After theaters closed in late March, people all across the world turned to online-streaming platforms to entertain themselves through the pandemic. Aside from providing viewers with classic films and televisions shows, platforms, like Netflix, have been releasing new films to excite the public. Among these new films is Enola Holmes. Released on September 23, Enola Holmes brings the light, fast-paced energy that society needs now more than ever.

Based off the book series by Nancy Springer, this film focuses on famous detective Sherlock Holmes’ sixteen-year-old sister. Enola (Millie Bobby Brown) has spent her entire life beside her mother (Helena Bonham Carter), who homeschooled Enola and trained her for society. On Enola’s sixteenth birthday, her mother goes missing. Determined to find her mother, Enola sets out on a journey full of mystery, meeting her brothers, Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft Holmes (Sam Claflin), as well as Lord Tewksbury (Louis Partridge) along the way.

Facing societal expectations of early twentieth century England, Enola battles the pressures of patriarchy and dependency as she fights for individuality, freedom, and feminism.

Director Harry Bradbeer delivered a fantastic big-budget film.

The plot of the movie was average. A teenage girl goes on a passionate journey and ends up learning a great deal about herself. However, the cinematography, acting, and production of the film helped push this film to its spot as an above-average theatrical movie.

I enjoyed the intense bursts of feminism that Brown exhibited in her performance. She took charge of her character and created a young woman who is not afraid to back down. Additionally, Brown impressed with her upbeat performance, proving to be a versatile actress. Furthermore, although becoming famous for her role as Eleven in Stranger Things, Brown shows that she can portray two characters on opposite sides of the personality spectrum.

In his breakthrough role, Partridge proves to viewers that he can work alongside an A-list cast. Enola and Tewksbury’s chemistry throughout the film was especially enjoyable since I often found myself eagerly awaiting their scenes together.

For cinematography and costumes, the film does not disappoint. With beautiful countrysides and a detailed English city, audiences will be captivated by the crisp quality of the film. On the topic of eye-grabbing, the vibrant, intricate costumes enhance character development as each costume depicts the emotions and foundation of each character.

The combat-heavy film showcases Enola’s impressive jiu jitsu skills, while also providing the classic Sherlock Holmes deductive-thinking factors. There was never a moment in the film where I felt bored. In fact, Enola Holmes kept my eyes glued to the screen as I keenly watched every single minute of the movie, including all the plot-twists and humorous scenes.

However, even though I found this film charming and light-hearted, the acting may not be for everyone. Since Enola Holmes is a theatrical piece, the acting is greatly flamboyant. I would not recommend this film to anyone who does not enjoy live-action plays, since there is a large difference between the acting in a play and a movie.

In addition, I would not recommend this movie to anyone watching solely for the tale of Sherlock Holmes. Enola Holmes shifts the focus from Sherlock to forward-thinking Enola, so viewers will not be seeing much of Sherlock in the film.

Again, I loved this movie for its strong tones of equality, powerful dialogue, and the bubbly portrayal from Enola. I definitely recommend Enola Holmes to anyone looking for a cheerful and down-right fun movie to leave them feeling reenergized during the unprecedented times of COVID-19.

8/10