I love Sherlock.
I love the first season because it is fast-paced and quirky.
I love the second season because it focuses on John and Sherlock's unique friendship.
I love the third season because Sherlock is human, so human, and you just want to hug him. Even knowing that he'll bite off one's head for it.
I had no doubt when series three was announced that it would be anything but good. With series four, I have concerns. Very much.
There have been enough discussions and questions raised concerning John's decision, Mary's inexcusable actions, and Sherlock's deed. I am not going into that. No point. Done is done. Theorizing is fun, but it must be kept from the "hard facts."
Season three brings forth two major issues that might prove dangerous to season four:
Mary and her plus one. And Jim.
Facts, no theorizing, no accusations: John is settled with Mary and that kid. Should it be born, John will be a father. I wonder how many people want John to run around with Sherlock and neglect his child. As a good father, he should not risk his life when he has got a family to think of. I, for one, do not want to see such an immoral man. And John's not like that. The entire family setting could prove fatal for the idea of Sherlock.
Jim. Some already dislike his return, others want to see something clever. And yes. Season four must have a clever twist. The fans are not going to accept anything but that. The concept of fake deaths has been used twice, and a third time will not gain any applause.
Two major issues nobody can refute.
And that's why I worry for season four. Unless Mary is dealt with at the beginning, I fear people will not accept her further meddling. They don't want her off-screen either. Seasoun four did not resolve the issue around her, and if season four ignores it, this could destroy Sherlock. Reintroducing Jim as a villain will not work. Introducing a brother, sister, fellow villain needs to be clever. The writers have proven over and over that they can do it. On the other hand, they have set the stakes rather high with these two issues. I just hope they know what they are doing.
And that's why I wish for two things. With all my heart:
Get rid of Mary before it's too late and the family theme kills the series.
Be clever about the return message.
