The Fall in 'Sherlock Holmes 2009': A Thrilling Explanation

In the 2009 film Sherlock Holmes, the iconic detective finds himself at the brink of death as he leaps off a cliff. This article explores the physics behind his survival, guided by the title of his well-known fall: “The Reichenbach Falls.”

The Fall and Its Explanation in the BBC Series

In the BBC series adaptation of Sherlock, "The Reichenbach Fall," actor Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes offers a highly imaginative yet logically compelling explanation for his survival. This clip is notable not just for its dramatic tension but for the clever subversion of expectations.

Traditional theories, such as the one from fan theories, revolve around a complex and somewhat laughable hypothesis involving a British hypnotist. However, the series, much like the superior TV adaptation, focuses more on the psychological aspects of the fall and the audience's suspension of disbelief.

The explanation given within the show is deeply rooted in Holmes' intelligence and preparedness. Creating a false narrative of his own death would serve multiple purposes: it would throw the villain, Moriarty, off his guard and distract the pursuers like Colonel Sebastian Moran, who is portrayed as an unreliable foe with a modern weapon like an air gun.

Baritsu and the Art of Survival

Arthur Conan Doyle's original story The Final Problem reveals a different and more theatrical explanation. In this narrative, Holmes engages in a dramatic wrestling match with Moriarty, using a fighting style called Baritsu. This punchy and superbly choreographed fight draws heavily from Japanese jujitsu, combined with cane-fighting and French kickboxing—a phenomenon that had a brief vogue in late 19th-century England.

According to the story, Holmes believes he wins the match by heaving Moriarty off the cliff and escaping with only minor injuries. The reality, however, is far more harrowing, as both men would have been under the crossfire from Colonel Moran, a detail crucial to understanding the events in the climactic scene.

Surviving the Reichenbach Fall: A Physics Perspective

The physicality of the fall, particularly the physics involved, provides another layer to Holmes' survival. The fall through water, as depicted in the movie, takes advantage of a property of water known as surface tension. Surface tension is the cohesive force acting between like molecules of a liquid that makes the liquid's surface behave like an elastic film.

In typical settings, falling a great height would result in a splatter of water particles, creating a forceful and devastating impact. However, when the water falls in a cascading or falling stream, as in a waterfall, the impact force is significantly reduced because the surface tension disrupts the water's surface, allowing the body to hit the water more gently.

If the fall had been into normal water, the impact would almost certainly have been fatal. The impact alone would have been enough to cause a fatal concussion, not to mention the potential for drowning or other fatal trauma. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the conditions and physics of the fall when analyzing how Holmes managed to survive.

Intelligence and Preparation: The Key to Survival

Beyond the physical aspects of the fall, Holmes' intelligence and preparedness play a crucial role in his survival. The fact that Holmes had thought through the mechanics of his fall and the aftermath speaks volumes about his character. By ensuring his body was found under the water, he created a convincing narrative that would serve him well in both the short term and the long term.

Furthermore, the movie adds an intriguing layer of physics with Mycroft's oxygen supply. If Holmes was under water for an extended period, his ability to manage his breathing and stay conscious could have been the deciding factor. This small detail adds a scientific reasoning to the explanation, enhancing the overall suspension of disbelief.

In conclusion, Sherlock Holmes' survival in "The Reichenbach Fall" is a testament to his intellect, preparation, and the unique blend of science and showmanship that defines his character. Whether it is the theatrical battle with Moriarty or the practical application of physics, his survival is a marvel of storytelling and logic that captivates audiences to this day.