Sherlock Holmes: Michael Caine
Dr. Watson: Ben Kingsley
Year: 1988
Case: none
Written as an obvious parody, Without a Clue chronicles the world’s greatest detective, Watson, as he triumphs over Moriarty, all while trying to keep his incompetent partner in hand. John Watson is the real hero here, Holmes a figment of his imagination, until he is forced to hire a drunken, second rate actor to play the role, then the character takes on a life of his own.
Ben Kingsley as Dr. Watson
Ben Kingsley is utterly fantastic as Dr. Watson. His enthusiastic, and yet, dignified interest in the science of deduction comes across brilliantly. Here Watson is the real brains behind the organization, and, despite the ridiculousness of the premise, Kingsley manages to convince audiences of the possibility. At times he comes across as slightly manic, and yet this only serves to enhance his character.
Michael Caine as Sherlock Holmes
Michael Caine gives a brilliant performance as a bumbling, womanizing, drunken Holmes. His confusion and idiocy enhance the character beyond measure. Michael Caine has comedic timing down to an art, and no where is it more obvious than here. All around, a spectacular performance.
Delightful Elements
There is precious little about this film that isn’t delightful. From the onset it manages to charm and amuse; a pace that is maintained throughout the film. This due in large part to the film’s premise, which, while outrageous, actually manages to seem quite appealing. Perhaps it is my irrational love of Watson which clouds my judgement, but the thought of Holmes as Watson’s bitch is simply too amusing not to enjoy.
That is not, of course, the only source of amusement. Indeed, the entire film is quite a lot of fun; filled with inside Sherlockian jokes and dozens of references to Canon. Scene after scene had me in stitches (I am still giggling uncontrollably over Holmes’ sleuthing ‘routing’).
The supporting characters, too, only serve to enhance this film. Moriarty is utterly priceless. His knowing that Watson is the true mastermind only serves to improve his character, as does his portrayal as a homicidal maniac (aided by Holmes’ nervous breakdown at the prospect of facing the man). Lestrade, too, is fantastically portrayed (indeed, I believe this version of Lestrade may have a leg up on the Lestrade of Canon). Even Mrs. Hudson and the Baker Street Irregulars make an appearance, all to the advantage of the film (indeed, it is Mrs. Hudson who helps to save the day).
The sets and costumes, too, are quite well put together. This is indeed quite remarkable considering the film was meant as a parody. Obviously there was a significant budget in place; it certainly shows, the entire film seeming quite well polished.
The film is not without subtext. Indeed, throughout the film Holmes and Watson are seen bickering and bantering like an old married couple. This is interlaced with several instances of true friendship (where both the viewer and the characters realize they are better together than apart). That the story ends with their reunion and renewed friendship is simply icing on the cake
Finally, no film would be complete without a man in drag. Without a Clue does one better by pairing this man with Lestrade romantically. A slasher’s dream come true.
Quibbles
Sadly, no review is without its quibbles. Fortunately, they are few and far between.
At times, the plot was slightly lacking. Indeed, it seemed so obscure that it wasn’t until I reviewed the film a second time that I could piece together where the film was moving.
That being said, the pacing, flow, special effects and carefully choreographed sword fight easily made up for what became a trifling fact. Overall, Without a Clue earns a solid five out of five pipes.