Bob Clark was responsible for two affectionately remembered films of the 1980s, PORKY’S (1981) and A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983). However, he could also transcend genre films, notably with the cult horror classic BLACK CHRISTMAS (1974) and in 1979, he delved into the world of probably the most famous detective of all time, Sherlock Holmes, with the recently-deceased Christopher Plummer as Holmes and James Mason as Dr. Watson in MURDER BY DECREE.
Younger fans who have an affection for the recent Robert Downey Jr. / Jude Law collaborations may be curious to check out this one. The game is afoot once again in Ye Olde London Town – and dastardly killer Jack The Ripper is all around ‘The Smoke’ doing his dirty deeds. Holmes is assigned to investigate the deaths of several women after tradesmen in the Whitechapel and surrounding boroughs are concerned about their incomes being compromised.
Still, needs must in the world of this ‘Prince Of Detectives’ (as Watson confides to Holmes in the opening moments at a visit to the Opera House), but as the investigation continues, the upper classes and higher authorities seem to be showing more than a little concern and distaste for Holmes’ determination to crack this particular case…..
Handsome and attractive adaptation of the Conan Doyle legend, now released as part of the ‘Vintage Classics’ label through StudioCanal UK, with a more graphic approach to the violence as befits the time of its’ original release. A great chemistry inherent between Plummer and Mason who embody their interpretations of the legendary characters, backed up by a handsome and talented cast including the likes of David Hemmings, Genevieve Bujold, Frank Finlay and Sir John Gielgud.
First and foremost, this is one for true devotees and fans of the detective, but given the legacy of Plummer as one of the most versatile talents in films like THE SOUND OF MUSIC (1965), which effectively defined his career – and something which he often had trouble accepting according to some reports – MURDER BY DECREE is certainly one of his most memorable performances.
