Young Sherlock Review: Prime Video’s Bold Moriarty Twist

Guy Ritchie’s Young Sherlock brings mystery, action and a surprising Moriarty friendship to Prime Video. Here’s why fans are talking about it.

We’re sure you have heard about Sherlock in your life. Now, it’s high time to watch his younger version in Amazon Prime Video’s Young Sherlock.  Directed and executive produced by Guy Ritchie, the series reimagines Sherlock Holmes as a naughty Oxford student, who got caught in a deadly mystery long before he becomes the legendary sleuth we know.

The web show is created by Matthew Parkhill and is based on Andrew Lane’s young adult novels. It mixes whodunnit, curious, spy drama, and Ritchie’s signature fast-talking, slow-motion style. But does this teenage version of Holmes live up to the legacy? Let’s decode it with the Young Sherlock Review. Before review, watch its trailer:

 

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A Murder at Oxford Changes Everything

Set against the grand backdrop of Oxford University, the story starts with a shocking murder that puts young Sherlock at the centre of suspicion. Played by Hero Fiennes Tiffin, this version of Holmes is sharp, hasty, and not the polished genius audiences remember from past adaptations.

To clear his name, Sherlock launches his personal investigation. It follows is a globe-trotting mystery including secret manuscripts, deadly weapons, political changes, and hidden family secrets. The conspiracy goes beyond Oxford to war-torn Paris during the Franco-Prussian War and even to Constantinople, raising the stakes far above a simple campus crime.

The tone is big, loud, and energetic,  similar to Ritchie’s earlier Sherlock films. Hence, you should expect fast edits, stylised action beats, and characters trading clever banter mid-fight.

A Surprising Best Friend: Moriarty

One of the boldest creative choices in Young Sherlock is the reworking of Holmes’s greatest enemy. Instead of introducing Dr. Watson, the series pairs Sherlock with a young James Moriarty, yes, that Moriarty.

Played with confidence and charm by Dónal Finn, this Moriarty is not the criminal mastermind fans expect. Instead, he’s Sherlock’s closest allies as they untangle the mystery together. Their dynamic creates the emotional backbone of the show.

The friendship raises a constant question: will this bond eventually crack? The tension surrounding that possibility keeps viewers guessing, which adds emotional depth to a character often portrayed as purely villainous.

The Holmes Family Drama

Besides the central mystery, it explores Sherlock’s troubled home life. His mother, Cordelia, played by Natascha McElhone, has been institutionalised after a family tragedy. His father, Silas, portrayed by Joseph Fiennes, is distant and largely absent.

Sherlock’s older brother, Mycroft, played by Max Irons, tries to keep him in line, even forcing him to work as a porter at Oxford. The tension between the brothers adds another layer to the story, as danger boosts and they are forced to cooperate.

These family elements give the show more heart than expected. The emotional stakes are not limited to solving crimes; they are about trust, grief, and loyalty.

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Princess, Professors, and Political Intrigue

The mystery widens with the arrival of Princess Gulun Shou’an, played by Zine Tseng. She comes with her a mysterious fifth-century scroll and a series of dangerous secrets. Her presence ties into a shadowy government mission plus a string of targeted murders among Oxford academics.

Veteran actor Colin Firth adds gravitas as Sir Bucephalus Hodge, a college authority figure caught in the growing chaos. Though his role isn’t as large as some might hope, he has a sharp wit and steady presence whenever he appears.

Guy Ritchie’s Style — Hit and Miss?

Fans of Ritchie’s earlier Holmes films, particularly Sherlock Holmes (2009) and its 2011 sequel, will recognise familiar touches. Slow-motion fight scenes, instage montages and stylised action scenes are all here.

While the dialogue and performances shine, the action scenes don’t always reach the same heights as Ritchie’s last work. Some scenes are less memorable than expected. Still, the pacing is brisk enough to keep the eight episodes engaging.

A Strong Lead Performance

Fiennes Tiffin gives a lighter and more carefree energy to Sherlock. This isn’t the fully formed master detective yet. He’s cocky, emotional, and occasionally reckless. That immaturity works in the show’s favour, making his journey feel authentic.

His chemistry with Dónal Finn is a standout, which hides other characters. Their back-and-forth exchanges provide humour and tension.

Will There Be Season 2?

The first season ends in a way that leaves room for more stories. While nothing has been officially confirmed, the open conclusion suggests the door is wide open for a second chapter.

With Ritchie actively juggling multiple projects, fans may not have to wait too long to see this young detective return.

Final Verdict

Young Sherlock gives a fresh spin on a legendary character. By focusing on his teenage years and rewriting his relationship with Moriarty, the show takes creative risks that mostly pay off.

The mystery is engaging, the performances are strong, and the emotional arcs feel earned. While the action may not always hit peak levels, the overall experience is entertaining and ambitious.

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Published: 4 March 2026 at 4:45 PM| Updated: 4 March 2026 at 4:49 PM