Sherlock Holmes Movies: Essential Films
This curated selection highlights the most acclaimed and influential Sherlock Holmes films across different eras and interpretations. From the definitive Basil Rathbone classics to innovative modern reimaginings, these films represent the essential viewing experience for understanding Holmes' cinematic legacy.
Picked for viewers who want to experience the character's evolution without committing to the complete filmography, this watch order spans from the 1940s golden age through contemporary blockbusters, showcasing the enduring appeal and versatility of the world's greatest detective across 10 excellent films.
There are 5 other watch orders available – see the links up above.
The Hound of the Baskervilles
Sherlock Holmes investigates the mysterious death of Sir Henry Baskerville's uncle, who locals believe was killed by a legendary supernatural hound that has terrorized the Devonshire moors for centuries.
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
Professor Moriarty devises an elaborate scheme to defeat his greatest adversary, Sherlock Holmes, by orchestrating what he believes to be the perfect crime. The master detective must use all his skills to outwit his nemesis and prevent a diabolical plot involving England's most precious treasures.
Sherlock Holmes Faces Death
During WWII, Dr. Watson calls upon Sherlock Holmes to investigate a series of murders at a convalescent home where Watson volunteers. The master detective must sift through numerous suspects among the staff, patients, and owners to solve the deadly mystery.
The Scarlet Claw
Sherlock Holmes investigates a mysterious murder in a remote village where locals believe a supernatural monster is responsible for a woman's gruesome death.
The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes
Holmes and Dr. Watson investigate the mysterious disappearance of a woman's husband, leading them through a bizarre case involving missing persons, ancient castles, and strange experiments in the Scottish Highlands.
Murder by Decree
Sherlock Holmes investigates the Jack the Ripper murders in London's East End, uncovering a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of British society. With Dr. Watson's help, Holmes discovers the killings may be connected to a royal scandal and political cover-up.
Young Sherlock Holmes
Young Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson meet as students at an English boarding school, where Holmes already displays his legendary deductive abilities. When they uncover a mysterious plot involving an Egyptian cult, the teenage duo must use their wits to solve the case.
Sherlock Holmes
Eccentric consulting detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal partner Dr. John Watson face off against a dangerous new adversary in a thrilling mystery that threatens the very fabric of Victorian England.
Mr. Holmes
An aging Sherlock Holmes in 1947 struggles with his failing memory while attempting to solve the final case that forced him into retirement, with help from his housekeeper's young son.
Enola Holmes
When her mother mysteriously disappears, teenage Enola Holmes uses her detective skills to search for clues while proving she's just as capable as her famous brother Sherlock.
Other Film Series
Bryan Edgar Wallace
A series of German crime thrillers produced by CCC Filmkunst in the 1960s-70s, marketed under the name of Edgar Wallace's son Bryan, featuring standalone mysteries with gothic atmosphere and masked killers.
Dr. Mabuse
A decades-spanning German crime thriller series following the criminal mastermind Dr. Mabuse through various incarnations, from Fritz Lang's original trilogy to 1960s sequels and later spiritual successors.
Edgar Wallace
German crime thriller series from 1959-1972 that created a distinctive subgenre of atmospheric gothic mysteries, featuring recurring cast and iconic villains.
Hercule Poirot
Agatha Christie's famous Belgian detective has been adapted across multiple eras, from early talkies to modern star-studded ensembles.
Saw
A horror franchise centered on the elaborate death traps and moral philosophy of serial killer John Kramer, known as Jigsaw.
Scream
A meta-horror franchise following Sidney Prescott and others as they face various Ghostface killers, known for its self-aware commentary on slasher film tropes.