Imagine being the younger sibling of one of the most famous detectives in the world. In Gene Wilder’s directorial debut, The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes’ Smarter Brother, he stars as Sigerson Holmes, Sherlock’s lesser-known brother. Determined to prove his superior intellect, Sigerson takes on a case his famous brother (“Sheer Luck” Holmes) has passed on, but as you might expect in a Wilder comedy, things don’t go quite according to plan.
Backed by a zany cast of characters, including Marty Feldman as a bumbling clerk with a photographic memory and Madeline Kahn as a sultry yet mysterious singer, the film delights in absurd, over-the-top humor. Dom DeLuise steals a few scenes as the flamboyant opera singer Eduardo Gambetti, while Wilder himself brings his signature manic energy to a role that’s equal parts detective and disaster. From slapstick mishaps to chaotic musical numbers, The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes’ Smarter Brother embraces its ridiculousness, offering a playful, tongue-in-cheek spin on classic detective stories.
The main character’s fluctuating intelligence can be a bit frustrating, especially since it would have been more satisfying had he showcased more of his smarts in the third act, but the comedy set pieces deliver solid chuckles throughout. One standout moment involves an opera that’s hilariously interrupted, even if that joke gets repeated twice in the film. There are instances where the editing can undermine a joke, like when a car falls onto the stage; it lingers a bit too long instead of hitting with a quicker punch. The film’s score adds a level of seriousness that enhances the overall experience. Ultimately, The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes’ Smarter Brother offers an enjoyable time that’s easy to watch, with Gene Wilder’s performance being a true highlight.
- 1One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
- 2Dersu Uzala
- 3Jaws
- 4Nashville
- 5Manila in the Claws of Light
- 31The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother#31 of 51
- Where to watch
- Not available for streaming
- Where to watch
- Not available for streaming
Play trailer
- Original title
- The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother
- Director
- Gene Wilder
- Cast
- Gene Wilder, Madeline Kahn, Marty Feldman, Dom DeLuise, Leo McKern, Roy Kinnear, John Le Mesurier, Douglas Wilmer
- Rated
- PG
- Screenwriter
- Gene Wilder
- Composer
- John Morris
- Cinematography
- Gerry Fisher
- Editor
- Jim Clark
- Country
- Language
- English
- Budget
- $2.8 million
- Box office
- $20 million