FREE ESSAY ON ESCAPISM IN YOUNG SHERLOCK HOLMES

ESCAPISM IN YOUNG SHERLOCK HOLMES

A simple adventure film is made into much more in "Young Sherlock Holmes." The special
effects employed accentuate the escapist qualities that exist within the movie. The
mystery begins when a few certain men are injected with a hallucinogen and they imagine
inanimate objects coming alive and trying to kill them. Among other things, a man
imagines his dinner attacking him and another sees a stained glass figure come alive and
try to kill him. All of the men injected with the hallucinogen end up dead. This results
from their reactions to the drug. Throughout the movie, not only are these men targeted
and attacked with the drug, but so are the three main characters: Holmes, Watson and
Elizabeth. All three experience delusions that are very real to them. The viewer can also
see what the men are seeing.
What makes the film more fantastic is the scenery. It is set in London in the 19th
century; the streets, shops, and buildings all have a Victorian quality to them. The
clothing is also in a distinct Victorian fashion. All this makes it possible for the
viewer to get lost within the world the film creates. The unrealistic plot line and
implausibility of any real life situation do not detract from the film; it makes it more
enjoyable. 
"Young Sherlock Holmes" is an adventure movie, but also a fantasy. It is obviously
unrealistic, but that is not what is most important. A movie thrives on flights of the
imagination. It is not to be analyzed; else, it loses its appeal. It is likable, charming
and engaging. It takes hold of the viewer's attention and holds it by whimsical effects,
scenery and dialogue.