The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother is a 1975 mystery-comedy film produced as a British–American collaboration. It marked the feature directing debut of Gene Wilder, who also plays the central role. The picture features an ensemble cast that includes Madeline Kahn, Marty Feldman, Dom DeLuise and Mel Brooks. The studio release was handled by 20th Century Fox.
Cast
- Gene Wilder — leads the film
- Madeline Kahn
- Marty Feldman
- Dom DeLuise
- Mel Brooks
- Roy Kinnear
Plot
The story is a comic pastiche set in the world of Sherlock Holmes. Wilder portrays a younger relation of Holmes who seeks to prove himself by solving an unusual case. The film blends elements of mystery with broad, often satirical humor, sending up the conventions of Victorian detective fiction while following a straightforward whodunit through a series of oddball encounters.
Production and release
Made and released in 1975, the film is notable for being Gene Wilder's first time in the director's chair and for bringing together several well-known comic performers of the era. 20th Century Fox distributed the movie to international markets.
Reception
Contemporary reviews were mixed: some critics appreciated the affectionate lampooning of Sherlock Holmes material and the performances, while others found the comedic tone uneven. Over time the film has retained a place among fans of the principal performers for its playful spirit and period pastiche.