‘Sherlock: The Abominable Bride’ video: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman in another trailer

“Sherlock” is returning to television on New Year’s Day, and based on the latest trailer that has been released for “The Abominable Bride,” this Victorian special looks to very much have a particularly creepy vibe to it.

Does anyone else get a “Doctor Who” vibe from this? While there may not be any time travel, there is a sort of supernatural / ghost story element to it. The main difference here is that there is going to be some sort of logical explanation for it when the dust settles. The goal for Holmes and Watson will just be trying to figure out whatever angle this is.

One other fascinating part of this story is going to be seeing how many “Sherlock” staples end up making their way into the special, given that we are back in another universe in a way and this is not canon to anything in the show. Therefore, there is a great degree of creative freedom to come up with whatever idea you want, and then play on that to the best of your ability. We’re predicting a good many surprises, and also a cameo or two that will make some out there smile.

Here’s probably the most interesting this about the special: While we know Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman are once again the leads, the BBC has done a very good job at keeping almost everything else entirely under wraps. That is especially not easy when you think about the sort of public scrutiny that goes into anything with this at this particular time.

(Photo: BBC One.)