Genre Engagement & Viewer Involvement

Sherlock Holmes engages with the typical structure of the genre of detective fiction. Sherlock plays the part of the brilliant detective and Dr Watson plays the part of his companion/sidekick this is a typical pairing of most crime stories. The plot revolves around Sherlock solving a series of mysteries and murders, always trying to catch the killer which is the typical format of a true crime thriller.

However, what makes Sherlock different is despite the traditional genre engagement the writers of the show managed to blend in modern elements which help to engage the audience. It provides something more relatable to a younger audience such as the modern setting of London and the use of modern technology such as GPS, smartphones and internet searches as well as using fast editing techniques and perfectly tailoring the music to each scene. The inclusion of the killer being a cab driver adds to the idea that this happens in the modern world.

Enola Holmes also follows the same detective fiction genre - trying to solve a mystery, trying to break codes and using disguises. As she tries to solve the mystery of her mother’s disappearance, the story develops to include techniques such as trying to keep the audience guessing and making them think they have solved the mystery only to include a last minute plot twist (with her grandmother being the true villain). 

The directors of Enola Holmes also aim to involve the viewer into the story and make them feel immersed in the story. Enola speaks directly to the camera engaging with the viewers and making it feel more personal for them.  When she enters Basilwether Hall she also says things like “Tis I” to the camera, this makes the audience feel like they are helping solve the case, they are also playing the part of a detective.