Sherlock Holmes and his stalwart partner Watson, both Arthur Conan Doyle’s most famous characters, will hit the silverscreen on December this year.

The legendary detective will be brought to life and protrayed by Robert Downey Jr.  Jude Law stars as Holmes’ trusted colleague, Watson, a doctor and war veteran who is a formidable ally for Sherlock Holmes. Rachel McAdams portrays Irene Adler, the only woman ever to have bested Holmes and who has maintained a tempestuous relationship with the detective. Mark Strong stars as their mysterious new adversary, Blackwood. Kelly Reilly will play Watson’s love interest, Mary.

This film is directed by Guy Ritchine. This big screen adaptation of Sherlock Holmes is set to premiere on December 25, 2009.