Get out the popcorn. It's November.

Today we take a look at that most iconic of British detectives – no, not Hercule Poirot, Sherlock Holmes. Holmes' first famous portrayer was, ironically, an American. Before you go any further, check out William Gillette playing Holmes. Before you criticise, remember that Arthur Conan Doyle licenced this version, and even declared that Gillette looked exactly like Holmes. Of course, everyone's got a favourite Sherlock.

Today's Short Subjects: I know who our favourite Sherlock is these days. He's a fellow named Cumberbatch. Usually, he's a thoroughly modern Sherlock, twittering his way through cases, but the Christmas preview this year holds out the promise of a 19th-century adventure involving Sherlock, Mrs Hudson, Mary, and Watson's mustache. We've even seen the shooting location videos on Youtube.

Gillette's play started the tradition that the theatrical Holmes was first bested by Irene Adler (or a stand-in such as Alice Faulkner), then, usually, fell in love with her. Back in the 1960s, there was even a musical version of the old story, called Baker Street. In this song, Holmes explains to Watson why he's not interested in girls. Which makes this version different from Gillette's? Not really. Irene wins him over in the end, mauve bustle and all.

Today's Feature Film: And now, the whole Gillette play in all its glory, as performed in the 1970s by Frank Langella. It's the same old play, but somehow, the lines read differently… I think you'll get a kick out of this melodrama.

And yes, yes, Awix reviewed the Ian McKellen version. Awix is also a major fan of the Basil Rathbone films. Does anybody enjoy Jonny Lee Miller in Elementary? The plots aren't exciting, but we have two words for you: Lucy. Liu.

We guess there'll always be a Sherlock Holmes, with or without mobile.