Upon learning that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous and beloved detective was to be presented on the big screen with flairs of action and romance, many fans may feel doubtful, even shocked. This new Sherlock Holmes in question, directed by Guy Ritchie, famous for his action gigs, shows a brand new, more human side of the crime-solving machine Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.), both in his interactions with close friend Dr. Watson (Jude Law) and his romantic involvement with the mysterious yet attractive Irene Adler (Rachel McAdams).

Indeed, Ritchie’s Holmes is—different, to say the least. Instead of the purely rational, pale and lanky Holmes as described by Conan Doyle, Downey’s Holmes is a coy street boxer who is rather boyish in his expressions of discontent towards Watson’s relationship with Mary Morstan (Kelly Reilly) and his endeavors to hide from Irene Adler his affections for her—which were nonexistent in the novels. With these new traits and relationships, the new Holmes is made more endearing to the modern audience than ever. That is not to say, however, that the “true” side of Holmes is nonexistent: the ability to see through a stranger’s history, the cunning art of using disguises, the refusal to give in to the superstitious occurrences presented by Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong), and the occasional lapses into tobacco and odd experiments are all stamped with the Sherlock Holmes trademark.

Law’s portrayal of Watson, too, is a breakthrough for the famous sidekick/foil. In famous previous productions with comedian Nigel Bruce playing Watson, the doctor was depicted as a bumbling idiot, and the unfortunate image stuck for many a of the old films. In the recent version, the aspects of Watson that involve his being a medical professional, a “ladies’ man,” a former army man skilled with the revolver were thoroughly explored by Law. On the contrary, the Holmes boxing in the streets with a set of six-packs was never present in the books—then again, it all comes down to whether or not you mind a little bit of Iron Man abs involvement.

Another side of the two main characters that added much charisma and humor to the film is the “bromance” between Downey and Law. Sometimes bickering like an old couple (“My rooms.” “Our rooms.” “My dog.” “Our dog.”), and other times saving each others’ lives, the pair’s friendship is taken to a new, comical, and relatable level by Ritchie, Downey and Law.

Despite its charming details and characterizations, the general plot of the movie is merely passable. Lord Blackwood, a man claiming to possess magical powers, manages to put “London in terror.” His apparent returning from the grave, after none other than Watson announcing him to be dead, and attempts to take over the country with his supreme powers (an original thought) sets an intrigued Holmes using all his analytical powers to get to the bottom of the case, also at the cause of Irene Adler’s involvement and his desire to clear Watson’s name.

Yet again, viewers must remember that Ritchie is not famous for ingenious or inspirational plotlines, but the action, humor and character chemistry he provides will not disappoint. With a dream cast and a very capable CGI team, Sherlock Holmes is an entertaining action thriller that may raise a few eyebrows from avid readers, but is definitely a pleasant and worthwhile experience for the average moviegoer.