A few weeks ago, the buzz was that Russell Crowe would be playing Watson to Downey’s Holmes.

Personally, I thought this was a dreadful idea. Fortunately it was debunked pretty quickly.

Now word comes that two-time Oscar nominee Jude Law (Cold Mountain, The Talented Mr. Ripley) is in final negotiations to play the kindly doctor.

I rather like the idea of Law, I think he and RD jr. could have some nice chemistry.

Not to mention that he, unlike Crowe, would not have Watson being much bigger than Holmes.

As was previously mentioned, Guy Ritchie will be directing this update of Doyle’s iconic detective. Holmes will still use his mind, but also showcase his more physical skills as well.

Filming is supposed to start, in London, in mid October,