HOLLYWOOD – The long-anticipated third instalment of the Robert Downey Jr. Sherlock Holmes film series is being considered for a drastic change in setting, moving the traditional British detective story to the United States. Producer Susan Downey, who is the wife of the film’s star, revealed the creative team is exploring the shift to make the next film unique.
Exploring a New Setting
Speaking to Collider, Susan Downey said the production team has been discussing a “slightly different direction” for the sequel, which would break from the established setting of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s original stories and the first two films.
“It’s always been kind of set in America, and whether that’s a good idea or not, I’m not sure, but I love it,” Downey stated. This proposed geographical leap from London would fundamentally alter the aesthetic and context of the franchise, which pairs Downey Jr.’s Holmes with Jude Law’s Dr. Watson.
Years of Delays and High Standards
The project has faced numerous delays since the last film, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, was released in 2011. Susan Downey cited scheduling conflicts—particularly with Law—and the Covid-19 pandemic as primary roadblocks.
“We came pretty close at one point, and I think I am grateful that we didn’t make that version of it,” she recalled.
Despite the setbacks, Downey emphasized that the creative ambition remains high, a standard set by the lead actor himself. “The bar is really high, or at least Robert has set the bar really high, so I don’t know,” she said, expressing a strong personal desire to complete the trilogy: “I would love to bring a third Sherlock to the world. I really would. And we’ve been playing with it for a long time.”
