As the title proclaims, this is a look at the famed detective long before he was the noted character he became. It starts with him in jail and travels to Oxford where the adventures begin. While solving his first case, he befriends a student with the familiar name of Moriarty (who later becomes his nemesis). Their relationship solidifies with solving their first case together. Guy Ritchie started the series with his directing style, which includes snappy quips, quick editing and the inevitable untamed action. Hero Fiennes Tiffin holds the title role with a modest presence, while Dónal Finn, as Moriarty, has more pluck and polish. The series does jump around in story and style, ranging from lively adventure to darker drama. It’s also cute to see other things that will later become trademarks, like his deer stalker hat. While there are enjoyable elements, particularly the relationship of the duo, the show’s approach runs all over the place, which keeps it from being as exciting or innovative as it might have been. (Review based on 5 out of 8 one-hour eps) 
(3 / 5)
