Mr. Holmes 2015

Holmes in Sussex

In 1947, the once-great detective Sherlock Holmes lives a quiet life at the age of 93 in a farmhouse in Sussex. He is accompanied by his housekeeper Mrs. Munro and her son Roger, who bring a semblance of normalcy to his declining years.

Memory Loss and Experimentation

Holmes has returned from a trip to Hiroshima, where he was involved in an experiment with a prickly ash plant to help improve his waning memory. Struggling with recollections, he becomes particularly distressed over the narrative of his last case, *The Adventure of the Dove Grey Glove*, penned by his old friend Dr. Watson.

Bonding with Roger

As time passes, Holmes develops a close relationship with the young Roger, allowing him to help care for the bees on the farm. Their interactions ignite a sense of paternal affection in Holmes, who finds joy in Roger's curiosity and lively spirit.

Recollections of the Past

The narrative shifts back nearly thirty years to a time right after the First World War. Holmes reflects on a troubling case involving Thomas Kelmot, who sought Holmes's expertise regarding his wife Ann, who had become estranged following two miscarriages.

Holmes Investigates Ann

Holmes is drawn into Ann's life as he follows her through London, suspecting her of attempting to murder her husband. She appears to be forging cheques and planning her own demise, driving Holmes to uncover the deeper pain behind her actions.

Ann's Confession

During their meeting, Ann confesses her overwhelming loneliness and despair, revealing her intentions to secure gravestones for her lost children and eventually take her own life. Despite his own temptation to connect with her, Holmes urges her to return to Thomas, hoping to save her from herself.

Tragic Outcome

After Ann pledges her promise by pouring poison onto the ground, Holmes later learns of her tragic suicide under a train. Consumed by guilt over not being able to help her, Holmes retreats into a life of isolation and despair.

Encounter in Japan

In a recent visit to Japan, Holmes meets Tamiki Umezaki, who mistakenly believes Holmes abandoned his own family. Umezaki confronts Holmes about his father's mysterious disappearance, adding to Holmes's regrets about past relationships.

Mrs. Munro's Struggles

Back in Sussex, Mrs. Munro finds the demands of caring for Holmes increasingly burdensome, leading to tension between her and young Roger. As Roger dreams of a life beyond their current circumstances, Mrs. Munro seeks employment to stabilize their situation.

Roger's Accident

While attempting to aid the apiary, young Roger gets stung by wasps and collapses in the garden. This incident prompts a moment of blame directed at Holmes from Mrs. Munro, highlighting their shared concern for Roger's wellbeing in a tense situation.

Hospital Recovery

Following the accident, both Holmes and Mrs. Munro swiftly work together to take Roger to the hospital. After the scare, Roger begins to recover, facilitating a shift in dynamics and further solidifying the bond they share.

Holmes' Confession

In a moment of vulnerability, Holmes expresses to Mrs. Munro the fear and guilt he feels regarding his inability to comfort Ann. He reveals his desire for her and Roger to be a permanent part of his life, offering them a share of his estate as an assurance.

A Final Letter

Holmes writes a heartfelt letter to Umezaki about his father, trying to portray him as a man of noble character. This act symbolizes Holmes's continuing struggle with his past, while seeking to make amends for lost connections.

Legacy of the Bees

As Roger learns to beekeep under Holmes's guidance, Holmes finds peace in nurturing life and creating a legacy reminiscent of his past experiences. His actions serve to honor those he has lost, demonstrating growth even in the twilight of his life.