Bending the Willow: Jeremy Brett As Sherlock Holmes

This book blew me away. I'd rate it higher than five if I could.

Since my childhood, I have loved the Granada series starring Brett. This book has helped me to appreciate the series on a much deeper level. Davies doesn't give a biography of Brett; rather, this is a tightly focused look at Brett's involvement with the TV show. Davies discusses each episode of the show, even describing individual scenes. He traces input from executives, producers, directors, screenwriters, and actors; he compares the show's plots to the source material; and he demonstrates trends over time as the show ran year after year. Brett's brilliance as an actor shines through, both in these pages and on the screen. This book is a celebration—of Sherlock, of show more Brett, of Doyle. It's a reminder of why we loved the series. It captures the heartache of the series' end and of Brett's illness. It showed me, all over again, the brilliance and daring of an amazing actor. show less

A brilliant, detailed, yet concise synopsis. It spares little in the dissects of the strengths of the series, & Jeremy Brett. Readable, without being some fanboys homage. Very readable. Should be considered essential reading for those with an interest in Sherlock Holmes, British TV or those with an interest in mental illness.

With some revisions from the first edition, still an essential book for fans of Jeremy Brett.

A must-read for all shelockians