Noted film director Guy Ritchie is shifting his focus to the small screen. He is poised to trade his expertise to direct and executive produce the much-anticipated Prime Video series ‘Young Sherlock’. The series will star Hero Fiennes Tiffin, known for his roles in films such as ‘Harry Potter’ and ‘After’.
The Director’s New Thrust
Ritchie has previously enjoyed success with his direction of the blockbuster Sherlock Holmes films. However, he stepped away from the third installment, opening the opportunity for Robert Downey Jr. to take the reins. The international star showed a keen interest in curating the direction of the franchise, leading Ritchie to explore new avenues in storytelling.
Spotlight on ‘Young Sherlock’
Inspired by the book series by author Andy Lane, Ritchie’s ‘Young Sherlock’ will cast Fiennes Tiffin in the role of the iconic detective. With Downey Jr.’s interest to guide future Holmes endeavors, Ritchie has set his sights on a more youthful depiction of this beloved character.
The Unsteady Path of ‘Sherlock Holmes 3’
Ritchie’s departure from ‘Sherlock Holmes 3’ led to the enlistment of ‘Rocketman’ director Dexter Fletcher in 2019. Though he seemed a fitting choice, Fletcher’s addition has increased conjecture over the film’s future. Many of the major players attached to the project have packed schedules, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fletcher communicated his disappointment over the setbacks faced in reviving the film after the pandemic. Underscoring the sensitive nature of such a project, he noted that aligning everyone involved in the film process is proving difficult given the tight schedules.
Absorbing the Success of the Holmes Franchise
The first two installments of ‘Sherlock Holmes’, starring Downey Jr. and Jude Law, were resounding successes. The two films grossed nearly $500 million and $535 million respectively, demonstrating their commercial potency. Given these impressive figures, it becomes crucial for Warner Bros. to lock Downey Jr. for the third film.
Ritchie’s Move Away From Downey Jr.’s Holmes Saga
Ritchie has shared insights into his decision to step away from the franchise. He conveyed that he left the ball in Downey Jr.’s court. Ritchie acknowledged Downey Jr’s wish to be in charge of the script and the entire feature while he keeps a safe distance.
But Ritchie’s ties to the Sherlock Holmes universe are not completely severed. He has teamed up with actor Fiennes Tiffin – whom he previously worked with on ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ – for the ‘Young Sherlock’ series.
The Writer and Showrunner for ‘Young Sherlock’
Matthew Parkhill has been enlisted to write and run the upcoming ‘Young Sherlock’ series. His involvement bolsters the project’s promise and ambition for the Prime Video platform.
For fans eagerly waiting for more Holmes adventures, the first two films can be rented and watched on AppleTV+. As for ‘Sherlock Holmes 3′, the film’s future remains in limbo, under the stewardship of Downey Jr. and the busy schedules of all involved.
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