Movie Review: Enola Holmes

You don’t often see a mystery movie that’s light-hearted, empowering and comedic at the same time, but “Enola Holmes” directed by Harry Bradbeer checks these boxes flawlessly. Whether it’s the movie’s beautiful setting or its well thought out characters, this movie leaves you satisfied until its conclusion.

The film follows a teenager named Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown), who lives in 19th century England. During the movie, Enola’s mother goes missing, and she must go on a journey to find her. However, Enola encounters many obstacles along the way, most of which have to do with the sexist beliefs in England at the time. She’s constantly mocked for her “impolite manners,” or is ordered to “dress properly.” This makes for a very interesting story, because Enola must battle against false beliefs in order to reach her end goal.

Enola isn’t the only interesting character, though. Her brothers, Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft (Sam Claflin), are also very compelling. Mycroft is the typical character foil to Enola. Instead of being a young, curious and rebellious teenager like his sister, he’s an old, comfortable and privileged man. Throughout the movie you watch him scold Enola for being “unwomanly,” and he’s a character that you’ll love to hate.

Sherlock (Henry Cavill), on the other hand, is the far more interesting brother of the two. Like his sister, he possesses a rebellious nature, along with the innate ability to notice small details. Both Enola and Sherlock make great detectives, but what makes Sherlock more interesting are his differences. Sherlock is far more comfortable with society, since he has no sexist beliefs against him and therefore he has no reason to let out his rebellious side. As a result, he doesn’t do anything to defend his younger sister’s feminist beliefs, and he eventually becomes a side antagonist like his older brother.

Characters aren’t the only thing that make a movie good, however. Sometimes the aesthetic of the movie can be just as important. In terms of its setting, “Enola Holmes” is incredibly beautiful. The large open fields of England and the protrusive, recently industrialized city of London contrast each other greatly. They make every moment in each respective setting far more special. Whether it’s the large factories in the distance, or the calming, rolling hills in the background, you’re always looking into minor details and enjoying each moment you see. 

Overall, if you’re looking for a movie to watch in quarantine, or you need something to occupy the spare time of your day, then watching “Enola Holmes” will no doubt get the job done. Its great setting design, and well-written characters are bound to give you some enjoyment, and there’s not a chance that you’ll be disappointed.