How to watch
Sherlock Holmes Movie Watch Order in the correct order
How to watch the Sherlock Holmes movies in order
Last updated: September 14 2026
Written by: ChronoAlice
Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes films reimagine the great detective as an action-packed adventurer played by Robert Downey Jr. With a third film long in the works, here's how to watch the series so far.
Guy Ritchie's kinetic take on Sherlock Holmes stars Robert Downey Jr. as the eccentric detective and Jude Law as a rugged Dr. Watson. Blending Victorian atmosphere with slow-motion fights and witty banter, the films pit Holmes against schemes that threaten all of Europe.
π Release Order
Release order follows Holmes and Watson from their first big-screen case to the confrontation with Moriarty.
- Sherlock Holmes (2009)
- Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
The two films are a direct continuation, so the timeline is straightforward.
π Story Chronology
Story chronology matches release order, with A Game of Shadows picking up after the first film.
- Sherlock Holmes (2009)
- Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
Which Order Should You Choose?
There's only one sensible way to watch: start with 2009's Sherlock Holmes, then continue to A Game of Shadows. The sequel deepens the rivalry with Professor Moriarty and pays off threads planted in the first film, including Holmes's bond with Watson and his fascination with Rachel McAdams's Irene Adler. A long-awaited third installment has been announced after years in development, so now is a great time to revisit these two before the trilogy is complete.
π Related Guides
Did we miss anything? Let us know and we'll keep this guide up to date!