Sherlock Gnomes

Set in a bright, cleverly designed garden world where plastic plants shimmer and hedges double as hideouts, Gnomeo and Juliet find their peaceful life upended when precious garden ornaments vanish. They seek help from Sherlock Gnomes, a renowned detective with a sharp sense of humor and a knack for cracking seemingly impossible cases. The investigation sends them on a hopscotch of clues through lawns, planters and the nooks behind patio furniture, as they interview talking statues and decipher coded messages carved in stones. The stakes feel personal yet playful, blending a classic mystery vibe with the whimsical charm that makes this world feel alive for kids and families. The film uses vibrant colors and quick cut gags that play well in a home theater setting. The tone stays light and inviting.

Directed by John Stevenson, Sherlock Gnomes arrived in 2018 as a continuation of the Gnomeo and Juliet universe. The project draws on original creators Ben Zazove, Emily Cook and Andy Riley and features lively voice work by Johnny Depp, Emily Blunt and James McAvoy.

It earned 90,497,778 worldwide against a production budget of 59,000,000, signaling solid family appeal across markets and a reasonable return for the studio given the competitive animation landscape. Its performance benefited from global markets where family animated fare remains popular.

Reception was mixed as critics praised the bright visuals and humor while noting a lightweight plot. The film leans on friendship and teamwork to solve problems, with themes of detective work appealing to young viewers and their families, for younger audiences in particular.

While it didn't spark a major cultural moment, the movie sits within the late 2010s trend of animated adventures built around familiar IP and celebrity voices. Sherlock Gnomes is remembered more as a cheerful companion to Gnomeo and Juliet than a stand alone classic.