The Enola Holmes film series has significantly showcased Millie Bobby Brown's transition from a child actor to a prominent movie star. Brown was just 16 years old when the first film, Enola Holmes, premiered in 2020. Now, with the release of Enola Holmes 3 on Netflix, she is 22 years old.

All three films have been predominantly driven by Brown's inherent charisma. The first two installments were directed by Harry Bradbeer, who has experience from Fleabag, and they effectively utilized her ability to break the fourth wall. The narrative of Enola Holmes thrives on her clever asides, expressive glances, and animated eyebrow raises.

While the surrounding elements of the story often lean towards an over-amped and stylized presentation, Enola Holmes 3 maintains the spirited and agile pacing of its predecessors. Crucially, it does not take itself too seriously. When Enola's mother, Eudoria, portrayed by a captivating Helena Bonham Carter, declares that "this is all a ridiculous merry mess," she acutely sums up the essence of the film.

In contrast to the YA themes of the first two films, which featured a light feminist angle, the third installment introduces a slightly more mature narrative, nudging Brown's character toward rom-com territory. In the opening scene, Enola grapples with her impending marriage to Lord Tewkesbury, played by Louis Partridge, hesitating before hastily riding to the wedding.

Her uncertainty stems not from a lack of affection for Tewkesbury but from a fear of losing her own identity. Enola has diligently constructed her own reputation within the Holmes legacy, operating a detective agency in London. The idea of becoming "a lady" is not enticing for her.

Most of the characters, primarily the Tewkesburys (due to the Holmes family’s inherently secretive nature), have congregated for a lavish destination wedding in Malta. However, Enola's wedding plans are abruptly interrupted when her brother, Sherlock Holmes, portrayed by Henry Cavill, is kidnapped.

As the central mystery of the film, Sherlock’s kidnapping may not be the most gripping of plots. Indeed, it is difficult to imagine someone needing rescue less than Sherlock Holmes. The screenplay, crafted by Jack Thorne based on Nancy Springer's character, intertwines a mishmash of secrets, the allure of sunken treasure, and a subplot concerning British colonialism, leading to a complex narrative that may leave some viewers feeling that modern interpretations of Arthur Conan Doyle are often overwhelmed by action-movie theatrics.

Despite the convoluted plot, director Philip Barantini manages to keep the film's pace enjoyable. The enchanting Malta backdrop, combined with the film’s chaotic but fun tone, contributes positively to Brown’s ongoing emergence as a charming presence, whether on big or small screens.

Enola Holmes 3, which is currently streaming on Netflix, carries a PG-13 rating for some violence and has a running time of 105 minutes. The film has received a rating of two and a half stars out of four.

Overall, the Enola Holmes series portrays a blend of whimsical storytelling and character development, cementing Millie Bobby Brown's status as a leading figure in modern cinematic narratives.