Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly star in a scene from the movie "Holmes & Watson." The Catholic News Service classification is L -- limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. (CNS/Sony Pictures)

By Catholic News Service

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective and his doctor sidekick are given a comedic makeover in this mindless, raucous, and exceedingly vulgar film, written and directed by Etan Cohen.

Sherlock Holmes (Will Farrell) is feted on his birthday by Queen Victoria (Pam Ferris) at Buckingham Palace. A dead body tumbles out of the enormous cake, bearing an ominous note from Holmes’ arch enemy, Professor James Moriarty (Ralph Fiennes), threatening the monarch’s life. With his trusty sidekick, Dr. John Watson (John C. Reilly), at his side, Holmes begins the search for clues.

Recurring crude sexual language and bathroom humor, including references to masturbation, drug references, comic violence, and occasional rough and crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is L — limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Click here for full reviews of this and other current movies by Catholic News Service.