Elementary (2012– ) tv series review, story and analysis
History of Construction and Production Challenges
“Elementary” is a modern adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic Sherlock Holmes stories, set in contemporary New York City. The series was developed by Robert Doherty and premiered on CBS in 2012. Its construction was a delicate balance between honoring the original source material while infusing it with a fresh, modern twist. One of the primary challenges during construction was creating a unique interpretation of the iconic detective character, Sherlock Holmes, portrayed by Jonny Lee Miller. Additionally, the dynamic between Holmes and his partner, Dr. Joan Watson, played by Lucy Liu, needed to be reimagined for a contemporary audience. Despite these challenges, “Elementary” successfully carved its own niche in the Sherlock Holmes canon.
Actors and Their Roles
The core cast of “Elementary” features talented actors who bring the beloved characters of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Joan Watson to life:
- Jonny Lee Miller as Sherlock Holmes: A brilliant detective with exceptional deductive skills and a troubled past.
- Lucy Liu as Dr. Joan Watson: A former surgeon who becomes Sherlock’s sober companion and eventually his investigative partner.
- Aidan Quinn as Captain Thomas Gregson: The head of the New York City Police Department’s homicide division and Sherlock and Joan’s liaison.
- Jon Michael Hill as Detective Marcus Bell: A skilled detective who often works alongside Sherlock and Joan to solve cases.
These actors, along with a rotating cast of guest stars, deliver compelling performances that capture the essence of Conan Doyle’s iconic characters while adding depth and complexity to their portrayals.
General Concept
“Elementary” follows Sherlock Holmes and Joan Watson as they solve complex criminal cases in New York City using Holmes’s extraordinary powers of deduction and Watson’s medical expertise. Unlike other adaptations, “Elementary” places a strong emphasis on character development and explores the personal struggles and relationships of its protagonists. The series also delves into contemporary issues such as addiction, mental health, and the ethics of crime-solving, providing a modern twist on the classic detective genre.
Full Story
The series begins with Dr. Joan Watson, a former surgeon who is hired as a sober companion for Sherlock Holmes, a recovering drug addict. As Watson accompanies Holmes on his investigations, she becomes intrigued by his deductive abilities and eventually decides to become his investigative partner. Together, they form a formidable team, solving a wide array of cases ranging from homicides to corporate espionage.
Throughout the series, Holmes and Watson encounter various adversaries, including Moriarty, Holmes’s arch-nemesis, and other criminal masterminds. They also grapple with personal challenges, such as Holmes’s ongoing battle with addiction and Watson’s struggle to balance her medical career with her new role as a detective. Despite these obstacles, their partnership strengthens over time, as they learn to trust and rely on each other in both their professional and personal lives.
Criticism and Analysis
“Elementary” has received generally positive reviews from critics, who have praised its unique take on the Sherlock Holmes mythos and the chemistry between its lead actors. The series is commended for its well-written scripts, engaging mysteries, and thoughtful exploration of its characters’ inner lives. However, some critics have criticized the show for its departure from traditional Holmesian lore and its occasional reliance on formulaic procedural storytelling.
From an analytical perspective, “Elementary” offers an intriguing reinterpretation of the Sherlock Holmes character, exploring new facets of his personality and motivations. The series also delves into themes of redemption, friendship, and the nature of genius, posing thought-provoking questions about the ethics of crime-solving and the importance of human connection.
Opinion of Critics and Position Among Other Similar Series
Overall, “Elementary” has been well-received by critics and audiences alike, earning praise for its strong performances, clever writing, and innovative approach to the Sherlock Holmes canon. The series has carved out its own niche in the crowded landscape of Sherlock Holmes adaptations, standing out for its modern setting, diverse cast of characters, and compelling storytelling.
Similar Series
For viewers who have enjoyed “Elementary” and are looking for similar series to watch, there are several options to consider:
- “Sherlock” (2010–2017): This BBC series reimagines Sherlock Holmes in a contemporary setting, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson.
- “Mindhunter” (2017–2019): This Netflix series follows FBI agents as they interview serial killers to understand their psychology and solve ongoing cases.
- “Hannibal” (2013–2015): Based on the characters from Thomas Harris’s novels, this NBC series follows FBI special investigator Will Graham as he enlists the help of psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter to solve grisly murders.
- “Forever” (2014–2015): This ABC series follows Dr. Henry Morgan, a medical examiner who is immortal, as he solves crimes in New York City while grappling with his own mysterious past.
- “White Collar” (2009–2014): This USA Network series follows Neal Caffrey, a charming con artist, as he teams up with FBI agent Peter Burke to solve white-collar crimes.
