John is amazing because Martin Freeman.
I’ve had this in my mind lately so I guess I’ll lay it out. (This is an appreciation and wonderment post.)
It’s been said that Martin Freeman has a very expressive face, and his voice also being expressive and wonderful to listen goes without saying, but it’s his face I’ve been thinking about. Specifically, this expression (or, the subtle variants, but this is a recognizable scene).
I think I’ve seen notions here and there about John looking more “alive” and “happy” in the second season and I agree. He makes a certain face, and mostly when he’s talking to Sherlock. The thing is, there is no single or two or three adjectives to describe it. Content? Caring? Alive? Relaxed? Vivid?
It’s something in his eyes that you can’t put a finger on (pun… never mind). Think about this scene for example - if you’re as obsessed a fan as you probably are if you’re reading this, it’s there. That something different John Watson face. It’s been present throughout season 2, and as Benedict said in an interview, “Sherlock and John are now established as a pair and if something’s changed, it’s Sherlock gaining humanity” - these among other reasons have changed John. What exactly I find absolutely unbelievable is how well Martin has included this shift from season 1 in his acting, his John Watson. He develops the character, beneath the surface, yet visibly.
This is some good acting, and when I say just “good”, I’m being indelicate.
