29. Pursuit to Algiers (1945)
IMDB score = 7.1/10
Holmes and Watson? = Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce
Synopsis = Holmes is recruited to escort the heir to a European throne safely back to his homeland after his father's assassination.
Defense by Paul Thomas Miller:
This film has all of the five elements I've just decided there must be in a good Holmes film:
1. Canonical nods: Holmes fakes his death and is resurrected when it suits him. Watson regales a captivated audience with the story of the Giant Rat of Sumatra.
2. Insights into the Canon: Holmes states "The late Professor Moriarty was a virtuoso of the bassoon." providing much needed further details on the mysterious Napoleon of Crime.
3. Stalwart Watson: While Bruce's Watson often came across as a buffoon (and this film is a prime example), here we see him as the loyal companion to Holmes, willing to put his trust in his friend and follow any instructions.
4. Exploding Christmas crackers.
5. A touch of Johnlock: At about 59 minutes in (just after the festive dinner scene), we are treated to the dashing Basil Rathbone as good as sitting in Nigel Bruce's lap.
