introduction of a problematic sister for the Holmes brothers, and the intensified emotional journey of John Watson were all departures from the original storyline. Nevertheless, when it comes to capturing Sherlock's physical appearance, Cumberbatch truly embodies the essence of the character. Despite Downey Jr's slightly shorter stature, in Arthur Conan Doyle's writings, Sherlock is described as tall with long limbs and slender fingers, making Cumberbatch a perfect fit.
Contrary to popular belief, Irene Adler wasn't portrayed as a love interest for Sherlock in the original Sherlock Holmes books. Instead, she was the only adversary who managed to outwit him, earning his utmost respect. While both Downey Jr and Cumberbatch's Sherlock versions had a romantic connection with their respective Irene counterparts, only RDJ's portrayal showcased overt feelings. Just like the canonical Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock's character was largely indifferent to physical attraction and romance, although he did display a slightly greater interest in Irene Adler.
5 Cumberbatch's Chemistry With Martin Freeman’s Watson Was Stronger
4 Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock Was More Complex
The success of the BBC Sherlock series was largely attributed to several factors, but it was ultimately the undeniable chemistry between Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock and Martin Freeman's John Watson that set it apart. Throughout various adaptations, this dynamic crime-solving duo has consistently been the focal point. However, what truly stood out was the special bond that these two actors shared. Unlike any previous portrayal, their performances conveyed the immense significance of Watson in Sherlock's life, and vice versa. While Jude Law's Watson merely appeared to tolerate Robert Downey Jr.'s Sherlock, Freeman's portrayal clearly depicted a Watson who couldn't imagine his life without Cumberbatch's detective.
The BBC adaptation of Sherlock Holmes' character showcases his quirks in an engaging manner. Unlike Downey Jr's portrayal, which was limited to two films, Cumberbatch's interpretation had the advantage of a longer format TV series. With 13 episodes, each lasting 90 minutes, there was ample time to delve into the intricacies of Sherlock's mind. This extended duration allowed for the development of a more complex and ultimately stronger character, akin to the depth found in the original Sherlock Holmes books.
3 Downey Jr's Sherlock Relies Too Much On RDJ's Charm
2 Cumberbatch’s Social Ineptitude Was More Believable
Despite his antisocial behavior, there is a certain charm to Sherlock Holmes' character. This holds true in the books as well, despite the detective's frequent indifference towards the opinions of others. Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock reflects this as well, as he unintentionally captivates those around him with his handsomeness and allure. On the other hand, Downey Jr.'s character presents a different side. The actor's natural charm, something he can never turn off, has led to criticism that his portrayal in Sherlock Holmes leans more towards a Victorian version of Tony Stark from Iron Man rather than an authentic Sherlock.
Due to Downey Jr's effortless charisma in all his roles, it was challenging to believe the moments in Sherlock Holmes where he was supposed to be socially inept. Although the character was still admired, similar to the books, the scenes where he offended those around him lacked authenticity. However, this was not the case for the BBC Sherlock. Perhaps because of the longer duration of the TV series, Cumberbatch's Sherlock was consistently abrasive and socially clueless from start to finish.
1 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Had Stronger Motivations
Known as Sherlock Holmes' primary rival, Professor Moriarty consistently pushes the detective to his limits in every adaptation. Whether in movies, BBC's Sherlock, or Doyle's books, Moriarty's ability to always be one step ahead fuels Sherlock's determination to bring him down. While Downey Jr's motivation in the movies stems from Irene Adler's death, a deviation from the original stories, the organic rivalry between Cumberbatch's Sherlock and Andrew Scott's Moriarty creates a palpable tension. Sherlock's desire to protect his loved ones from the villain adds depth to the intense dynamic.
