Guy Ritchie’s ‘Young Sherlock’ on Prime Video Is Better Than ‘The Gentlemen’

Young Sherlock isn’t the first time Ritchie has explored Arthur Conan Doyle‘s famous literary character; previously, he directed two Sherlock Holmes films over a decade ago, and his latest project serves as a prequel to the version of the character that fans know. Young Sherlock delivers a compelling mystery and endearing characters, and though there are only eight episodes for now, the guarantee that it will continue next year gives the audience even more to look forward to.

‘Young Sherlock’ Thrives With an Action-Packed Story

As the show’s title indicates, the story follows a 19-year-old Sherlock Holmes (Hero Fiennes Tiffin), who uses his intelligence to make mischief. After he is jailed for pickpocketing, his brother, Mycroft (Max Irons), secures a position for him as a scout at Oxford University. However, when priceless ancient scrolls go missing and Sherlock happens to be nearby, he becomes the prime suspect. With permission from Princess Shou’an of China (Zine Tseng), who donated the scrolls, Sherlock investigates the crime to clear his own name, but things only become more complicated after he and his unlikely new ally, James Moriarty (Dónal Finn), discover the truth.

Sherlock and Moriarty uncover a larger conspiracy involving murder, revenge, royalty, and past trauma. Given the accusations leveled at him, the mystery is already personal, but that is only the beginning for Sherlock. Throughout the story, he learns more about his sister Beatrice’s (Holly Cattle) disappearance when they were children, adding another layer to the ongoing mystery. With so much going on, it’s impossible not to get swept up in one of Ritchie’s best series to date. The questions build, providing shocking twists that keep the audience on the edge of their seats as they try to piece the puzzle together.

‘Young Sherlock’s Characters Are the Highlight of the Show

While the mystery of the scrolls’ theft is an important element of Young Sherlock‘s first season, the show’s greatest strength is its characters. Sherlock Holmes’ legacy has endured for a reason, but Ritchie’s series offers a new perspective on the beloved character while he is still honing his detective skills. This offers room for the show to grow and evolve, but it isn’t the only change Young Sherlock makes. Throughout the series, Sherlock and Moriarty take center stage, but instead of their usual rivalry, they develop a friendship rooted in their mutual status as outcasts and a shared intellect. Their witty dynamic draws the audience in, and they make an impressive duo as they work together.

However, Sherlock and Moriarty’s friendship raises even more questions about Young Sherlock‘s future. As close as they are now, it seems inevitable that something will come between them as the series moves forward, given their history as enemies. The complex dynamic between these two leads opens up many more stories for Young Sherlock to explore when the show returns, promising even more adventure, mysteries, and laughs. Ultimately, the Prime Video series is ideal for fans of fast-paced mysteries, especially those who enjoy Ritchie’s style of filmmaking.