The three faces of Dr. Watson...
--------
Source - http://humon.deviantart.com/
The Holmes/Watson relationships in the three incarnations I listed in this picture.
First Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce. Bruce’s Watson pretty much set the tone for the future Watsons for many years. He was a fool who worshiped Holmes, and (to me at least) their friendship seemed rather cold and one-sided.
Next Jeremy Brett and Edward Hardwick. In this version their friendship was rather touching. Watson was impressed by Holmes intelligence, but he didn’t always trust Holmes’ instincts, and often needed proof to believe him. It annoyed Holmes at times, but it also gave him an excuse to brag a little. Holmes would also often seek out Watson to ask him to come with him, apparently just to have some company, as he rarely needed Watson to solve the case.
And finally Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. Most Holmes fans are probably going to hate this take on their relationship, but I think it’s rather interesting. Watson has been following Holmes around for years, but now feels it’s time to settle down with his own practice and propose to Mary. He doesn’t want to leave Holmes for good, but would like to get out of the dangerous detective business. Problem is, Holmes entire life is his work. He has few interests outside of his detective business, and rarely talks to people who can’t help him in some way. In other words, if Watson isn’t part of his work, he isn’t part of his life. Therefore Holmes is not happy with Watson wanting to leave, as he truly cares about him, and would like to keep him as his friend. It is of course a way of thinking Watson doesn’t understand, and it leads to some tension between them.