It’s (almost) the most wonderful time of the year, and after whetting our collective appetite with last week’s riveting teaser trailer, the BBC has announced an official title and release date for the Sherlock Christmas special: that is, Sherlock: The Abominable Bride.
Due to air on New Year’s Day across both the United Kingdom and the States, the standalone episode will whisk Holmes (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Watson (Martin Freeman) back to Victorian London, replete with horse-drawn carriages and some really rather stylish facial hair. There’s danger afoot in the 19th century, however, with our likeable duo returning to the fray to solve a seemingly impossible case – one which is right in their wheelhouse.
In tandem with today’s announcement, BBC unveiled the official synopsis for The Abominable Bride.
“Benedict Cumberbatch (The Imitation Game) and Martin Freeman (The Hobbit) return as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson in the acclaimed modern retelling of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic stories. But now our heroes find themselves in 1890s London. Beloved characters Mary Morstan (played by Amanda Abbington), Inspector Lestrade (Rupert Graves) and Mrs. Hudson (Una Stubbs) also turn up at 221b Baker Street.”
For all of the critical acclaim heaped onto Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat’s modern interpretation of the famed sleuth, it’ll be fascinating to see how the writing pair situate the character within a period setting. Last week’s reveal trailer was rife with subtle homages and references to Arthur Conan Doyle’s prestigious body of work – such as the famous deerstalker hat – not to mention the entertaining dynamic between Freeman and Cumberbatch’s leading pair. This festive season, you’re cordially invited back to 221b Baker Street, where Una Stubbs’ Mrs. Hudson will no doubt have the kettle on.
Sherlock: The Abominable Bride will now air on January 1, 2016, which ought to sate our appetite for the time being as we look longingly toward season 4.
