The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother

Gene Wilder reunited with Young Frankenstein co-stars Madeline Kahn and Marty Feldman for his directorial debut, playing Sigerson Holmes—the younger, pathologically jealous brother of Mycroft and Sherlock (or "Sheer Luck," as Sigerson calls him)—who is determined to make his own name as a detective. Kahn is his client, a dance hall singer who is being blackmailed, and Feldman is an eccentric Scotland Yard detective with a phonographic memory: i.e., he has perfect audio recall, but sometimes it takes a tap to the head to access his files. Wilder cuts a dashing figure as Sigerson, who is observant, quick-witted, and a talented swordsman, and he has great rapport with the cast, which also includes Leo McKern as Moriarty, Roy Kinnear as Sigerson's loyal but often befuddled minion, and Dom DeLuise as an opera singer with a gusto for life and a passion for blackmail. The script lacks the inspiration and ingenuity of Young Frankenstein but the film does come to life in a few madcap scenes, including an absurd musical interlude and a free-for-all scramble during a ridiculous opera. Thorley Walters reprises the role of Dr. Watson, which he played twice in earlier productions, and Albert Finney has a jokey cameo. The recent death of Wilder will likely increase interest in this film and Sherlock Holmes fans may appreciate the spoofing of detective conventions. Extras include an audio commentary by Wilder. A strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)