‘Enola Holmes’ perfectly combines mystery with social reform

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Enola Holmes ( Millie Bobby Brown) is the younger sister of Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft (Sam Claflin) on a mission to find her missing mother. This movie is a great introduction to the world of Holmes for older elementary or middle school kids.

The movie is based on the YA book series of the same name by Nancy Springer, a story that expands on the Holmes world and brings in new characters. The story is set during London’s social reform period and covers the topic of the women’s suffrage moment.

Enola is raised by her widowed mother, Eudoria (Helena Bonham Carter), in the countryside. Eudoria teaches her daughter how to play tennis, paint, bike, and makes her read every book in the house. But on Enola’s 16th birthday her mother disappears and her brothers reappear. Enola becomes Mycroft’s ward, and he sends her to Miss Harrison’s Finishing School, where Enola’s path to becoming a super-sleuth begins.

On Enola’s journey, she meets many new people, including Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge), a young lord, also running away from his traditional family. The two form a close bond and change the course of history.

Some elements of “Enola Holmes” reminded me of “Knives Out” because of the excellent misdirection and the familial aspect, where characters are making difficult choices that will affect others.

“Enola Holmes” is definitely a perfect mystery thriller and has some great jump scares. I found the soundtrack to go with the scenes wonderfully. The acting in the movie makes you feel so connected to the characters and you hurt seeing them hurt. If you are looking for a family movie for older elementary or middle school kids then this movie is great.

Enola Homes is rated PG-13, the runtime is 2hr and 3min. It was directed by Harry Bradbeer and is avalable on Netflix.