Unlocking the Iconic Evolution: Benedict Cumberbatch's Enigmatic Transformation of Sherlock Holmes
Cumberbatch's Sherlock Holmes introduces a fresh take on the iconic character, bringing nuanced changes that add depth and complexity From his drug addiction and unique relationship with Irene Adler to his emotional vulnerability and preference for cigarettes, Cumberbatch's portrayal breathes new life into the beloved detective
Summary
There are many differences between Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock and Arthur Conan Doyle's character.
In contrast to the original character, Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock develops a romantic chemistry with Irene Adler, while maintaining his decidedly unkind demeanor initially. However, as the story progresses, he undergoes a significant transformation and becomes emotionally vulnerable.
Sherlock revolutionized the renowned detective in the contemporary era, with Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal bringing notable alterations to the original character. In 2010, Cumberbatch assumed the iconic deerstalker hat and became Sherlock Holmes in the BBC series created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss. Sherlock spanned four seasons, consisting of a limited number of but extensive episodes, and reimagined some of Sherlock Holmes's most renowned narratives. Alongside familiar figures like John Watson, Mycroft Holmes, Irene Adler, and Jim Moriarty, Sherlock introduced numerous fresh characters.
The modernization of Holmes necessitated changes to both characters and storylines. "The Hounds of Baskerville" transitioned from a tale depicting an actual hound to one centered around a chemical substance that influenced individuals' perceptions of their surroundings. Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes has gained popularity among many as their preferred adaptation of the detective, often drawing comparisons to Robert Downey Jr.'s Sherlock due to their close release dates. However, when contrasted with Arthur Conan Doyle's original Sherlock Holmes, Cumberbatch's portrayal exhibits numerous distinctions. If Sherlock season 5 materializes, the list of disparities between Cumberbatch's interpretation and the original character could potentially expand even further.
10 Cumberbatch's Sherlock Drug Addiction Changes Canon
The original Sherlock Holmes was known to occasionally use drugs, particularly opium, as a way to pass the time when he was bored and taking a break from his cases. In contrast, Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock depicts a drug addiction, which deviates from the original canon. Nowhere in the original works is it suggested that Sherlock was addicted to opium; instead, it was merely a form of escape from his real addiction, his work. However, in Cumberbatch's interpretation, Sherlock frequently references his past addiction and recovery. In season 3, episode 3, "His Last Vow," the story begins with Sherlock being discovered in an opium den, having relapsed back into drug use. Although Sherlock is working undercover, he still has abnormally high levels of the drug in his system.
9 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Has A Form Of Relationship With Irene Adler
Irene Adler, featured in A Scandal in Bohemia, is an iconic character from the Sherlock Holmes stories. Despite her brief appearance, she holds a prominent place in Sherlock's world. Adler, with her remarkable intellect, manages to outwit Sherlock and his intricately laid traps, earning both his admiration and respect. Contrary to the original Sherlock, who exhibits no interest in women, Cumberbatch's portrayal suggests a faint romantic chemistry between Adler and Sherlock. This implied connection becomes evident when Sherlock is willing to risk his own life to save her. It is clear that Cumberbatch's Sherlock harbors emotions for Adler that the original character does not.
8 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Cares More Deeply For John Watson
John Watson, initially described as Sherlock's "intimate friend" in the books, shares a close bond with him as a trusted colleague. However, Sherlock's perspective on John evolves, transforming their relationship into something deeper and more meaningful. As their connection deepens, John becomes the person closest to Sherlock's heart. This is evident when Sherlock assumes the role of John's best man in the third series, displaying a genuine sense of duty and commitment. Their friendship plays a significant role in shaping Sherlock's behavior, deviating from the portrayal in the original books.
7 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Starts As Quite A Hurtful Character
Sherlock Holmes is known for his aloof nature and absence of certain personal emotions. However, Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock takes this to another level by presenting him as a highly hurtful character. While the original Sherlock may occasionally lack politeness, he always maintains a sense of civility. In contrast, Cumberbatch's Sherlock is consistently rude, mean, and frequently inflicts pain on those who care about him. One clear example of this is his continuous belittlement of Molly Hooper, who clearly harbors strong feelings for him. Cumberbatch's Sherlock exhibits an arrogance that has become central to his character, marking a significant departure from the original depiction of Sherlock Holmes.
6 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Becomes Emotionally Vulnerable
5 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Does Not Actually Wear The Deerstalker Hat
In contrast, Cumberbatch skillfully portrays a more emotionally vulnerable version of Sherlock throughout the four seasons. While the original Sherlock is kinder, he does not undergo the same emotional journey. Cumberbatch's portrayal often allows his emotions to overshadow his logic, which ultimately becomes a weapon against him, as seen in series 3, episode 1, "The Empty Hearse," when he rescues John from the bonfire. The deep care he demonstrates for his close-knit group of friends becomes a defining aspect of his character, highlighting the compassionate persona that lies beneath his arrogant exterior.
Sherlock Holmes’ deerstalker hat is an iconic feature of his character, along with his pipe. These props have become instantly recognizable. In Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Sherlock, the deerstalker hat is cleverly used to evade the press. Throughout the series, the hat becomes an ongoing joke. However, it is important to note that Cumberbatch’s Sherlock does not wear the hat intentionally or for detective purposes. This can be attributed to the modern setting of the series, as deerstalkers are not commonly worn in 21st-century England. Nonetheless, the inclusion of the hat serves as a respectful homage to the classic while highlighting the evolution of Cumberbatch’s Sherlock.
4 The Original Sherlock Is Not As Anti-Social As Cumberbatch’s
3 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Is Widely Disliked By His Peers
In contrast to modern adaptations, the original Sherlock Holmes displayed a remarkable level of politeness and empathy towards his fearful clients. He carried with him the essence of mandatory old English manners, occasionally deviating from them while working on a case, but without embodying the anti-social nature found in Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Sherlock. Over time, Holmes' occasional disregard for social pleasantries has been twisted, painting him as a character who is rude and dismissive. Cumberbatch's interpretation of the detective encapsulates this notion, as he frequently disregards and condescends to individuals whom he deems less intelligent than himself. However, the original Sherlock Holmes commanded widespread respect and was regarded as a generous individual.
Scotland Yard is consistently irritated by Cumberbatch's Sherlock, as he continually outshines the police officers. Rather than being impressed by his intellect, people develop a deep hostility towards him. In "The Reichenbach Fall," episode 3 of series 2, police officers Anderson and Donovan lead a relentless pursuit of Sherlock, driven by their exhaustion with his behavior. Unlike the original Sherlock Holmes, who was respected and trusted by his peers, Cumberbatch's version constantly faces doubt and animosity from the nation. This prevailing disdain for the detective is the root cause.
2 The Original Sherlock Holmes Does Not Have A Mind Palace
1 Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Favors Cigarettes Over Pipes
Sherlock Holmes is undoubtedly a brilliant individual, a common trait across different adaptations. However, the means by which he acquires and retains information remains a source of curiosity for other characters. In the original stories, John Watson describes Sherlock's ability to retain knowledge as though he has an empty attic, selectively storing information or belongings. Nevertheless, the precise method Sherlock employs to gather this information is never divulged. In the TV series Sherlock, portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch, the character possesses a "Mind Palace" where he can mentally access past knowledge to retrieve what he needs. This concept of the Mind Palace almost serves as a tangible explanation for Sherlock's exceptional intellect, but it is a relatively recent addition to the esteemed detective's persona.
Holmes' pipe is another iconic feature that Sherlock revamps. In "The Abominable Bride," a vintage rendition of Sherlock, Cumberbatch's portrayal pays homage to the pipe. However, Sherlock puts a modern spin on this particular aspect by transforming the famous pipe into cigarettes. While Cumberbatch's Sherlock attempts to quit smoking and often relies on nicotine patches, he doesn't hesitate to share a cigarette with his brother, Mycroft. There are even scenes depicting Cumberbatch's Sherlock with a whole pack (or more) of cigarettes in his mouth. Although Sherlock still acknowledges the essence of the original depiction, Cumberbatch's portrayal is undeniably more contemporary.
