'Enola Holmes 3': Is Another Mystery Afoot?

For lifelong fans of the Sherlock Holmes franchise, it was exhilarating when the first Enola Holmes movie hit the screens in 2020. Directed by Harry Bradbeer and based on the book series by Nancy Springer, the film introduced us to the charming and witty Enola Holmes, the younger sister of the renowned detective Sherlock Holmes.

The talented Millie Bobby Brown plays Enola, who keeps winning the hearts of adventure and mystery lovers. Plus, the setting and plot suggest a time in the world when people like Enola were confined to more traditional norms, and watching her forge her own path and defying stereotype can only get better with the third film. Especially since the movie’s success birthed a sequel, Enola Holmes 2, which premiered in 2022 and continues to showcase Enola’s investigative prowess and relentless pursuit of justice. So, will this third film be asking too much of this already spectacular story? Or should viewers expect a brand new, authentic adventure with a potential Enola Holmes 3 release?

What Is the ‘Enola Holmes’ Franchise About?

Enola (Millie Bobby Brown) with Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge) in Enola Holmes 2

Image Credit: Netflix

Set in the late 19th century, the Enola Holmes plot follows the adventures of the young adventurer as she navigates the social and political landscape of Victorian England. She’s solving mysteries and challenging the societal norms that seek to limit the average young girl’s potential. The first movie introduces us to the surprising disappearance of Mrs. Holmes (Helena Bonham Carter). There’s also Enola’s strained relationship with her older brothers Sherlock (Henry Cavill) and Mycroft (Sam Claflin). The sequel expands Enola’s world, as she embarks on a new case that pits her against a powerful adversary and forces her to confront personal insecurities and self-doubt.

The ‘Enola Holmes’ Universe Delivers a Modern Take on a Historical Piece

It’s refreshing to see how the production team is adamant about avoiding a Victorian London setting that heavily relies on dull aesthetics. Their tonic concept involves using bright themes in various set-ups to maintain a consistent color scheme. This theme was particularly evident in the portrayal of women and their involvement with the suffragettes in the East End. This is especially noticeable in the tea shop and also in the Holmes manor. A lot of detail is put in by the team to ensure the cinematography presents as warm and enjoyable. Fans can only hope to see even more vibrance with Enola Homes 3.

What Would the Third Movie Be About?

Image Credit: Netflix

While the details of the potential Enola Holmes 3 plot remain under wraps, we can speculate on the direction the story might take based on the events of the previous movies. One possibility is that Enola will be solving another high-profile case that pits her against an obviously strong antagonist. No plot synopsis or logline has been released yet, however, it is expected that the movie will be loosely based on Springer’s third graphic novel, The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets, which investigates the disappearance of John Watson.

This plot is not totally out of the question as Himesh Patel appeared as Dr. John Watson in the second movie’s post-credits scene. With that being said, Enola Holmes 2 didn’t adapt any of Springer’s novels directly. Rather, it drew some inspiration from real events — specifically the 1888 matchgirls’ strike. The event saw dozens of women and girls stage a groundbreaking walkout at a factory in east London. Who knows, maybe the third installment may take a similar route.

Given the character’s growth over the course of the first two movies, it’s likely that the third film will explore Enola’s evolving relationships with her brothers. We also know her continued quest for independence and self-discovery will come in play. Additionally, the return of key supporting characters, such as Edith (Susan Wokoma) and Lord Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge), would add depth and familiarity to the narrative.

Which Cast Members Can We Expect to Return?

Image Credit: Netflix

It’s safe to assume that Brown will reprise her role, while Cavill and Claflin could likely as Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes, respectively. The continuous involvement of Bonham Carter as Eudoria Holmes would also be a lovely addition. Her character’s mysterious disappearance and reappearance have been central to the series’ overarching storyline. There’s also Patridge who plays the part of Lord Tewkesbury. His close alliance and budding relationship with Enola will probably continue in the third movie.

Wokoma may also reprise her role as Edith, as she’s a key supporting character in the movie and one of Enola’s major mentors. Then there’s Himesh Patel who plays Dr. John Watson. His character is already an important one in the Sherlock Holmes universe. While his role is limited in the second part, there’s hope that the third movie will expand on his character. Other cast members we hope to see in Enola Holmes 3 are Adeel Akhtar who plays Lestrade, Sharon Duncan-Brewster who plays Moriaty, and Burn Gorman as Linthorn.

When Will ‘Enola Holmes 3’ Be Released?

The anticipation for the next chapter in Enola’s adventures remains high among the franchise’s fanbase. Things are still being kept a little too quiet. Many suspect the release of Enola Holmes 3 will fall towards the end of 2025 with production set to start early in the year. While it’s too soon to tell, be certain we’ll be seated when the time comes.