Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: December 16, 2011
7.4
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 694 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
505
Mixed:
153
Negative:
36
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9
ilovegames32Nov 23, 2012
What's up with the hate from metacritic? A 48 from reviewers...yet they love Prometheus...that shows you that people love pretty effects over a really good...entertaining & cohesive story! While Prometheus leaves the audience wondering whyWhat's up with the hate from metacritic? A 48 from reviewers...yet they love Prometheus...that shows you that people love pretty effects over a really good...entertaining & cohesive story! While Prometheus leaves the audience wondering why the character's constantly do unscientific yet incredibly stupid things James martyarty seems to not only challenge homles wit but the viewers as well because he's always ahead by two steps! He extremely smart..devious & fun to watch! Holmes is just as great as he was in the first movie as is Watson(r.i.p blackwood you were awesome) I like how they focus a little more on Holmes preemptive strikes(sorry haters but if you watched the 1st one you know that he doesn't believe in magic) as he out thinks his attackers which is brilliant! The story is much improved over the first Holmes movies so I wont give it away but I have to say that I hated they killed off Irene saddler(Rachel Adams) character....so early then replaced her with a gypsy(noomi rapace) who really just stands out like a black sheep! Her character doesn't bond well with Holmes or Watson & I assume shes just there for the presents of a female character! That aside...the action is great & feels like your watching pirates of the Caribbean sometimes(the assassin) but not the last pirates movie though! And now for the ending..I guess people hate good endings? Although they didn't PHYSICALLY fight...the ending was a representation of the MENTAL battle between them throughout the entire movie which is genius since Holmes & martyarty are both....well...geniuses so some people might dislike that well implemented scene!! Hopefully guy Richie will make a third movie because it deserves it for being good at keeping people interested in the story without over use of special effects....wink Prometheus wink...my verdict:9/10… Expand
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10
javis10Jan 11, 2012
I gets better than the first one. I really enjoy it. It is more funny, smarter and it has more action, which must say that it was some amazing, you can´t breathe int hose scenes, a very good film.
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5
Bruce722Nov 29, 2012
Unfortunately this movie was nowhere near as good as the first one. The acting and the witty humor was still there as well as the way certain layers of the plot unfold. However, there were certain aspects of the story that felt like lazyUnfortunately this movie was nowhere near as good as the first one. The acting and the witty humor was still there as well as the way certain layers of the plot unfold. However, there were certain aspects of the story that felt like lazy writing. More than anything though, the action sequences, while outstanding in the first film, were overdone and cheesy in many scenes. This movie is another perfect example of why 3D is potentially hurting film making. There were many instances where you could tell than the director threw in gimmicky "pop-outs" that felt forced. The biggest flaw of all, in my opinion, was the ending. Unrealistic just doesn't begin to describe how ridiculous the ending was. These things took away from the experience and left you waiting for it to end rather than enjoying the experience.… Expand
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8
subhadip1524Jan 4, 2012
Robert Downey Jr is best as always. The slow motion scenes are just Awesome.I will say it is better than the previous one. Amazing film everyone should watch it once.
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7
shrinivasJan 1, 2012
First things first..... I loved the movie.

For all the fans of the detective from Arthur Canon Doyle's book, this version of Holmes is blasphemous. For all those who got the first taste of the great detective after watching the firstFirst things first..... I loved the movie.

For all the fans of the detective from Arthur Canon Doyle's book, this version of Holmes is blasphemous.
For all those who got the first taste of the great detective after watching the first installment, this movie is one hell of a joyride...
Take your pick.



For the original Sherlock Holmes fans....
Sherlock Holmes, the great detective, does not deduce anything in the movie. There is no mystery to solve here,no clues, no surprise elements.While the first part had not one but many puzzles to solve, this time around, the story is plain vanilla.
Here, Holmes is on a mission to stop Prof. James Moriarty from committing a dastardly act (no spoilers this time).

In the movie, Holmes is more of a brawler, master of disguise, cross-dresser & thief than a detective. There is precious little to "deduce". The script requires him to speak wittily, fire guns, run on rooftops,trains & woods and dress weirdly. He does what Ethan Hunt and James bond do (but for the dressing weirdly bit). What he does not do in the movie is not anything like what he does in the novels / stories ( 4 long & 56 short stories).

To read further, please check into - http://filtercoffeechronicles.blogspot.com/2012/01/sherlock-holmes-end.html… Expand
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10
lacruzdepeteJan 2, 2012
This movie was very thought provoking. I loved it, but I can see how other people would classify this as boring. It was a long movie. Don't go in expecting it to be like the first one, it's not in more ways than a few. Most of the battles inThis movie was very thought provoking. I loved it, but I can see how other people would classify this as boring. It was a long movie. Don't go in expecting it to be like the first one, it's not in more ways than a few. Most of the battles in this are mental. Didn't really care for the fire fights, but even with the gun battles, there was always an underlined theme.… Expand
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7
katharineclarkJan 4, 2012
While perhaps not as taught as the first movie, and sad to see some major characters being killed off, I thought this movie was a fun romp. There were definitely uneven points in the plot, but on the whole I laughed pretty hard at theWhile perhaps not as taught as the first movie, and sad to see some major characters being killed off, I thought this movie was a fun romp. There were definitely uneven points in the plot, but on the whole I laughed pretty hard at the interactions between Holmes and Watson and enjoyed the stylized Guy Ritchie action scenes. I've heard some complaints about the choice of actor for Professor Moriarty, but he was definitely creepy and intelligent enough to pull it off. I just wish Noomi Rapace hadn't been so underutilized.… Expand
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9
LokarJan 4, 2012
Terrific adventure with fine acting from the stars, and plot twists that will have you leaning half out of your chair. One of the best characters is Moriarty; the actor does a perfect job of communicating both the man's intelligence and hisTerrific adventure with fine acting from the stars, and plot twists that will have you leaning half out of your chair. One of the best characters is Moriarty; the actor does a perfect job of communicating both the man's intelligence and his coldness as a sociopath. The movie is also very funny, with Mycroft and the butler providing good supporting roles. There's a lot of comedy in the film, only a few confusing points but very tense plot twists. Fans of mystery will have a lot to enjoy in this film.… Expand
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9
KiwigalJan 5, 2012
I liked the first of these movies and loved this one. I really enjoyed the dialogue, the humor and the pacing. Gorgeous detail in the costuming and machinery enhanced the feel of the film. I enjoy the rougher feel to the Victorian age thatI liked the first of these movies and loved this one. I really enjoyed the dialogue, the humor and the pacing. Gorgeous detail in the costuming and machinery enhanced the feel of the film. I enjoy the rougher feel to the Victorian age that these films capture as I believe it is closer to the reality of London in this era. You do need to pay attention if you want to solve the mystery with Sherlock Holmes as the film progresses but that is part of the attraction for me. Definitely recommend this film, a great combination of plot twists, humour and action.… Expand
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9
AB77Jan 6, 2012
More witty, humorous and action packed than the first one,it also had one of THE BEST endings you ever likely to see in any movie of any genre....!!!
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10
jeswainstonJan 6, 2012
This movie does what you expect...it has action, adventure and sexy men! What more do you want out of a movie that is billed as nothing less. If you expect this to be the Sherlock Holmes of literature, it's not and never was meant to be.This movie does what you expect...it has action, adventure and sexy men! What more do you want out of a movie that is billed as nothing less. If you expect this to be the Sherlock Holmes of literature, it's not and never was meant to be. Enjoy it for what it is!… Expand
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8
RSAJan 8, 2012
Though not as brilliant as its prequel, 'Game of shadows' is pretty gripping in the later part. Especially, dialogues between the Sherlock and Moriarty duo, were top-class, and the way each try to outwit one other, is what that makes the plotThough not as brilliant as its prequel, 'Game of shadows' is pretty gripping in the later part. Especially, dialogues between the Sherlock and Moriarty duo, were top-class, and the way each try to outwit one other, is what that makes the plot pretty interesting. And especially the ending moments and the climax (THE END?) was brilliant!! As Guy-Ritchie said in his 'revolver', 'you play better playing a tougher opponent', this time Sherlock really gets better, playing Moriarty!! Hope Guy-Ritchie ends this series on a high note !!!… Expand
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6
lasttimeisawJan 10, 2012
My very first cinema encounter in 2012 is the sequel of a reverberating bromance action flick of Sherlock Holmes and his lover Dr. Watson, two years after the triumph of the unorthodox trio - Guy Ritchie, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law - ofMy very first cinema encounter in 2012 is the sequel of a reverberating bromance action flick of Sherlock Holmes and his lover Dr. Watson, two years after the triumph of the unorthodox trio - Guy Ritchie, Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law - of rebooting the household name into a bankable cash inflows, this time, at the same Christmas/New Year season, the threesome orgy revels in a more unrestrained burlesque, while all the detective-related mind-trickery is watered down in spite of Prof. Moriaty's existence (an underrated Jared Harris).

The film has some self-consciously insipid moments during its 129 minutes running time, for the hefty action sequences, either those slow-motion or pre-mind fighting is overly abused, which functions eloquently in the first episode, nevertheless, the same question here, do we really need Holmes to be an action star like Bruce Lee? (anyway, it could not be worse than WITHOUT A CLUE 1988, a slapstick farce of a swapped identity.) In the face of that the old trick fails to avail for the second time, the ace is that a gay-implied two-player eclipses all the rest of the film (I cannot bring to my mind whatâ… Expand
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10
Dm2k12Jan 11, 2012
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I had high hopes for this as I liked the first film however I was wrong there is far to much going on and the film makes No sence the only good bit is the gun battle in the train where he chucks mrs Watson in to the river To sum up this is too long and to boring… Expand
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8
MoidReviewsJan 13, 2012
While the story isn't as good as, say, the original books, the movie's still a load of fun. The acting is superb. The writing is dandy. The action is as chaotic and cerebral as ever. It's certainly a step above other action films, if a littleWhile the story isn't as good as, say, the original books, the movie's still a load of fun. The acting is superb. The writing is dandy. The action is as chaotic and cerebral as ever. It's certainly a step above other action films, if a little low for Holmes's grand adventures.

Still, a movie is a movie, and it's a damn good on.… Expand
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7
Passenger56Jan 15, 2012
Good blockbuster fare but nothing too memorable. Lacks the surprise factor of the first and just a little too much slow-mo. There are worse ways to waste a couple of hours.
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5
JohnnyHollywoodJan 25, 2012
'Observancy is a dying art.'

So sayeth the late, great Stanley Kubrick regarding the self-perceived genius of his final film. He was talking about the tiny details inserted into every scene of Eyes Wide Shut, leaving the sharp-eyed viewer'Observancy is a dying art.'

So sayeth the late, great Stanley Kubrick regarding the self-perceived genius of his final film. He was talking about the tiny details inserted into every scene of Eyes Wide Shut, leaving the sharp-eyed viewer with more questions than answers with every viewing. Sherlock Holmes' ability to notice these fine points, and the camera's ability to linger on them just long enough to give you a fighting chance of solving the problem before he does, is one of the few quality aspects of this film. As for the rest of it, A Game of Shadows adheres to the typical conventions of a sequel. That is, bigger, louder and more ambitious, but ends up being nowhere near as fun as its predecessor.

With Dr. Watson (Jude Law) happy to have the events of the past behind him, he makes plans for his long-overdue marriage. That is until news spreads regarding a series of mysterious bombings in and around London. Never one to work alone, Watson is again dragged into the deep end by the crafty Holmes (Robert Downey Jnr.). And so, with the help of Holmes' highly inappropriate brother Mycroft (Stephen Fry) and Simza the gypsy (Noomi Rapace), they are led to Holmes' greatest adversary, the evil but equally cunning Moriarty (Jared Harris).

If that sounds more like a trailer blurb than a synopsis, it is because attempting to explain this plot in detail would only result in digging a deeper hole. One of the strengths of the first instalment (trying to steer away from the word 'original' here) was a plot that was balanced enough to keep the viewer's attention without seeming too simple, and allowing for some enjoyable interplay between the utterly immersive Holmes and Watson. This time around, however, director Guy Ritchie substitutes substance for style, placing great importance on keeping the film moving from place to place to place with very little deduction in between. These efforts to keep the audience's mind occupied actually end up having negative effects, as the film degrades into more of a visual spectacle, and less of a romping mystery, with every passing scene. In fact, from the absurd set piece involving a firefight on a train halfway through the film, the rest of the story seems to almost give up on anything that could even be considered rational or believable. Suspension of disbelief is a key requirement when watching films like this, sure, but Shadows takes things to new levels of foolishness, wasting the chance to deliver a fresh, clever sequel.

Despite these occasionally over-the-top moments, the action is mostly well directed, albeit with a tendency to overuse slow motion and crash zooms at key moments. Holmes' re-imagining as an expert martial artist is still fun to watch, and his methods of predicting his opponent's entire move set before the fight has even begun are more refined in this film. His prior planning to prevent poor performance meets its match during the climax when we see Moriarty studying Holmes in the same way, resulting in the film's best moment by a long margin.

Speaking of our hero's arch-nemesis, Moriarty's presence is disappointingly underwhelming. The best villains are able to invoke a feeling of dread even when off-screen, but it seems this much-lauded mastermind is content to be the office general; watching the good guys fight off hordes of faceless henchmen while he sits in his swivel chair, stroking his cat and practicing his best 'I've been expecting you.' Again, this is not the actor's fault- the character simply suffers from inadequate screen time to develop a truly menacing persona, while other insignificant side characters clog up the scenery (not including Rapace's Simza, who has the whole hippie-gypsy dread thing going on to great effect).

But, for all its pitfalls, it would be unfair to give this film anything less than a straight average score, particularly in the light of almost all other blockbuster franchises still alive today. Yes, RDJ's characterisation has regressed from 'charmingly pompous' to 'borderline psychopath' in the last two years, but he and Law still try their darndest to make it work.

*There's nothing I love more than a bit of feedback, good or bad. So drop me a line on jnatsis@iprimus.com.au and let me know what you thought of my review.*… Expand
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6
sward2Jan 21, 2012
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great movie, right until the ending. The fact that he survived a fall of hundreds of meters into a river and didn't die from the impact is just too far fetched. And Irene Adler is an unnecessary character. She gets 10 minutes of screen time then dies. It was pretty good the rest of the time… Expand
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8
KtKatJan 23, 2012
Prefer the first movie but very enjoyable Christmas movie for grown-ups with great chemistry between Downey and Law and magnificent backdrops, just a tad too long
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8
PyschOutBabyJan 24, 2012
I actually thought this was very great and even better than the first one. This one had the action, comedy, Adams, and of course the best acting people who can work good together. I will actuall buy this one when it comes out. Please make aI actually thought this was very great and even better than the first one. This one had the action, comedy, Adams, and of course the best acting people who can work good together. I will actuall buy this one when it comes out. Please make a third one.… Expand
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6
VisenyaJan 28, 2012
To summarize my review in a sentence, this is a simple, fun movie that you wouldn't regret seeing. It has good pacing, hilarious moments, and the actors are clearly having fun with their roles too. Some people might be turned off by theTo summarize my review in a sentence, this is a simple, fun movie that you wouldn't regret seeing. It has good pacing, hilarious moments, and the actors are clearly having fun with their roles too. Some people might be turned off by the length of this movie, but you never have dull moment where you sit back and ask "how much longer is this movie going take?" It's not a movie that is going to make you think, it's not going to awe you with it's cinematography, and it's probably not really going to evoke any strong emotions. But it is a movie that you can drop $10+ to go see, have a fun time, and talk about it with your friends afterwards.… Expand
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9
Roadie_42Feb 8, 2012
I enjoyed this film! I liked as much as the first one. It was also more simple to understand. And it was FUNNY. It was everything, comedy, action, drama, mystery (a little little little bit of romance). And the death of Irene was terrible, II enjoyed this film! I liked as much as the first one. It was also more simple to understand. And it was FUNNY. It was everything, comedy, action, drama, mystery (a little little little bit of romance). And the death of Irene was terrible, I liked how Sherlock was silently hurt.… Expand
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4
SwarleyStinsonJul 24, 2012
Game of shadows is loosely based on the same story as The Reichenbach Fall/Final Problem episodes of the BBC show but here the plot is not presented with the same interesting detective mystery style that Sherlock Holmes should be and isGame of shadows is loosely based on the same story as The Reichenbach Fall/Final Problem episodes of the BBC show but here the plot is not presented with the same interesting detective mystery style that Sherlock Holmes should be and is padded out by endless and mostly pointless action scenes that make it far longer than it should be and even more boring than the 1st film. We have action films for action scenes, there is no reason to mutate Sherlock Holmes into Rambo. He never even does his observation analysis thing once in the whole 75% of the film I watched.… Expand
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9
FlutterPie93Mar 24, 2012
Fast-paced, excitingly action-packed, nicely acted, and full of humor, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows is fun, brilliant movie that lives up to its equally funny and entertaining predecessor. 9/10.
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10
LynnHardyApr 6, 2012
This was well worth seeing on the big screen! I really can't say a bad word about it: great acting, well developed actors and great surprises throughout the movie! I may even have to see it again.
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7
OfficialMar 8, 2014
Just as good as the first, or perhaps, even better. This sequel proves to be intelligent, funny, action-packed and thrilling. There were a few scenes when you wished the pace would pick up a bit, but it's for sure, not a disappointment.
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7
theahsanhaseebAug 28, 2012
This film was not as good as the first one, lacked mystery and suspense, and also involved unnecessary talking. However, I really did like Downey, Jr.'s performance but this film was not able to impress me that much, or it is also possibleThis film was not as good as the first one, lacked mystery and suspense, and also involved unnecessary talking. However, I really did like Downey, Jr.'s performance but this film was not able to impress me that much, or it is also possible that I was expecting it to be more mysterious. Whatever was the case, this film was good, not too great, but Sherlock Holmes is Sherlock Holmes, you can't miss it especially when Downey, Jr. is playing the role and he is playing it very well. I am giving it a 7 for a good plot because it was too hard to understand (and I liked it) and great performances by Downey, Jr., Jude Law and Jared Harris.… Expand
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9
rasta_man2357Jul 10, 2012
What in gods name is wrong with our professional reviewers people? This film was an absolute masterpiece and almost tops the first film which is surprising. Robert Downey.Jr makes ample work as the role of the psychotic Mr Holmes set on hisWhat in gods name is wrong with our professional reviewers people? This film was an absolute masterpiece and almost tops the first film which is surprising. Robert Downey.Jr makes ample work as the role of the psychotic Mr Holmes set on his new fast paced adventure that will surely lead to the breakout of another war? With plenty of action and comedy, a great watch for all.… Expand
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6
SpangleAug 17, 2015
Featuring a similar style to the first Sherlock Holmes, A Game of Shadows struggles due to a poor story and my general lack of amusement from Robert Downey Jr.'s antics as the famed private investigator. However, the villain is compelling andFeaturing a similar style to the first Sherlock Holmes, A Game of Shadows struggles due to a poor story and my general lack of amusement from Robert Downey Jr.'s antics as the famed private investigator. However, the villain is compelling and the cat-and-mouse game does provide entertainment. The real star here for me is certainly the costume and production design, as well as the stylish way it is shot. Jude Law is great, as is Noomi Rapace. Guy Ritchie does pretty well in the director's chair as though I did not think the story was nearly as good as that of the first film, it is told well. Yet, the reason why I got any enjoyment out of this one was the aesthetic elements that I mentioned before. Downey does not do it for me, but luckily, the way this one truly captures the time period and makes it come to life is what really appeals to me. Overall, this one falls short of the original, but every film would be improved if it had this set.… Expand
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9
iVaughtTVJul 18, 2012
"Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" is a thrilling, suspenseful, and daring adventure that knows just when and where the characters should be and what they should be doing. This is much more fun than its predecessor.
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8
Blofeldploy234Aug 27, 2012
Great movie. Great intriguing plot and amazing acting. If there is one thing that bothered me, it was the fact that most of Sherlock Holmes' wit took a backseat to the more favoured action sequences which are not staple of Holmes. The firstGreat movie. Great intriguing plot and amazing acting. If there is one thing that bothered me, it was the fact that most of Sherlock Holmes' wit took a backseat to the more favoured action sequences which are not staple of Holmes. The first movie balanced action and wit pretty well, here not so much. But I found myself at the edge of my seat much more this time, and it had a more intriguing plot.… Expand
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6
Captain_KirkAug 14, 2012
Eh, it's kind of a mixed bag for me. The chemistry between Holmes and Watson isn't nearly as interesting as it was the first time around. The story felt more jumbled around and this caused me to lose track of who the villain was and what hisEh, it's kind of a mixed bag for me. The chemistry between Holmes and Watson isn't nearly as interesting as it was the first time around. The story felt more jumbled around and this caused me to lose track of who the villain was and what his intentions were. Downey Jr. boasts another solid performance and the action sequences are solid enough, but everything else is meh.… Expand
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7
JawsLaxerDramaDec 20, 2012
It's not a perfect movie. It's not a bad movie. It's not even amazing, but it is GOOD. Enjoy it. Much better than the first one! Slow motion was great. It is an artistic film, and as such, some may not undertand the usage of slow motion andIt's not a perfect movie. It's not a bad movie. It's not even amazing, but it is GOOD. Enjoy it. Much better than the first one! Slow motion was great. It is an artistic film, and as such, some may not undertand the usage of slow motion and precise shots- doesn't matter. A good movie to cuddle up with someone on a rainy day.… Expand
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7
cameronmorewoodNov 7, 2012
At times, the plot is absurd, but, nevertheless, we roll with it. Why? Because Downey and Law have such great chemistry and play their characters with such ease that we can't help but be entertained.
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6
oblique15Mar 9, 2013
Well thought out movie I must say. Takes you into an adventure in a different time, but it`s not really my type of movie. It was worth watching, but I can`t say I enjoyed all of it. At times I just did not care what was going on.
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8
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
It's distinctly messier than the first one, but "Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows" still remains an almost unrelentingly fun thrill ride, with two charismatic lead characters.
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8
SwatiFeb 12, 2013
Like most sequels, the plot was over the top. There are way too many end-of-the-world movies coming out. I don't understand why filmmakers feel that they have to have an outrageous story line in order to keep people's interest in a franchise.Like most sequels, the plot was over the top. There are way too many end-of-the-world movies coming out. I don't understand why filmmakers feel that they have to have an outrageous story line in order to keep people's interest in a franchise. James Moriarty, the only villain who has ever managed to off Holmes's game, was cast brilliantly. But I think they could have reserved him for a third movie. Holmes and Watson looked like super spies who go undercover and foil a conspiracy to prevent the destruction of multiple countries. This is not what Sherlock Holmes was about. I may be a purist but the movie was still entertaining enough, if you're willing to imagine that the Holmes that you're watching is a 19th century Ethan Hunt. If they had gone with the 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' story which was simple at heart yet mind boggling and involved a self contained mystery, I would have respected Guy Ritchie more.… Expand
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9
WiesyJan 18, 2013
This is one of the best downey-movies i've ever seen. Its a good cast and a very good story. I really like this movie because i'm fan of the first one but I found these one the best.
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10
702012Dec 11, 2012
Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows has a lot of skilfully action. I very like the part when Holmes thought how to beat someone. there are just 3 words for this movie: WOW
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10
DusksparkJun 1, 2013
If I were to make a "top ten" of my all-time favorite movies, "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" would take the top spot, followed by 2009's prequel "Sherlock Holmes". From the action scenes to the plot, this movie is spotless. It'sIf I were to make a "top ten" of my all-time favorite movies, "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" would take the top spot, followed by 2009's prequel "Sherlock Holmes". From the action scenes to the plot, this movie is spotless. It's undeniably amusing and incredibly addictive.… Expand
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9
SoulchildFeb 23, 2013
This is an amazing sequel to the original Sherlock Holmes. I highly recommend you to watch both movies because they both are quite a masterpiece. A graded movies.
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10
beberMay 7, 2013
even if i have 600 American movies at home ,and love them true I can't let you hurt this movie
why tell so many lies about a movie you just don't get ?
a movie you couldn't have made in the U-S ? the 19 th century 's Europe was soeven if i have 600 American movies at home ,and love them true I can't let you hurt this movie
why tell so many lies about a movie you just don't get ?
a movie you couldn't have made in the U-S ?
the 19 th century 's Europe was so civilized and SHerlock will never be the usual "american primal cop"
and this movie is far too brilliant to be compared to the regular U-S "entertainment" 's productions
if any big movie was half as good ,I would definitely shut up!… Expand
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9
davidpiksiMay 11, 2013
I thought this movie would be quite boring but when I watched it I was quite impressed. The music the acting and the story were all good just like the first one.
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8
IcelakeWangJun 9, 2013
I like this film, albeit in it the Sherlock Holmes is not that one I read in words of Doyle’s; yet they have common traits. Some say that this Sherlock is a foreseer of the future, and for it they detested the film, but indeed I think not so.I like this film, albeit in it the Sherlock Holmes is not that one I read in words of Doyle’s; yet they have common traits. Some say that this Sherlock is a foreseer of the future, and for it they detested the film, but indeed I think not so. I’d like to riddle the narrow chance that favors Downey in final victory, on the one hand to be the revealing of a perilous state in coping with Professor Moriarty that has built a kingdom of his own, and the rare gifts and expertise Sherlock Holmes has on the other hand, which the directors try to present to the audience.
Dr. Watson in this movie is quite funny, with some mischievous mark, completely not that honest one in the book.… Expand
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7
DibbHansenJul 18, 2013
This film is much like the first film in style and action: but Downey Jr. improved here so I can hear everything he said! The story was once again difficult to follow, but it was entertaining none the less. Entertaining film, but not a perfect one.
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8
MovieGuysMar 22, 2014
The second installment in the Sherlock Holmes series is almost just as amazing as the first one. All the familiar elements that its predecessor did are brought back, and the product is still something to watch. Another great story withThe second installment in the Sherlock Holmes series is almost just as amazing as the first one. All the familiar elements that its predecessor did are brought back, and the product is still something to watch. Another great story with another great performance by Downey, Jr. and one by Law, too, A Game of Shadows is epic.… Expand
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7
Voodoo123May 10, 2022
This sequel serves up another delicious helping of the same. Very well produced with every penny of the budget on the screen and in the performances from the talented cast. While again not pushing the mystery aspect too hard and little in theThis sequel serves up another delicious helping of the same. Very well produced with every penny of the budget on the screen and in the performances from the talented cast. While again not pushing the mystery aspect too hard and little in the way of tension due to the high paced editing it's left feeling very vanilla and unoriginal in its scope. Fantastic action adventure movie please leave your brain at the doorway.… Expand
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10
Zanessa250QIApr 4, 2016
**** you, Peter Travers of Rolling Stone, You don't know Enjoy something with Pure Entertainment............................................................ CRITICS ARE BORING AND CLICHE...............
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7
FuturedirectorJul 17, 2016
Robert Downey Jr. Comes back to the cinema to give life to the well-known classic detective Sherlock Holmes, with an inappropriate direction again, but with a cool beginning as an unexpected end —what all kind of viewers would love to see—.Robert Downey Jr. Comes back to the cinema to give life to the well-known classic detective Sherlock Holmes, with an inappropriate direction again, but with a cool beginning as an unexpected end —what all kind of viewers would love to see—. So Sherlock Holmes II: Game of shadows, is another mediocre film, that audience will take as a real gift.… Expand
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8
CinemaphileJul 29, 2016
Upon a second viewing, SherlockHolmes: AGameOfShadows proves itself to be denser, more complex and superior to its predecessor. Law and Downey, Jr. are equal to the task, comfortably resuming their Butch and Sundance routine. Richie againUpon a second viewing, SherlockHolmes: AGameOfShadows proves itself to be denser, more complex and superior to its predecessor. Law and Downey, Jr. are equal to the task, comfortably resuming their Butch and Sundance routine. Richie again doesn't disappoint, never revisiting old ground and demonstrating that he's one of the few directors who knows how to use slow-mo without it being cliched. Jared Harris is the perfect Moriarty, chewing the scenery in very un-Mad Men-like fashion. Almost Blu Ray collection worthy, it IS worth catching it on Premium cable. Three and a half stars, rounded up to four.… Expand
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6
eva3si0nJun 19, 2017
The second part of a dilogy of Sherlock Holmes from Guy Richie left much worse than the first part. Though at first sight so it doesn't seem, Moriarty has appeared and an action became much more. But the movie sticks in own cliches. The plotThe second part of a dilogy of Sherlock Holmes from Guy Richie left much worse than the first part. Though at first sight so it doesn't seem, Moriarty has appeared and an action became much more. But the movie sticks in own cliches. The plot is too rectilinear, there is no mysteriousness, you understand everything in advance. And when screenwriters begin to you at the end it in all seriousness causes to explain laughter and a fun. It is a pity that the second part has turned out, not just at the level of the first movie, and it is worse.… Expand
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10
496694Nov 16, 2016
Puanı veren kişilerin IQ larına bakmak lazım. Rezalet bu film bu kadar düşük alır mı ? Bunu beğenmeyenler DC nin intihar timi filmine 10 veriyor.
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8
CoreGamer1408Aug 1, 2023
Again at it's heart a fun buddy movie that actions up Sherlock Holmes. Who is normally seen as a more cerebral character. Facing off against another menacing and clever foe. Watson is very much the equal in his own way in this dynamic duo.
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5
FilipeNetoMay 23, 2020
If the first film was relatively pleasant and positively entertaining, this film is a complete disappointment. Boring from start to finish, it brings no intriguing mystery and merely turns the most famous English detective into a relativelyIf the first film was relatively pleasant and positively entertaining, this film is a complete disappointment. Boring from start to finish, it brings no intriguing mystery and merely turns the most famous English detective into a relatively eccentric action figure.

If one of the biggest problems of the first film, for me, was the anachronism of the characters, too 21st century in their behaving for the Victorian era, the problem of this film is different, although the weight of anachronism is also felt. For me, the biggest problem here is a poorly written script, without an intriguing mystery to solve in which we can follow the protagonists. In fact, the film explains everything right from the beginning, and everything that comes after is a kind of search for evidence, where Holmes tries everything to prove Moriarty's culpability in the bombings and his intention of provoking a war. That is not enough for me.

The cast is generally good. Again, Robert Downey Jr. is the star and does his job well, despite the degree of eccentricity and unlikelihood of his character. Here, if flaws existed, they were due to the material he received and not to his work. On the positive side, I highlight Jude Law, very good in a more discreet and naturally British character; Noomi Rapace was a good addition also, and looks gypsy enough to look credible; Jared Harris is an excellent Moriarty, as cold, cultured and brilliant as required by the character. Stephen Fry and Kelly Reilly are average: they made good performances but their characters, despite the important support given, seem very limited and appear only in specific moments. Besides, they both had problems: Reilly looked bad in that costume and Fry was pompous to the point of being annoying. On the negative side, I highlight Rachel McAdams' very expendable cameo, Paul Anderson's little relevance and Eddie Marsan's marginalization, with the actor being demoted to the role of an extra.

Technically, the film is excellent and has very high production values and a lot of money clearly invested. Cinematography is very pleasant, although there are moments when the use of slow motion was unnecessary. Good colors, good filming work and a pleasant look, together with sets and costumes usually according to the time and the environment, deserve a very positive note of attention and contribute to making this film palatable and visually elegant. There is a lot of imagination in all and credibility is a problem that could be felt. The pace is good, even better than in the first film, but the soundtrack, despite being good enough, is not that good nor does it bring news, seeming to have been entirely recycled from the first film.

Personally, I expected more. Despite being a little far-fetched, with some anachronistic characters and other small problems, what really displeased me was the lack of a good plot that would hold my attention.… Expand
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7
ErikTheCriticOct 14, 2018
An improvement over its predecessor. Once again, I really liked Robert Downey Jr. as Sherlock Holmes, but I especially love Jared Harris as Moriarty, who was a much better villain than Mark Strong's.
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8
ryu9376Feb 1, 2019
Every bit as good as the first... and the addition of Jared Harris was simply brilliant.
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9
MassonicDec 9, 2020
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Really good, especially Moriarty vs Sherlock fight. Too short, I would like to see a bigger film adaptation if the third part comes out.… Expand
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7
H1pPoJun 11, 2021
Sherlock is such a Sherlock. But still predictable. The end is only the beginning. It could not be otherwise
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8
JJ2FAS4UDec 30, 2021
----------------------------------7.7/10-----------------------------------
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9
outlaststandingJun 18, 2022
This sequel is also recommendable and I am waiting for the release of the third movie.
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7
liamexeSep 27, 2022
The first movie in this series, which felt like a cliched Hollywood action adventure movie dubbed as a Sherlock Holmes picture, was of mediocre quality in my opinion. But in my opinion, A Game of Shadows is a step up from the first instalmentThe first movie in this series, which felt like a cliched Hollywood action adventure movie dubbed as a Sherlock Holmes picture, was of mediocre quality in my opinion. But in my opinion, A Game of Shadows is a step up from the first instalment and a film that is simply generally funnier, better executed in terms of action, and overall just generally much more thrilling. Take nothing away from this; this is a blockbuster done well. It's not always radically innovative and refreshing, and it can occasionally be very simple. Naturally, Robert Downey, Jr. reprises his role as Sherlock Holmes, while Jude Law plays Dr. Watson. Both characters are pursuing Moriarty, the most infamous of all the Holmes villains.… Expand
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