But wait, there's more.

[chalcedony]

I posted my opinion of Star Trek Into Darkness last night, and completely forgot to mention Benedict Cumberbatch. I've been pretty vocal about how much I dislike him as Sherlock Holmes, and frankly I expected to hate him in this too. I was wrong, however. Much to my surprise, I thought he was excellent as the villain of the piece, Section 31 spy John Harrison (nudge, nudge, wink, wink). All the characteristics I objected to in his portrayal of the great detective were perfect for this character, who is often played as very over the top. I would even go so far as to say that Cumberbatch has found his acting niche in playing villains. I can't wait to see what he does with Smaug.

I do have other issues with casting Cumberbatch in this role, but they are 21st concerns and really have nothing to do with either the actor or his talent. It's not his fault that he's a lanky white boy with a posh British accent.

Comments

[thistlethorn.livejournal.com]

Thank you, both for the earlier review, and this. I liked Cumberbatch in the first series of BBC Sherlock, but thus far I haven't been motivated to watch Series 2. I've also seen him in other roles where I liked him just fine. It's just that the Sherlock fans revere and foist him on us so relentlessly that I've gotten a sort of anti-BC reaction now and find him tiresome. This is through no fault of the actor! Also, Martin Freeman? I like the actor just fine, but he, too, has become so ubiquitous that seeing him as Bilbo was really, "Oh, look, it's Martin-Freeman-as-Bilbo-Baggins." I never quite could shake the knowledge that it was Martin Freeman playing the role, rather than just forgetting the actor and enjoying the character. His voice/facial expressions are too well-known to me by now.

As for Reboot 1 or 2, I'm keeping myself pure by avoiding them. I even get irritated when i see "Star Trek" listed in my satellite TV guide and think, "Oh, yeah, a Star Trek episode. Then I realize, "Oh, wait, no--it's that repulsive Reboot thing." SUCH a disappointment.

I'd rather watch And The Children Shall Lead, Mark of Gideon, and Turnabout Intruder back to back than Reboot.

[kirbyfest.livejournal.com]

I like him fine as Sherlock-- but I don't bring many expectations to the table about that character. I've seen BC in other things and he's quite good as well. Did you see the re-done Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy? I think he's a very good actor in general (and not a bad guy), so I'm looking forward to seeing him in this. Eventually.

The Holmes I expected to loathe was Jonny Lee Miller. Color me corrected in a major. freaking. way.