The Hound of the Baskervilles (1972)

The Hound of the Baskervilles Poster

Holmes and Dr. Watson tackle the case of a curse on the Baskerville bloodline in this ABC Movie of the Week adaptation.

Introduction
"The Hound of the Baskervilles" from 1972 is an imprint of the long-beloved Sherlock Holmes mystery universe, based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's traditional book of the same name. Directed by Barry Crane, this tv motion picture adaptation follows the iconic investigator Sherlock Holmes and his faithful buddy Dr. John Watson as they decipher the mysteries surrounding the Baskerville family, haunted by a famous phantom hound in the English moors.

Plot Summary
The story is set in the spooky and fog-laden moors of Baskerville Hall, where a supposed curse has been towering above the family for generations. According to the legend, a huge spectral hound is responsible for the death of many Baskerville heirs. After the latest victim, Sir Charles Baskerville, is found dead with an expression of scary on his face, Dr. Mortimer, a friend to the Baskervilles, seeks Sherlock Holmes' know-how fearing for the life of the next in line, Sir Henry Baskerville.

Sherlock Holmes, played by Stewart Granger, and Dr. John Watson, portrayed by Bernard Fox, enter the scene with their inimitable brand of investigative expertise. While Holmes sends out Watson to Baskerville Hall to protect Sir Henry and gather hints, he himself conducts hidden inquiries in London, rotating between his role as an investigator and a master of disguise.

Unfolding of the Mystery
As Dr. Watson arrives at the dismal estate, he meets a roster of appealing characters, consisting of the enigmatic Stapleton and his sis Beryl, who dwell close by. The stress increases as Sir Henry starts to experience upsetting incidents, and Watson notices a shadowy figure hiding in the moors. Regardless of Watson's vigilance, the threat of the supernatural hound looms bigger, sowing fear amongst the regional people and the estate's occupants.

Back in London, Holmes's parallel investigation unwinds the threads of a convoluted plot. His findings unveil a connection between the hound legend and a web of deceit and greed covering the Baskerville estate. His questions suggest that the hound is not a mere ghost story, but rather a tool in an ominous strategy to declare the household fortune.

Climactic Revelation
The climax of the story arrives as Holmes and Watson regroup to face the wicked scheme head-on. They set a trap to reveal the true nature of the hound and uncover the identity of the person behind menstruation. In a significant and suspenseful showdown out on the moors, they deal with the threat that has been torturing Sir Henry.

Through cunning and courage, Holmes and Watson manage to expose the hound for what it genuinely is-- an experienced animal covered in phosphorus to give it a transcendent appearance. The mastermind of the plot turns out to be Stapleton, a relative of the Baskervilles who had actually wanted to claim the family fortune by removing Sir Henry.

Conclusion
The 1972 adjustment concludes with the typical Sherlock Holmes style, showcasing the power of logical thought and deductive thinking over superstition and fear. While the production values and execution of the film may vary from more modern interpretations, the film remains an earnest addition to the Holmes filmography, portraying the characters and Gothic atmosphere that fans of the detective genre appreciate.

This rendition of "The Hound of the Baskervilles" prospers on its awesome story and keeps an atmosphere of secret throughout. It is a testament to the long-lasting appeal of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's development and a celebration of the Sherlock Holmes tradition, withstanding as one of the most captivating detective stories of all time.

Top Cast

  • Stewart Granger (small)
    Stewart Granger
    Sherlock Holmes
  • Bernard Fox (small)
    Bernard Fox
    Dr. Watson
  • William Shatner (small)
    William Shatner
    George Stapleton
  • Anthony Zerbe (small)
    Anthony Zerbe
    Dr. John Mortimer
  • Sally Ann Howes (small)
    Sally Ann Howes
    Laura Frankland
  • Jane Merrow (small)
    Jane Merrow
    Beryl Stapleton
  • Ian Ireland
    Sir Henry Baskerville
  • John Williams (small)
    John Williams
    Arthur Frankland
  • Alan Caillou
    Insp. Lestrade
  • Brendan Dillon (small)
    Brendan Dillon
    Barrymore
  • Arline Anderson
    Eliza Barrymore