This isn't your father's 'Sherlock Holmes'

Posted Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at 12:48 PM Central

by John Couture

What is it about movies set in turn of the century Victorian England that make them immediately cooler than other movies? Today, Warner Bros. released their first trailer for Sherlock Holmes and we have it for viewing pleasure courtesy of the fine folks at Trailer Addict.

The stunning visuals aside (and yes, I do mean besides a lovely and barely clad Rachel McAdams), you will notice that director Guy Ritchie has chosen a different direction for his take on the master sleuthster. For starters, I always felt that Holmes was most often portrayed as a bit of a stuffy academician who used his wits and powers of deduction to help him solve crimes. But here, they are clearly bringing out the hedonistic side of Holmes that is definitely a great fit for actor Robert Downey, Jr..

And if you think you knew Dr. Watson, think again. Gone is the slovenly oaf and in his place is the dashing Jude Law who breaks all stereotypes with his first appearance in the trailer. Not only is he giving a swift kick to the locked door, but also all of our preconceived notions of what to expect from this movie.

To be honest, this was one of my highly anticipated movies of 2009 and this trailer has only fanned the flames of desire higher. So much for the clumsy "Elementary dear Watson," although I'm sure they will find a way to work that into the movie somehow.

It seems that Robert Downey, Jr. isn't going to cool off anytime soon. And this Christmas might be a different sort of Dickens experience at the megaplexes.

What do you think of the trailer? Also, are you looking forward to seeing Sherlock Holmes in theaters? Can't wait to Christmas? Check out these 14 images from the movie.