‘Sherlock’ puts modern twist on popular mysteries

The infamous Sherlock Holmes strolls into the yard and examines every detail of the scene. The flower beds have been trampled with footprints. The footprint of the right leg is more prominent than that of the left, suggesting the culprit walks with a limp. Sherlock grins with a twinkle of discovery in his eye, immediately deducing who the murderer must be.

These brilliant deductions are cherished in the BBC television show “Sherlock,” a modernized revitalization of the classic Sherlock Holmes mysteries by Arthur Conan Doyle. It focuses on the cynical detective Sherlock, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, and his friend John Watson, played by Martin Freeman, as they investigate classic cases with a modern perspective.

This present-day take on the story is slightly darker and more violent than the well-known children’s stories, making it appealing to a more mature audience.

“It [takes] the old story and [makes] it more attractive for people to watch,” junior Susanna Lee said. “People today really like to see the old stories with a new, fresh face.”

Lee said the BBC show revamps episodes by changing certain details. For example, the writers of the show took the original story “A Study in Scarlet” and morphed it into an episode titled “A Study in Pink.”

With its colorful language and details, English teacher Amy Keys says “Sherlock’s” popularity stems from its British appeal.

“British humor is much more verbal and much more based on language,” Keys said. “Sherlock has that capacity to astonish with quick-witted language and precision of language.”

Freshman Ingrid Pan also appreciates the show’s British approach.

“Obviously, you can’t deny the awesome British accents,” Pan said. “British TV is also a lot more thoughtful than American television."

Keys said the modern version shows off the timeless aspects of Sherlock Holmes.

“I like the way the show updates it in the context of post-Iraq war and shows how relevant it is for all times,” Keys said.

Many fans of Sherlock also appreciate its in-depth character development.

“My favorite character is Watson,” Keys said. “I think he is a really interesting, complex and sympathetic character.”

Keys also enjoys the portrayal of the character Sherlock and his ingenious mind at work.

“I love it when Sherlock walks into a room and you get to see his mind operate like a computer, sifting and sorting data that it’s taking in,” Keys said. “After I watch that show, the next time I walk into a room I try to notice details about people or situations.”

Keys believes that these important details play a significant role in science fiction novels, a concept which she aims to teach to her students.

“How the detail informs who the character is is a big part of teaching literature and understanding literature,” Keys said. “Every detail is chosen for effect.”

With its intricate plots, characters and language, “Sherlock,” as a modern adaptation of a classic story, is a must-see for fans of British television.

“Watch the show and be completely captivated!” Pan said.