Elementary

It is inevitable that this show be compared to Cumberbatch's 'Sherlock', and to others which have taken inspiration from Holmes (e.g. House M.D.). If you're wondering if this show is worth watching, your first question will be 'is this as good as those?'. The short answer is 'No, it is not'. However, that isn't to say that this show isn't good. It's solid, incorporates humour and intrigue into ongoing storylines; its lapses into the formulaic are excusable. It is, in all respects, 'good'. The difference is simply that this is good, while the aforementioned others are great. If you haven't seen 'Sherlock', 'House M.D.' or similar, this should not be where you start; where this show has pretensions towards intellectualism, those hold it in truth. Where this show is well-written in places, those are well-written throughout. In particular, where this show's Sherlock is fairly well acted, Cumberbatch (and indeed, Laurie) give exquisite performances. The single shining light of this show, the only area it truly manages to excel, is in Lucy Liu's performance as Watson; in many ways more important than even Sherlock's role, Watson is there to be a relatable 'everyman' character while still bringing their own measure of brilliance. Liu manages this and more, and is every bit the veteran actress her pedigree implies. To conclude, then, watch Sherlock. Then watch House M.D. Then take a look around other Sherlock-related performances as well. If, once you're finished, you're still looking for mystery-solving, intrigue and fun, come back to this show. You will be disappointed - it's impossible not to be - but nonetheless it will scratch that itch.

Johnny Lee Miller is brilliant as Sherlock, as is his old friend Rhys Ifans as Mycroft, and also English, I have no idea why Thor said that he wasn't and compared it to Sherlock, giving it one star, I found this to be far superior to the watered down, long winded Sherlock with Cumberbatch, also Sherlock was an addict and battles with his demons on a daily basis, for me, there's no comparison.

Perfect pairiing for intelligent entertainment with amusing dark humour. Can't get enough! And Google.... the gorgeous Captain is 'Tommy' Gregson not Tobias/Toby.