Mr. Holmes

Mr. Holmes

Year: 2015

Runtime: 104 min

Language: English

Director: Bill Condon

DramaMysteryCrime

As an aging Sherlock Holmes (Ian McKellen) returns from a journey to Japan, he grapples with the lingering impact of the atomic bomb and seeks refuge in the quiet of the countryside. Accompanied by his devoted housekeeper and her inquisitive young son, Roger, Holmes finds himself increasingly preoccupied with an unsolved case from his past. As his mind begins to fail, he desperately seeks to unravel the mystery and confront life's most profound questions before his memories fade completely.

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Timeline – Mr. Holmes (2015)

Trace every key event in Mr. Holmes (2015) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

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.

1947 Sussex
2

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.

Sussex
3

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.

Sussex
4

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.

Post World War I London
5

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.

London
6

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.

London
7

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.

London
8

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.

Japan
9

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.

Sussex
10

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.

Sussex
11

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.

Hospital
12

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.

Sussex
13

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.

Sussex
14

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.

Sussex
15

Creating a Stone Circle

Holmes decides to create a stone circle, symbolizing remembrance of those dear to him. This act draws parallels to his experiences in Hiroshima, allowing him to reflect on love and loss amidst his current life's tranquility.

Sussex

Last Updated: November 09, 2024 at 11:22

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Mr. Holmes Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Mr. Holmes

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Mr. Holmes

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