The Final Problem Review: Based on Arturo Pérez-Reverte’s 2023 novel El problema final, Netflix’s newest whodunit comes with an intriguing Sherlock Holmes connection. Set in 1959, the series showcases a retired actor famous for playing Sherlock Holmes trying to solve a series of murders on a small islet off the coast of Mallorca. Twists, turns, and bodies keep plaguing the investigation as he also faces several hurdles and objections from the other guests.
The story focuses on more than just a locked-room mystery and highlights themes surrounding performance, deduction and the fascination of fictional detectives.
The cast includes José Coronado, María Valverde, Martiño Rivas, Gonzalo de Castro, Pepón Nieto, Cristina Kovani, José Condessa, Daniel Holguín, Michael Stobbe, and Maribel Verdú, and it is directed by Félix Viscarret.
The Final Problem Review
A Murder Mystery With a Sherlock Holmes Twist
At the heart of this series is Basil, the retired actor who dons the detective’s hat because he once played Sherlock Holmes on screen. The contrast and similarities between their personalities and the way Basil goes around solving the mystery through deduction make for an interesting watch. The series highlights how even the most ordinary people can become perceptive through fictional stories. Basil’s keen sense of perception comes partly from his years of playing the famed detective.
Basil isn’t Holmes, we realise that quite easily throughout the runtime, but there are fragments of Holmes in his character that make him fascinating. The series leans into these aspects and makes it as much about Basil as it is about the murders since he is the one who takes up this unlikely duty to solve a mysterious case. His investigation is clearly shaped by the experience of having played Holmes, and it makes for quite a playful connection between real and reel.
The Isolated Hotel Creates the Right Atmosphere
As with any whodunit, The Final Problem places its mystery on an islet from which escape is impossible. It makes for an obvious yet entertaining setting that has become the go-to choice in stories like these. Either way, the beautiful location does most of the heavy lifting and adds to the charisma of the mystery.
The 1959 setting also adds to the charm, nostalgia and tension, as it’s impossible for modern facilities to help the guests to save themselves or unearth the culprit. The story, thus, focuses on conversations, deductions and observations. This makes the story more grounded and effective, adding to the confusion and mystery.
The Final Problem is a Classic Mystery
At 4 episodes, it’s simple and effective and doesn’t try to be overly complicated. It’s a glamorous watch, yet there’s not a lot of spectacle. Viewers will enjoy the costumes and setting that make it feel like a traditional European mystery. However, if you’re looking for a dark and dreary watch, this one won’t be for you since the series has an oddly light and lively feel to it, in the midst of all the murders! Even if it has all the hallmarks of a murder mystery, complete with a rather depressing explanation to it all, the overall vibe of the series does not go towards gloomy intensity. It’s thus enjoyable in a more light-hearted way.
Jose Coronado Leads a Strong Ensemble
While Coronado gives an engaging performance, it’s the ensemble that wins in this series. All the actors capture the essence of their characters and the setting with ease, as a result of which viewers will find themselves hooked to the screen. While some of the characters aren’t as memorable, the actors do a stellar job with them regardless. Moreover, the principal characters are provided good depth that makes them stand out. Their backstories are engaging and emotionally poignant, to the point that viewers might find themselves sympathising somewhere with the perpetrator as well!
Final Verdict
In the end, The Final Problem is a simple whodunit mystery that is enjoyable. If you want something twisted but with less stakes and a lively atmosphere, this one’s a great choice if you want to stay away from the gloom and doom of contemporary thrillers. Its measured pacing, stylised dialogue and interesting ending explanation make for a complete experience. The Holmes inspiration is just an added bonus.
The Final Problem is streaming on Netflix. Let us know your thoughts about the whodunit in the comments below!
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