Since making her debut in 2020, Enola Holmes has evolved from Sherlock Holmes' underestimated younger sister into a sharp investigator capable of holding her own alongside the legendary detective. In Enola Holmes 3, that growth is evident as the story balances clever detective work with personal choices that ultimately shape her future.
Millie Bobby Brown once again anchors the film with an energetic and charismatic performance, bringing both intelligence and warmth to the title character. The actress effortlessly switches between moments of humour, vulnerability and determination, reminding viewers why Enola has become one of Netflix's most popular original characters.
The story initially appears to head in an unexpected direction as Enola prepares to marry Lord Tewkesbury, played once again by Louis Partridge. Set against the picturesque scenery of Malta, the opening promises a joyous celebration before events quickly take a dramatic turn.
The wedding plans are interrupted when Sherlock Holmes mysteriously disappears, forcing Enola to abandon her ceremony and launch into what becomes her most personal investigation yet. The disappearance of her famous brother raises the stakes considerably, drawing the detective into a dangerous conspiracy that tests both her intellect and courage.
While the premise stretches credibility at times—particularly the ease with which someone as brilliant as Sherlock becomes a victim—the film compensates with engaging detective sequences. Enola pieces together clues with remarkable precision, transforming seemingly ordinary details into crucial evidence through a series of satisfying investigative moments.
Director Philip Barantini, taking over from Harry Bradbeer, successfully preserves the playful energy that defined the first two films while introducing a more cinematic style. Dynamic camera movements, stylish long takes and brisk editing give the mystery a fresh visual identity without losing the light-hearted charm audiences have come to expect.
Jack Thorne's screenplay also allows the series to mature alongside its audience. Rather than relying solely on fast-paced action and witty exchanges, the film spends more time exploring Enola's emotional state as she questions what adulthood, marriage and independence truly mean.
Unlike earlier installments, however, the film places less emphasis on broader social issues. Themes such as women's rights and labour movements, which played important roles in previous stories, take a back seat. References to Maltese political struggles and Dr. Watson's military past are introduced but never fully explored, making them feel secondary to the central family drama.
Helena Bonham Carter returns as Enola's unconventional mother, Eudoria Holmes, once again injecting scenes with humour, wisdom and unpredictability. Henry Cavill also reprises his role as Sherlock, although much of his involvement serves to propel Enola's journey rather than dominate it.
One of the film's strongest elements is the return of Moriarty, portrayed with commanding presence by Sharon Duncan-Brewster. The iconic villain provides a formidable challenge for Enola, leading to several tense confrontations that combine emotional intensity with well-executed action choreography. Their rivalry gives the film genuine suspense while raising the emotional stakes.
Beyond the mystery itself, Enola Holmes 3 succeeds because it avoids reducing its heroine to a conventional action figure. Enola remains intellectually gifted, fiercely independent and physically capable, but the film also embraces her romantic side and emotional vulnerability. It presents a young woman who refuses to see love and ambition as mutually exclusive.
Visually enhanced by Malta's breathtaking landscapes and supported by a returning ensemble cast, the latest chapter delivers an enjoyable mystery that blends detective work, family relationships and self-discovery. Although some supporting storylines lack the depth of previous installments, the film offers enough charm, wit and emotional resonance to keep the franchise moving confidently forward.
Rating: 4/5
Enola Holmes 3 proves that the series is growing with its audience, offering a more mature story without sacrificing the adventurous spirit and clever storytelling that made the franchise a success.