Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law are back again as the infamous duo Sherlock Holmes and John Watson.Taking on a new case, Holmes and Watson are after Moriarty, a professor who wants to take over the greater part of the Western Hemisphere. 

The cunning, intellectually untouchable Holmes just might meet his match in this sequel, as his ability to predict each move of a fight before it happens is matched. Every time he thinks he is one step ahead of Moriarty, he is really one step behind.

A minor downfall of the sequel is its serious tone. Although Watson and Holmes’ relationship is still entertaining, much of the witty banter and suggestive undertones are lost. The film as a whole is dark and ominous rather than exciting and thrilling. 

Rachel McAdams’ character, Irene Adler, only makes an appearance in the first half hour or so of the film. The lack of her feisty, flirty antics adds to the overall solemnity. The new head female is Madam Sim, a gypsy played by Noomi Rapace, who is travelling with Holmes and Watson in search of her brother.

What the film lacks in vivacity it makes up for in visuals. With slow motion fisticuffs, explosions and simple scenery, the entire film is aesthetically astounding. 

Overall, “A Game of Shadows” did not have quite the same edge as the first film, but was a good movie in its own right. Keeping the original cast was a smart move, and although the change of tone was surprising, it definitely added to the drama of the game.