steve83-1

Although just as engaging and entertaining as the rest of the series, this plot has far too many holes to meet the standard set in the first season. Holmes' conclusions are too fantastic; his methods are highly questionable; his assumptions often factually incorrect; and his last source of information is pure magic. I hope this isn't a sign of things to come... But since this episode appears to merely set up future intrigue with the introduction of new old characters and an open-ended investigation regarding a larger conspiracy, the weak plot is almost forgivable, provided these implied story lines are developed further. I give the writers an "E" for effort, but a "D" for creativity and quality.

Where have I seen this plot before, and why is Carell mimicking Lugosi? Oh, yeah... Flip the scared dog character to a vicious dog character, and replace him with a million yellow marshmallows, change Boris to Bela, add some competition (instead of a beloved holiday) to raise the drama, and VOILA! You've got a whole new original movie! (NOT) I don't mind a new take on an old story, but I really felt let-down after watching the trailers that seemed to suggest this was a new & unique story. And the bonus features also seem to break their arms patting themselves on the back for originality. The film IS entertaining & amusing, but you don't need me or anyone else to tell you what happens - you've seen it at least once a year for your whole life. Either the cartoon version with Karloff's voice, or the live-action version with Jim Carey. Both of which I found more entertaining that this one.

Is this comment a spoiler? Well, I'm not going to reveal the real killer, but then again: neither does this movie. Just like Pearl Harbor & Titanic, this movie has nothing to do with the famous historical event in its title - it only piggy-backs onto that fame to pawn off another mediocre love story to unsuspecting male moviegoers who are looking for a date-movie with a little entertainment value. Unfortunately, this one is too convoluted & unsatisfying to qualify for any value, and it's too gory to be a good date-movie. If you want a satisfying movie in this vein, try Lonely Hearts - it's not only historically-accurate; it's actually ABOUT a relationship, and has a real link to the true story, but I don't want to spoil it for you!