Sherlock & Daughter

I think most books, movies and some TV shows could be improved with maps. This one uses maps to illustrate old London and even a carriage chase. Well done.

I'm very forgiving with Sherlock stories. I was able to enjoy Sherlock and Elementary at the same time, but I can't stomach the Will Ferrell abomination. I suggest "Smarter Brother" and "Without a Clue" for a humorous Holmes. And I still miss Houdini and Doyle, but I digress.

This Holmes is older but still rude, egocentric and logical. I like that he does not accept the young American as his daughter ('You are not the first to make this claim") but finds her useful to investigate his case. Also we work with the same clues as Holmes. The main problem is extending the mystery across 8 episodes. The middle does bog down a bit. It would be better to have 2 four episode arcs. This is still an entertaining effort that I can recommend to a Holmes fan.

Sherlock & Daughter (Season 1, 2025, 7.3/10) is an attempt to reinterpret the Sherlock Holmes universe through the lens of family drama - an idea that sounds intriguing on paper but ultimately leaves mixed feelings. Introducing a sudden "daughter" into Holmes's life is a risky move, and while the series tries to balance classic elements with new themes, the execution doesn't always withstand the tension between them.

The show's main strength lies in its acting. David Thewlis is perfectly cast as Holmes: his portrayal of the detective is more weathered by time, more human, yet still retains the familiar cold sharpness. Blu Hunt as Amelia brings a refreshing energy: her character is independent, determined, and provides a good contrast to Sherlock's detached nature. Their dynamic is one of the main reasons the series manages to hold the viewer's interest.

Visually, the production is solid: London is depicted with atmosphere - without excessive gloss, tinged with a slight grayness and an attentive eye for period details. In terms of staging, the series looks robust and at times even impressive.

However, the main weakness lies in the script. Storylines often feel simplified: the mysteries are not particularly complex, some plot twists can be guessed long before the reveal, and themes that could have added emotional weight (such as generational conflict, trust, redemption) remain superficial hints rather than fully developed arcs. The pacing is also uneven: there are lively moments, but also noticeable lulls, especially in the middle of the season.

Conclusion: Sherlock & Daughter is a project with a good concept, solid performances, and a pleasant atmosphere, but it lacks depth in storytelling. It's more of an interesting side note in the world of Sherlock rather than a new pinnacle of the genre. As an easy evening watch, it works well enough. But if you're looking for the wit and complexity of the original Holmes, they are noticeably scarcer here.

One of the endless iterations of Sherlock Holmes, this one comes with a young woman who may be his daughter. The story begins with Holmes mid-drama, trying to save persons at risk while feeling that greater risk may come from his efforts. Meanwhile, a young woman makes her way from New York City to London, hoping to meet Holmes, whom she regards as a personal hero.

The atmosphere of London, 1896, is convincing, so the viewer can relax into the story, which wastes no time developing. Holmes (David Thewlis) and the young woman, Amelia Rojas (Blu Hunt), begin the series as fully-developed characters. Their back stories and personality traits are quickly established. Holmes is self-important and surly, though considerations might be made due to his current situation. Amelia is bright, cordial, and eager to learn. When she makes her way to 221B Baker Street, her hopes are briefly dashed, but she finds a place in Holmes' situation.

Before long, the two are working together to solve a case, but not as equals. And the disparate duo competes with Scotland Yard and the Pinkertons.

The production is filled with graphics, which some viewers may like; others may find them distracting.

But the first two episodes are enjoyable, and there is potential for much more enjoyment if the script allows the main characters to grow into a relationship of depth and warmth, if only grudgingly.

As a big Sherlock Holmes fan, I've always loved how smart he is and how he keeps his distance. To me, the original stories are great because he's all about logic, not feelings or family. So, when this new series introduces a daughter, it feels a bit off. It just doesn't seem like the Sherlock I know, the one who cares most about solving a good mystery.

It feels wrong because the original Holmes was so focused on his work, with no wife or kids. Adding a daughter brings in a lot of emotion, which I think changes what makes him unique. It might make him seem more like any other detective with family problems, instead of the special character he is. For me, the old stories are important, and big changes to the main character can be tough to accept.

But, I also see why the series creators did it. Giving Holmes a daughter adds something new. The idea of a "lonely genius" can feel old-fashioned now. A daughter pushes him to deal with feelings and relationships, which makes him seem more human. This can open up new kinds of stories, not just about solving crimes, but about family and what kind of parent Holmes would be. It helps keep the character fresh and interesting for today's audiences.

So, while my first thought is often "that's not the real Sherlock," I understand that a daughter can enliven and modernize him, making him more relatable and giving creators new ways to tell his story. It's a different take, but it does bring him to life for a new generation.

I'll admit my expectations for a CW production are somewhat reduced compared to HBO, but Sherlock & Daughter is definitely a decent show worth watching.

There are a lot of little things done properly that show care and attention to detail. The little animation showing when characters move about London is simple and effective.

The sets and scenes in London and environs are top notch, particularly when I compare them to Miss Scarlett. The set designers performed excellent work here.

Where there is a bit of a letdown is the reliance on coincidence to further the plot. Amelia is definitely too much of a Mary Sue but I've seen far worse. The acting, other than Thewlis, is average at best. The actors read their lines rather than saying them, but, again, for a CW production this is not unexpected.

All in all, I'm enjoying this and I'd recommend it. Must see television, perhaps not, but if you're a Sherlock Holmes fan, this is worth giving a shot.