The character development was true to Doyle's books. Only Robert Downey Jr could have played Holmes. Jude Law's Watson completed the near-perfect pairing. The multiple fight scenes felt gratuitous and somewhat superficial. The special effects enhanced the story.
Not usually drawn to sports-centered stories, but Invictus was the exception. This is a truly an inspirational story where human forgiveness and redemption serve as cornerstones.
Morgan Freeman was extraordinary as Mandela the politician and Mandela the man.
Matt Damon's understated performance lent believability to the storyline.