30 Days Relationship Challenge #10

[katikat]

John Watson & Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock Holmes movies

The relationship between Sherlock Holmes and John Watson has always been fascinating. But in this case, it's even more so. A huge part of it is the casting. Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law have amazing chemistry and they literally radiate the pleasure they take from each other's company. Just watch some of their interviews, you'll see just how much they enjoy themselves. And they're not afraid to push the boundaries with their characters, to more than just hint at a deeper relationship between Holmes and Watson.

Because this Holmes and Watson's relationship is definitely not platonic, or better said, they're not straight. Yes, Holmes has Irene and Watson has Mary but... But! If their story took place in a different time, would Watson have married Mary? Oh, I don't doubt that he loves her but is his love for her stronger than his devotion to Holmes? Or does their marriage, at least partially, present a way to stay with Holmes without jeopardizing his position?

I mean, just watch the 2nd movie: He's on his way to his honeymoon but when Holmes appears, he runs away with him to France - not even knowing where Mary disappeared to, just accepting Holmes' explanation that she's safe with Mycroft. Is this the behavior of a man deeply in love with his wife? Holmes throws Mary out of the train and Watson gets angry, for a bit, but when Holmes dies on him - twice, too! - it's like his world has ended.

And Holmes. Everything Holmes does has two goals: a) to keep Watson with him and b) to protect Watson at any cost. Especially in the 2nd movie it's really obvious. Holmes in ST:AGoS breaks you heart. The wedding scene... the train scene in France... Reichenbach... This is not a man protecting a friend. I think it's the subtle way in which RDJ plays the part, his Holmes' devotion to Watson is... staggering.

So yeah, if these films were set in the 21st century, in a time when homosexuality wasn't illegal in Britain anymore, I do honestly think that they would've become a couple. They do love their female counterparts but when you compare those feelings to what they feel for each other... It's wonderful. And terribly sad at the same time.