The Enola Holmes franchise has become a cornerstone of Netflix’s original film slate, blending youthful exuberance, sharp detective work, and a feminist reimagining of the Sherlock Holmes universe. With the announcement that Enola Holmes 3 is in production, fans are buzzing with excitement, particularly over the return of Henry Cavill as Sherlock Holmes and Millie Bobby Brown as the titular teen sleuth, Enola. The third installment, now filming in the UK with additional shoots in Malta, promises a darker, more intricate mystery that pushes the boundaries of the series. This article explores the significance of Cavill’s return, the evolving narrative of Enola Holmes 3, the star-studded cast, production details, fan reactions, and the broader impact of this beloved franchise.

The Rise of Enola Holmes: A Global Phenomenon

Since its debut in 2020, Enola Holmes has captivated audiences with its fresh take on the Sherlock Holmes legacy. Based on Nancy Springer’s The Enola Holmes Mysteries, the series follows Enola, the teenage sister of Sherlock and Mycroft Holmes, as she navigates Victorian England, solving mysteries with wit and independence. The first film, adapted from The Case of the Missing Marquess, was a pandemic-era hit, amassing 76 million household views in its first 28 days, according to Netflix. Its sequel, Enola Holmes 2 (2022), built on this success, debuting at number one in 93 countries with over 68 million hours streamed. The films’ blend of period drama, humor, and feminist themes, coupled with Millie Bobby Brown’s magnetic performance, has made the franchise a cultural touchstone.

Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Sherlock Holmes has been a standout, offering a warmer, more approachable take on the iconic detective compared to traditional depictions. His chemistry with Brown’s Enola has been a highlight, grounding the series in a sibling dynamic that balances rivalry and affection. As Enola Holmes 3 enters production, Cavill’s return is a major draw, especially after his departure from other high-profile roles in The Witcher and the DC Universe. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how his Sherlock evolves in this new chapter.

Enola Holmes 3: Production Kicks Off with a New Vision

Netflix officially announced the start of Enola Holmes 3 production in April 2025, with filming taking place primarily in the UK at Shepperton Studios, alongside location shoots in Malta. The production, which wrapped in July 2025, marks a significant milestone for the franchise. Unlike the first two films, directed by Harry Bradbeer (Fleabag, Killing Eve), the third installment is helmed by Philip Barantini, known for his intense, character-driven work on Boiling Point and Adolescence. Barantini’s involvement, reported by Deadline in November 2024, signals a shift toward a darker, more mature tone, with the director citing Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as an inspiration for its blend of youthful adventure and complex themes.

The script, penned by Jack Thorne, who wrote both previous films, draws loosely from Springer’s The Enola Holmes Mysteries while introducing an original story. The official logline teases: “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 international setting, a departure from the London-centric narratives of the earlier films, promises political intrigue, cultural richness, and high-stakes mystery. The production, spanning 12 weeks, involved a collaboration between Legendary Entertainment and Brown’s PCMA Productions, with Mary Parent, Alex Garcia, Ali Mendes, and Brown herself as producers.

Henry Cavill’s Sherlock: A Bigger Role?

Cavill’s return as Sherlock Holmes is a focal point of excitement for Enola Holmes 3. While Enola has been the heart of the series, Sherlock’s role has grown from a supporting figure in the first film to a more integral part of the narrative in the sequel. Fans speculate that the third film will give Cavill a larger spotlight, potentially exploring his dynamic with Dr. John Watson (Himesh Patel) and his nemesis, Moriarty (Sharon Duncan-Brewster). The post-credits scene of Enola Holmes 2 introduced Watson, setting up the classic Sherlock-Watson partnership, while Moriarty’s prison escape hinted at a looming confrontation.

Cavill, who has expressed enthusiasm for the role, brings a unique blend of gravitas and charm to Sherlock. In a 2022 interview with Collider, he noted similarities between his Enola Holmes role and Man of Steel, citing the challenge of portraying a legendary character with fresh nuance. His commitment to the franchise, despite a busy schedule that includes Amazon’s Voltron, a Highlander reboot, and a Warhammer project, underscores his dedication. Reports suggest that Cavill’s Sherlock may take center stage in key moments, potentially collaborating closely with Enola to tackle the Malta mystery.

Millie Bobby Brown: The Heart of the Franchise

Millie Bobby Brown, both star and co-producer, remains the driving force behind Enola Holmes 3. Her portrayal of Enola, a spirited detective who breaks the fourth wall and defies Victorian gender norms, has earned critical acclaim. In a 2021 statement, Brown expressed her deep connection to the character: “Enola holds a special place in my heart—she’s strong, fearless, intelligent, and brave.” Her dual role as producer through PCMA Productions, alongside her sister Paige Brown, reflects her growing influence in Hollywood. Brown’s reported $10 million salary for Enola Holmes 2 marked a milestone as the highest upfront salary for an actor under 20 at the time.

In Enola Holmes 3, Enola’s journey takes her to Malta, where she faces her most complex case yet. The logline hints at a collision of personal and professional dreams, suggesting a deeper exploration of her relationship with Viscount Tewkesbury (Louis Partridge) and her evolving identity as a detective. The second film’s ending, with Enola opening her own detective agency, sets the stage for her to take on greater challenges, potentially clashing with Moriarty or navigating familial tensions with Sherlock and their mother, Eudoria (Helena Bonham Carter).

A Stellar Ensemble Cast

The Enola Holmes series thrives on its ensemble cast, and the third film brings back a roster of familiar faces. Louis Partridge reprises his role as Tewkesbury, Enola’s love interest, whose romance is expected to deepen, adding emotional stakes to the narrative. Helena Bonham Carter returns as Eudoria Holmes, the radical matriarch whose influence continues to shape Enola’s defiance. Himesh Patel’s Dr. John Watson and Sharon Duncan-Brewster’s Moriarty are poised to play significant roles, with the latter potentially emerging as the central antagonist. Susan Wokoma and Adeel Akhtar also return as Edith and Inspector Lestrade, respectively, adding continuity to the series’ world. New cast members, including Bern Collaço as an Officer and Mike Parish as Viscount Chelmsford, hint at an expanded scope.

The absence of Sam Claflin as Mycroft Holmes remains unconfirmed, leaving fans curious about whether the eldest Holmes sibling will reappear. The returning cast’s chemistry, particularly between Brown and Cavill, is a key strength, promising a mix of humor, heart, and suspense.

Plot Speculation: A Darker, More Tangled Mystery

While Enola Holmes 3 diverges from Springer’s novels, elements from The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets, the third book, may influence the story. The novel involves Dr. Watson’s disappearance and cryptic death-symbolizing flowers, which could tie into the Malta mystery. The second film’s introduction of Moriarty and Watson suggests a narrative that blends original storytelling with nods to Conan Doyle’s canon. The Malta setting, described by Netflix as a “nest of vipers,” hints at political intrigue or a conspiracy that tests Enola’s skills. Fans speculate that Enola and Sherlock may team up to rescue Watson or confront Moriarty, navigating a web of deception.

Barantini’s darker tone, as reported by ComicBook.com, could mirror the shift in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, balancing youthful energy with mature themes. The collision of Enola’s personal and professional dreams may explore her struggle to balance her detective career with her feelings for Tewkesbury, adding emotional depth to the action-packed plot.

Fan Reactions: A Frenzy of Anticipation

The announcement of Enola Holmes 3 and Cavill’s return has ignited a firestorm of excitement on social media. Millie Bobby Brown’s Instagram post in July 2025, captioned “case closed,” drew thousands of comments, with Netflix’s playful “omgomgomg” response amplifying the hype. Fans on X, including posts from @DiscussingFilm and @cavill_40k, celebrated Cavill’s involvement, with reactions like “HENRY CAVILL IS BACK AS SHERLOCK I’M SCREAMING” and “Enola Holmes 3 with Millie and Henry is going to be epic!” The darker tone and Malta setting have sparked fan theories, with many hoping for a larger role for Sherlock and a climactic showdown with Moriarty. The phrase “chills down my spine” has become a common sentiment, reflecting the suspense surrounding Netflix’s teases.

Netflix’s Strategy: Building on a Hit Franchise

Netflix’s investment in Enola Holmes 3 reflects its confidence in the franchise’s global appeal. The first film’s 76 million household views and the sequel’s chart-topping performance underscore its commercial viability. The streamer’s decision to greenlight a third film, despite a crowded 2025 slate, highlights its commitment to expanding the Holmes universe. Scott Stuber, Netflix’s former head of film, expressed enthusiasm for the project in a Collider interview, noting the potential to build on the intellectual property. The involvement of Legendary Entertainment and PCMA Productions ensures high production values, while Barantini’s fresh perspective aims to attract both existing fans and new viewers.

Release Date and Expectations

While no official release date has been announced, the production timeline suggests a premiere in Spring or Summer 2026. Filming, which wrapped in July 2025, is followed by post-production, expected to be extensive due to the film’s international settings and complex narrative. A March-to-June 2026 window aligns with the 18-month gap between production and release for Enola Holmes 2. Netflix’s Tudum website promises further updates, keeping fans on edge for a trailer or official date.

Expectations are high for Enola Holmes 3 to deliver a thrilling, emotionally resonant story. The darker tone, combined with Barantini’s immersive style and Thorne’s sharp writing, could elevate the franchise to new heights. Fans hope for a balance of Enola’s signature humor, Sherlock’s deductive prowess, and a compelling mystery that ties the ensemble together. The Malta setting and potential Moriarty showdown add intrigue, while Cavill’s expanded role could satisfy longtime Sherlock fans.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The Enola Holmes series has left a significant mark on popular culture, offering a feminist lens on a traditionally male-dominated narrative. Enola’s defiance of Victorian norms and her role as a young female detective have resonated with audiences, earning a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score for the first film. Cavill’s Sherlock, with his blend of stoicism and warmth, has redefined the character for a modern audience, while Brown’s star power has cemented her as a leading voice in Hollywood.

As Enola Holmes 3 approaches, its cultural impact is poised to grow. The franchise’s ability to blend historical context, youthful adventure, and universal themes makes it a standout in Netflix’s catalog. Cavill’s return, alongside Brown and the ensemble cast, ensures that the film will be a major event, drawing viewers eager for a fresh mystery and deeper character exploration.

Conclusion

Henry Cavill’s return to Netflix in Enola Holmes 3 is a triumph for fans and a testament to the franchise’s enduring appeal. Alongside Millie Bobby Brown’s radiant Enola, Cavill’s Sherlock promises to shine in a darker, more complex chapter set against the vibrant backdrop of Malta. With a stellar cast, a visionary new director, and a script that balances personal stakes with thrilling mystery, Enola Holmes 3 is poised to captivate audiences in 2026. As production wraps and anticipation builds, the Holmes siblings’ next adventure is set to be their most unforgettable yet, solidifying their place in the pantheon of iconic detective stories.