Netflix’s Enola Holmes franchise, a vibrant reimagining of the Sherlock Holmes universe, has captured the hearts of millions with its blend of youthful exuberance, sharp detective work, and feminist undertones. The announcement that Enola Holmes 3 is now in production has sent waves of excitement through its global fanbase, with Millie Bobby Brown returning as the spirited teen sleuth and Henry Cavill reprising his role as the iconic Sherlock Holmes. Directed by Philip Barantini, known for his intense, single-take masterpieces like Adolescence and Boiling Point, the third installment promises a darker, more complex adventure set in the exotic locale of Malta. With a stellar cast, a compelling logline, and behind-the-scenes glimpses teasing a cinematic “one-er,” Enola Holmes 3 is shaping up to be the franchise’s most ambitious chapter yet. This article dives into the production details, cast, plot speculations, and the cultural significance of this eagerly awaited sequel.

A Franchise Rooted in Nancy Springer’s Vision

The Enola Holmes series, based on Nancy Springer’s The Enola Holmes Mysteries, offers a fresh perspective on the Sherlock Holmes legacy by centering on Enola, the teenage sister of Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes. Springer’s novels, beginning with The Case of the Missing Marquess, introduced a fiercely independent protagonist who navigates Victorian England with intelligence and defiance. The first film, released in 2020, closely followed the novel’s plot, earning critical acclaim and 76 million household views in its first 28 days on Netflix. Enola Holmes 2 (2022) took a bolder approach, weaving historical events like the 1888 matchgirls’ strike into an original story, and topped Netflix’s charts in 93 countries with over 68 million hours streamed.

The franchise’s success lies in its ability to balance period drama, adventure, and humor while championing a young female detective in a male-dominated era. Millie Bobby Brown’s portrayal of Enola, complete with fourth-wall-breaking asides, has been a standout, earning praise for its charm and authenticity. Her chemistry with Henry Cavill’s Sherlock, a warmer take on the legendary detective, adds emotional depth, while the ensemble cast, including Helena Bonham Carter as Eudoria Holmes, brings richness to the narrative. As Enola Holmes 3 enters production, the anticipation is palpable, fueled by Netflix’s strategic teases and the promise of a new directorial vision.

Production Begins: A New Director Takes the Helm

On April 22, 2025, Netflix announced that Enola Holmes 3 had officially begun production, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. Filming is underway in the UK, primarily at Netflix’s Shepperton Studios, with additional shoots planned in Malta to bring an international flair to the story. The production, expected to span 12 weeks and wrap in July 2025, is helmed by Philip Barantini, a director celebrated for his work on Band of Brothers, Chernobyl, and Netflix’s Boiling Point. Barantini replaces Harry Bradbeer, who directed the first two films, bringing a fresh perspective that promises a darker, more mature tone, as reported by Deadline in November 2024.

Barantini’s reputation for intense, immersive storytelling, particularly his mastery of the “one-er” (a single, unbroken shot), has fans buzzing with excitement. A behind-the-scenes video released on the first day of production showcased a dynamic one-er featuring Millie Bobby Brown and Louis Partridge, who plays Viscount Tewkesbury. The clip, narrated by cinematographer Matt Lewis—another Boiling Point alum—offers a glimpse of the film’s kinetic energy, with Lewis’ voice heard at the end, hinting at the technical ambition behind the project. Lewis, known for his work on Malpractice and The Responder, brings his expertise to create visually striking sequences that complement Barantini’s vision.

The screenplay, penned by Jack Thorne, who wrote both previous films, draws inspiration from Springer’s novels while crafting an original story. Thorne’s involvement ensures continuity in tone and character development, while his collaboration with Barantini, as seen in Adolescence, suggests a bold evolution for the franchise. Produced by Legendary Entertainment and Brown’s PCMA Productions, with Mary Parent, Alex Garcia, Ali Mendes, and Brown herself as producers, the film is backed by a powerhouse team. Executive producers include Jake Bongiovi, Isobel Richards, Joshua Grode, and Michael Dreyer.

The Plot: A Tangled Case in Malta

The official logline for Enola Holmes 3 sets the stage for an ambitious adventure: “Adventure chases detective Enola Holmes to Malta, where personal and professional dreams collide on a case more tangled and treacherous than any she has faced before.” This synopsis, shared by Netflix, hints at a narrative that takes Enola beyond the familiar streets of London to the sun-drenched island of Malta, a setting ripe with political intrigue and cultural richness. The phrase “nest of vipers” used in promotional materials suggests a complex web of deceit, possibly involving high-stakes espionage or a conspiracy that tests Enola’s skills as a detective.

The second film’s conclusion provides clues about the third installment’s direction. After resolving a factory poisoning conspiracy, Enola established her own detective agency in London, while Sherlock welcomed Dr. John Watson as his new roommate at 221B Baker Street. The escape of Moriarty, played by Sharon Duncan-Brewster, sets the stage for a potential showdown, positioning her as a formidable antagonist. While the films have diverged from Springer’s novels, elements from the third book, The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets, which involves Dr. Watson’s disappearance and cryptic death-symbolizing flowers, may influence the plot. Fans speculate that Enola and Sherlock might team up to rescue Watson or confront Moriarty, navigating a case that intertwines personal stakes—such as Enola’s budding romance with Tewkesbury—with professional challenges.

The Malta setting adds a fresh dimension, promising vibrant visuals and a departure from the Victorian gloom of the previous films. The logline’s mention of “personal and professional dreams” suggests a deeper exploration of Enola’s growth, possibly balancing her detective career with her feelings for Tewkesbury or her complex relationship with her family. Barantini’s darker tone, likened to Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, indicates a narrative that matures alongside its protagonist, appealing to both longtime fans and an older audience.

The Returning Cast: A Stellar Ensemble

Enola Holmes 3 boasts a powerhouse cast, with Millie Bobby Brown leading as Enola Holmes. Brown, who also serves as a producer, brings her signature charisma and vulnerability to the role, cementing Enola as a feminist icon. In a 2022 Collider interview, she expressed her passion for the character, saying, “Enola holds a special place in my heart—she’s strong, fearless, intelligent, and brave.” Her dual role as star and producer underscores her growing influence in the industry, following her $10 million payday for Enola Holmes 2, a record for an actor under 20 at the time.

Henry Cavill returns as Sherlock Holmes, dispelling earlier rumors of scheduling conflicts. His portrayal, which blends gravitas with warmth, has redefined the detective for a new generation. Fans are eager to see his dynamic with Himesh Patel’s Dr. John Watson, introduced in the second film’s post-credits scene, and his potential confrontation with Moriarty. Cavill’s commitment to the role, despite a busy slate including Voltron and a Highlander reboot, highlights his investment in the franchise.

Helena Bonham Carter reprises her role as Eudoria Holmes, the radical matriarch whose influence continues to shape Enola’s journey. Louis Partridge returns as Viscount Tewkesbury, Enola’s love interest, with the logline hinting at a deeper exploration of their romance. Himesh Patel’s Dr. John Watson and Sharon Duncan-Brewster’s Moriarty add intrigue, with the latter poised to be a central antagonist. Susan Wokoma and Adeel Akhtar are also set to return as Edith and Inspector Lestrade, respectively, while new additions like Bern Collaço as an Officer and Mike Parish as Viscount Chelmsford expand the ensemble. The status of Sam Claflin’s Mycroft Holmes remains unconfirmed, leaving fans curious about his potential return.

Behind-the-Scenes Buzz: The One-Er Tease

The production kickoff was accompanied by a thrilling behind-the-scenes video showcasing a “one-er,” a single-take sequence featuring Brown and Partridge. Directed by Barantini and shot by cinematographer Matt Lewis, the clip highlights the film’s technical ambition, with Lewis’ voice audible at the end, adding a personal touch. The one-er, a hallmark of Barantini’s style as seen in Boiling Point, suggests a dynamic, immersive approach to storytelling that could elevate key action or emotional scenes. Fans on social media, particularly Instagram and X, have reacted with fervor, with comments like “That one-er is giving me chills!” and “Millie and Louis in Malta? I’m ready!” The video, shared by Netflix’s Tudum and outlets like The Hollywood News, has amplified anticipation for the film’s visual style.

Fan Reactions and Social Media Frenzy

The announcement of Enola Holmes 3’s production start has ignited a social media firestorm. Millie Bobby Brown’s Instagram post, captioned “case closed” upon wrapping, drew thousands of likes and comments, with Netflix’s playful “omgomgomg” response mirroring the fandom’s excitement. On X, posts from accounts like @DiscussingFilm and @cavill_40k celebrated Cavill’s return, with fans writing, “Henry Cavill as Sherlock again? I’m screaming!” and “Enola Holmes 3 in Malta with a darker tone? Take my money!” The one-er teaser has sparked discussions about Barantini’s directorial approach, with many comparing it to the cinematic shift in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. The hashtag #EnolaHolmes3 trended briefly, reflecting the global anticipation for the film.

Netflix’s Strategy: Expanding a Hit Franchise

Netflix’s investment in Enola Holmes 3 underscores its confidence in the franchise’s commercial and critical success. The first film’s 189.90 million hours watched and the sequel’s chart-topping performance demonstrate its global appeal. Former Netflix film head Scott Stuber, in a 2022 Collider interview, highlighted the “elastic” nature of the Holmes IP, expressing enthusiasm for expanding Enola’s story. The decision to bring in Barantini, whose Adolescence smashed viewing records, signals Netflix’s ambition to elevate the franchise while retaining its core audience. The Malta shoot, reported by Lovin Malta, also positions the island as a key player in global film production, following its use in projects like Gladiator and Jurassic World Dominion.

Release Date Speculation

While Netflix has not announced an official release date, the production timeline offers clues. Filming, which began in April 2025 and is set to wrap in July, will be followed by post-production, likely extending into late 2025 due to the film’s complex visuals and international settings. Based on the 18-month gap between production and release for Enola Holmes 2, a premiere in Spring or Summer 2026 is plausible, with March to June being a likely window. Some sources, like Superhero Hype, suggest a 2026 release, aligning with Netflix’s packed 2025 slate. Fans eagerly await a trailer or further updates, with Tudum promising more details soon.

Cultural Impact and Expectations

The Enola Holmes series has resonated with audiences for its empowering portrayal of a young female detective challenging Victorian norms. Enola’s blend of intelligence, resilience, and humor has made her a role model, earning the first film a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score. The franchise’s ability to weave historical context with modern themes has broadened its appeal, while Cavill’s Sherlock and Brown’s Enola have redefined the Holmes legacy for a new generation. The third film’s darker tone and international setting are expected to deepen this impact, appealing to both young viewers and older audiences drawn to Barantini’s intense style.

Fans anticipate a balance of thrilling mysteries, emotional depth, and the franchise’s signature humor. The Malta setting, combined with the potential Moriarty showdown and Enola’s evolving romance with Tewkesbury, promises a fresh yet familiar adventure. Barantini’s one-er technique and Lewis’ cinematography could deliver standout sequences, while Thorne’s screenplay ensures character-driven storytelling. The ensemble cast, led by Brown and Cavill, is poised to elevate the narrative, making Enola Holmes 3 a cultural event.

Conclusion

As Enola Holmes 3 begins production, the return of Millie Bobby Brown and Henry Cavill, under Philip Barantini’s bold direction, sets the stage for a thrilling new chapter. The Malta setting, darker tone, and behind-the-scenes one-er tease promise a cinematic experience that pushes the franchise’s boundaries while honoring its roots. With a stellar cast, a complex mystery, and a passionate fanbase, Enola Holmes 3 is poised to captivate audiences in 2026. As Enola tackles her most treacherous case yet, the Holmes siblings’ journey continues to redefine detective storytelling, cementing their place in Netflix’s pantheon of iconic characters.