Sherlock Holmes is the most famous detective of all time. Since his first appearance in 1887, countless films and series have been made about him, ranging from classic crime stories to modern blockbusters.
Here are the 10 best Sherlock Holmes movies that show why he remains a legendary character.
1. Sherlock Holmes (2009) – The action-hero version with Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law deliver a completely new take on Holmes and Watson in this bombastic blockbuster.
Instead of a calm, analytical detective, we get a brawling, eccentric Holmes who’s just as good at boxing as he is at deduction. The film blends fast-paced action, sharp dialogue, and a steampunk-style Victorian setting, making it perfect for modern audiences.
With Guy Ritchie’s direction, it almost feels like a Tarantino movie – but with mystery and top-notch British wit.
2. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011) – Bigger and more spectacular
The sequel to the 2009 film takes everything up a notch.
Holmes finally faces his ultimate adversary: Professor Moriarty. The battle between these two geniuses leads to a movie full of clever strategies, epic fights, and a nerve-racking game of cat and mouse.
With more humor, better action, and a stunning climax at the Reichenbach Falls, this is a worthy follow-up.
3. The Hound of the Baskervilles (1959) – The best classic Sherlock film
Of all adaptations of The Hound of the Baskervilles, the 1959 Hammer Horror version is the most iconic.
Peter Cushing plays a cool, razor-sharp Holmes and Christopher Lee shines as Sir Henry Baskerville. The gothic atmosphere and the eerie moors make this one of the scariest and most atmospheric Sherlock films ever made.
4. The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes (1970) – The most human Sherlock
This film shows a different side of Sherlock.
Director Billy Wilder adds more emotion and humor to the typical detective mystery formula.
Here, Sherlock is less invincible and even a bit vulnerable. This makes the film unique and a must-watch for fans who want to see Holmes from a new perspective.
5. Murder by Decree (1979) – Sherlock vs. Jack the Ripper
What if Sherlock Holmes hunted Jack the Ripper?
In this film, Christopher Plummer’s Holmes goes up against the most notorious serial killer in history. The mystery is darker and more gruesome than in most Sherlock films, and it cleverly plays with real historical theories.
The atmosphere is intense, and Plummer’s Holmes is sharp, human, and captivating.
6. Young Sherlock Holmes (1985) – A young Holmes
What if Sherlock Holmes and John Watson met as teenagers in school?
This film plays with that idea and turns it into an adventurous coming-of-age mystery full of secrets, deadly plots, and even a touch of romance.
A young Holmes and Watson investigate a series of mysterious murders that lead to an occult cult. A hidden gem with surprisingly good special effects for its time.
7. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (1939) – Basil Rathbone’s iconic Holmes
Basil Rathbone is, for many, the definitive Sherlock Holmes.
This film, based on stage plays, is full of classic crime elements and features Rathbone at his peak as the sharp-witted detective.
If you want to see the ultimate old-school Sherlock Holmes, this is the film.
8. Mr. Holmes (2015) – An elderly Sherlock looks back
What happens when Sherlock Holmes grows old and starts losing his memory?
In this film, Ian McKellen plays an elderly Holmes struggling with the fact that his sharp mind is slowly fading.
The film is slower and more philosophical, but beautifully filmed and full of emotional depth. A Sherlock film like no other.
9. Enola Holmes (2020) – Sherlock’s clever little sister
In this fresh Netflix film, we get a new perspective on the Sherlock universe: that of his younger sister, Enola.
Millie Bobby Brown plays a cheerful, intelligent, and rebellious Enola Holmes, while Henry Cavill portrays a charming but less dominant Sherlock.
The mystery is fun and playful, and the film offers a light, modern twist on the classic tales.
10. The Seven-Per-Cent Solution (1976) – Sherlock Holmes as an addict
This may be the most bizarre Sherlock film ever made.
In this alternate version, Sherlock Holmes is heavily addicted to cocaine, and Dr. Watson arranges for him to be treated by none other than Sigmund Freud (!).
At the same time, they get caught up in an international mystery where Holmes must regain his deductive powers. A unique film that shows just how versatile the Sherlock Holmes character can be.
From classic detectives to explosive action heroes and philosophical dramas, Sherlock Holmes is a character who constantly reinvents himself.
Which version of Holmes is your favorite?
