After the success of the first two films, Enola Holmes 3 returns with bigger stakes and a darker, more mature story. Set a few years later, the film opens with Enola (Millie Bobby Brown) preparing to marry Lord Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge) in Malta while struggling with the idea of giving up her independence and detective agency. Before the wedding can take place, Sherlock Holmes (Henry Cavill) is kidnapped, pulling Enola into a dangerous conspiracy involving political intrigue, anti-reformist forces and the darker side of the British Empire. Joined by Dr. John Watson (Himesh Patel) and later Tewkesbury, she follows a trail of clues stretching from London to the Mediterranean.
The film’s biggest strength is its decision to make Sherlock the one who needs saving, allowing Enola to take complete charge of the story. Millie Bobby Brown once again carries the franchise with confidence, balancing Enola’s sharp wit with growing emotional depth. Her chemistry with Louis Partridge remains one of the trilogy’s highlights, adding warmth without overshadowing the central mystery. Director Philip Barantini also gives the film a richer visual style that complements its more serious themes.
However, the mystery itself never reaches the same level as the previous films. The plot gets buried under political exposition, making the investigation feel more complicated than engaging. The biggest disappointment is Moriarty (Sharon Duncan-Brewster). Despite being built up as the mastermind behind everything, the character lacks the intelligence, menace and impact expected from one of literature’s greatest villains, leaving the climax surprisingly underwhelming.
The film also overuses Enola’s trademark fourth wall breaks, which repeatedly interrupt the tension instead of adding charm. Ironically, while the relationships are stronger than ever, the detective case is the weakest of the trilogy, missing the clever twists and satisfying payoff that made the earlier films so enjoyable.
Even so, Enola Holmes 3 remains an entertaining watch thanks to its strong performances, engaging lead pair and polished production values. It may not deliver the franchise’s best mystery, but it is still a worthwhile watch for Netflix subscribers and fans of the franchise.
Movie: Enola Holmes 3
Directed by: Philip Barantini
Featuring: Millie Bobby Brown, Louis Partridge, Henry Cavill, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, Himesh Patel, Helena Bonham Carter, Jason Watkins, Hattie Morahan, Joe Azzopardi, Susan Wokoma
Screenplay by: Jack Thorne
Based on: The Enola Holmes Mysteries by Nancy Springer
Streaming on: Netflix
Release Date: July 1, 2026
Run Time: 1hr 48mins
Enola Holmes 3
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