'Sherlock Holmes': A Fun Movie and a Bright New Star

Coming on the heels, as it did, of the dreadful "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy," "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" offered up two delights: Noomi Rapace and engaging escapist fare that brightened the entire day.

Noomi Rapace as the gypsy Simza (left) is the scene-stealing star of the original "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" (the real one, not the American remake) and an actress so engaging that even the wondrously talented Robert Downey Jr. (Sherlock) shrinks to midget status when sharing a scene with her.

In the newest installment of the never-ending Sherlock Holmes series, our sleuth is again faced with the demented genius Professor Moriarty (a sinister presence played by Jared Harris) and is ably assisted by his Dr. Watson (Jude Law). a solid cast includes Rachael McAdams and the delightful Stephen Fry. But it is Noomi Rapace, as a gypsy caught in the middle of the chase who steals the movie. She ranks right there with some marvy special effects (a lot of mind stuff with Sherlock) and clever dialogue.

This one's the kind of movie I so enjoy on a cold Sunday afternoon in January: pure escapism with no message, characters you can like and dislike, lots of stuff happening at every turn and somebody to fall in love with (guess who). If you want to stay in the winter depressive blahs, go see "Tinker, Tailor ..." If you want a little summer bright, this one'll do.