AHK Cinema · Movie Review
Enola Holmes
2020 Dir. Harry Bradbeer 123 minBest for CEFR B2
Discover the world of Sherlock Holmes through his sister Enola's eyes in this 2020 Netflix original film, where mystery, adventure, and self-discovery intertwine.
Things You Didn't Know
6 hidden details
1
Millie Bobby Brown Casting
Millie Bobby Brown was cast as Enola Holmes after impressing the filmmakers with her performance in *Stranger Things*. The role was tailored to her strengths as an actress. Brown's involvement helped shape the character of Enola.
2
Historical Setting
The film is set in the late 19th century, a time when women's rights were limited. This historical context adds depth to the story, highlighting Enola's challenges as a female detective in a male-dominated society.
3
Sherlock's Character
Henry Cavill's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes differs from previous adaptations, focusing on a more human and less eccentric version of the character. This interpretation allows for a closer brother-sister relationship between Sherlock and Enola.
4
Costume Design
The costumes in *Enola Holmes* were designed to reflect the characters' personalities and social status. Enola's outfits, in particular, symbolize her transition from a restricted life to one of freedom and adventure.
5
Filming Locations
The film was shot in various locations across the UK, including London and the countryside. These settings provide a visually stunning backdrop for the story, capturing the essence of Victorian England.
6
Literary Inspiration
The movie is based on the first book in the *Enola Holmes Mysteries* series by Nancy Springer. The books offer a unique take on the Sherlock Holmes universe, focusing on the adventures of his sister.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, Enola Holmes is a captivating film that offers a unique blend of mystery, adventure, and personal growth. Viewers can learn about the importance of female empowerment, family bonds, and self-discovery. For English learners, watching the scene where Enola first meets the runaway lord with subtitles can be particularly beneficial, as it showcases conversational English in a real-world context.
The Learning Pack
Watch this film. Speak better English by Sunday.
Vocabulary, idioms, cultural context, and one scene broken down for shadowing practice.
Vocabulary (16)
intrepid
earlyfeeling or showing no fear
"Enola was an intrepid young detective."
sleuthing
middledetective work
"Enola used her sleuthing skills to solve the mystery."
runaway
middlesomeone who has run away from home or the law
"The lord was a runaway who needed Enola's help."
empowerment
latethe process of gaining control over one's life
"The film promotes female empowerment."
vulnerability
middlethe state of being open to attack or criticism
"Millie Bobby Brown portrayed Enola's vulnerability well."
outsmart
middleto be cleverer than someone
"Enola managed to outsmart her brother Sherlock."
narrative
latethe story or plot of a book, film, etc.
"The film's narrative is engaging and fast-paced."
coming-of-age
latea story about someone becoming an adult
"*Enola Holmes* is a coming-of-age story."
conversational
laterelating to conversation
"The film uses conversational dialogue."
comprehension
latethe ability to understand something
"Watching the film can improve English learners' comprehension skills."
captivating
lateattracting and holding someone's attention
"*Enola Holmes* is a captivating film."
blend
middlea mixture of different things
"The film is a blend of mystery, adventure, and personal growth."
empower
lateto give someone the power to do something
"The film aims to empower young women."
tailored
earlymade to fit someone's needs or skills
"The role of Enola was tailored to Millie Bobby Brown's strengths."
eccentric
middleunconventional or unusual
"This version of Sherlock Holmes is less eccentric than others."
transition
middlea change from one situation to another
"Enola's outfits symbolize her transition to a life of freedom."
Idioms & Expressions
on the run
trying to escape from the law or a problem
used when describing the runaway lord
in disguise
wearing clothes or makeup to hide one's identity
Enola dresses as a boy to move freely
make a break for it
to try to escape or run away quickly
used in action scenes
keep up appearances
to maintain a certain image or impression
related to the societal expectations placed on women
take matters into one's own hands
to do something independently without waiting for others
Enola decides to solve the mystery herself
Cultural References
Victorian England
a period in English history known for its social etiquette, fashion, and strict class divisions
Women's rights in the 19th century
during this time, women had limited rights and freedoms compared to men
The Sherlock Holmes stories
a series of detective stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle that have been adapted and reinterpreted in many forms of media
British aristocracy
the class of people with hereditary titles and wealth in the UK
Scene Breakdown for Shadowing
around 00:20:00
Enola: 'I've been watching you, Sherlock. I know all about your little tricks.' Sherlock: 'And what do you plan to do with this information, Enola?'
This scene showcases the sibling rivalry and intellectual competition between Enola and Sherlock. The vocabulary used, such as 'tricks,' highlights their detective skills. For English learners, practicing shadowing with this dialogue can improve their pronunciation and comprehension of conversational English. The scene also introduces the theme of family dynamics and the characters' personalities, making it a great starting point for discussions about the film.
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