Enola Holmes 2 (2022) – A detective with her own name

Enola Holmes 2 It is the sequel to the successful 2020 film starring Millie Bobby Brown, based on the books by Nancy Springer. Directed again by Harry Bradbeer, this second installment was released by Netflix in November 2022, resuming the adventures of Sherlock Holmes' younger sister in a Victorian London filled with secrets, inequality, and conspiracies.

The film maintains the agile, fresh and feminist style that characterized the first part, but raises the stakes with a more elaborate story, a greater connection with real cases and a more active participation of the actor himself. Sherlock Holmes, played by Henry Cavill.

Enola Holmes 2 not only continues the growth of the main character, but also expands the narrative universe in a compelling way, combining action, humor, mystery and a powerful social message.

Synopsis

After solving his first case, Enola Holmes (Millie Bobby Brown) decides to open her own detective agency. However, the Holmes name still isn't enough to attract clients, especially as a young woman in a society that underestimates her abilities.

Just as he is about to give up, an orphan girl named Bessie arrives with an intriguing case: his older sister, Sarah, has mysteriously disappeared from the match factory where she works. Enola takes on the case, which soon leads her to infiltrate the world of industrial workers, where she discovers labor exploitation, poor sanitary conditions, and something even more sinister.

While following the clues, Enola repeatedly crosses paths with her famous brother. Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill), who is investigating a parallel case involving financial fraud and blackmail. It's not long before the two discover their cases are connected, forcing them to join forces to confront a conspiracy that could involve the highest levels of British power.

With the aid of Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge), Edith (Susan Wokoma), and the always enigmatic Inspector Lestrade, Enola must challenge both the system and her own personal growth to solve the most complex case of her career.

Cast

• Millie Bobby Brown as Enola Holmes: Intelligent, bold, charismatic, and energetic. In this installment, she appears more mature, yet still retains her rebellious and curious essence.
• Henry Cavill as Sherlock Holmes: More present and developed than in the first part. His sisterly chemistry with Enola is strengthened, and his participation is key to the main plot.
• Louis Partridge as Lord Tewkesbury: Enola's romantic interest. More involved in the action, he helps both emotionally and physically with the investigation.
• David Thewlis as Superintendent Grail: New antagonist. A corrupt and dangerous police officer who doesn't hesitate to use violence to cover up state secrets.
• Sharon Duncan-Brewster as Look at Troy (a key character that will surprise Sherlock Holmes fans).
• Helena Bonham Carter as Eudoria Holmes: Enola and Sherlock's anarchist mother. She appears in a supporting but impactful role.
• Susan Wokoma as Edith: Teahouse owner and feminist ally. She supports Enola with wisdom and combat skills.

Reviews

Enola Holmes 2 It was critically acclaimed, with praise for its pacing, performances, and more ambitious tone than the first film.

Positive highlights:

• Millie Bobby Brown shines: Her performance maintains the balance between strength, vulnerability and humor, consolidating her as a versatile actress.
• Best Narrative Development: The story is more complex, connected to real historical events (such as the Match Girls' strike in 1888).
• Relevant social issues: It addresses issues such as labor abuse, gender inequality, and sisterhood, without losing its youthful tone.
• Greater interaction with Sherlock: Cavill has more presence and brings an interesting counterpoint to Enola's energy.
• Dynamic visual and narrative style: Breaks the fourth wall, includes explanatory graphics and quick transitions that keep the pace entertaining.

Negative reviews:

• Somewhat irregular tone: At times, the drama shifts rather abruptly to comedy.
• Too many subplots: Some viewers may feel overwhelmed by the number of characters and clues.
• Predictable ending for fans of the detective genre.

Public reception

The public received Enola Holmes 2 with enthusiasm, especially in the teen and family segment. It was one of the most-watched titles on Netflix during their premiere week, and its success consolidated Millie Bobby Brown not only as an actress, but also as an executive producer of the saga.

In Rotten Tomatoes, the film obtained a 93% public approval and a 74% of criticism, indicating a very favorable reception.

In IMDb, maintains a rating of 6.8/10, and was trending on social media for its visual style, inspiring story, and positive feminist message.

Many viewers appreciated that, although it is a "young adult" film, it does not underestimate its audience, addressing important issues with intelligence and sensitivity.

Technical and visual aspects

• Artistic directionThe recreation of Victorian London is impeccable, with sets, costumes and settings packed with detail, from dirty factories to elegant ballrooms.
• Photograph: Uses dynamic framing, expressive angles and rich colors to differentiate worlds (the factory vs. the elite spaces).
• Creative montage: The scenes where Enola breaks the fourth wall, analyzes clues or imagines possibilities are fast-paced, fun and very well constructed visually.
• Locker roomThe costume design reflects both the characters' personalities and their evolution. Enola moves from traditional dresses to more practical clothing, marking her symbolic transition.
• Soundtrack: Composed by Daniel Pemberton, it blends classic and modern tones, helping to create a unique aural identity for the series.

Conclusion

Enola Holmes 2 It's a sequel that improves and expands on everything its predecessor did right. With an even stronger protagonist, a better-structured story, and a more powerful message, the film cements itself as one of Netflix's best youth productions.

Millie Bobby Brown proves she can lead a franchise with charisma and depth, while the Victorian setting and detective mysteries are kept fresh thanks to the writer-director's modern approach.

Ideal for Sherlock Holmes fans, teenagers looking for inspirational role models, or any lover of detective films with a contemporary twist, Enola Holmes 2 It is fun, relevant and visually charming.

With the open ending leaving new possibilities, it wouldn't be surprising if Enola Holmes 3 is already on its way. And if it is, welcome to another case for this young detective with a name of her own!