DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently in theatres from director Simon Curtis and Focus Features based on the story created by Julian Fellowes is the ending of an era with DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale.

It is the 1930’s and the Crawley family is learning to literally change with the times. Beginning with the visiting the London stage show with Guy Dexter (Dominic West) and assistant Barrow (Robert James Collier). Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville), Countess Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) and husband Bertie (Harry Hadden-Paton) go backstage and meet the ever-popular Noel Coward (Arty Froushan). It is the height of the season and the next evening Lady Petersfield (Joely Richardson) has a ball and Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) is dressed to the nines. That is when Mary’s world comes once again crashing as news of her marriage changes her social status.

Coming back to England is brother Harold (Paul Giamatti) who is visiting to update Cora on their late mother’s estate bringing advisor Gus Sambrook (Alessandro Nivola). The family happily returns to Downton welcomed by butler Carson (Jim Carter) who is turning over the reins to Andy (Michael Fox) under the watchful eye of Mrs. Hughes (Phyllis Logan). He is not the only one retiring as Mrs. Patmore (Lesley Nicol) is also preparing to depart Downton and leaving it in the hands of Daisy (Sophie McShera). Anna (Joanne Froggatt) is still by Mary’s side as is husband Bates (Brendan Coyle) caring for his Lordship. Baxter (Raquel Cassidy) and Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle) are still part of the downstairs staff as well. They all know what is happening with Lady Mary and, as always, keep their knowing to themselves.

Arriving at Downton as well is Tom Branson (Allen Leech) bringing daughter Sybbie (Fifi Hart) to visit and be a support to the family and Lady Mary. Isobel (Penelope Wilton) also comes to the family to talk about the upcoming family-community event asking Daisy and Mr. Carson to be part of committee much to the dismay of Sir Moreland (Simon Beale). If all of this wasn’t enough on the Crawley calendar, decisions on changes that have Lord Grantham must now make in order to keep their legacy growing.

Each come to terms with where they have been in their time at Downton Abbey and know that change is not always something to fear.

Other cast include Paul Copley as Albert Mason, Douglas Reith as Lord Merton, Lisa Dillon as Princess Arthur, Sarah Crowden as Lady Manville, Oliver Barker as George, Eva Samms as Marigold, and Rose Galbraith as Lady Gwendoline.

Focus Features’ mission is to make a lasting impact on global audiences by creating the home for artists to share diverse, distinctive stories that inspire human connection. Focus Features is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies that brings entertainment and news to a global audience. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.focusfeatures.com.

Now, let me get my Downton Abbey teapot of Earl Grey, teacup/saucer and my delicate plate of madeleines and box of tissues before I start this. Okay, here we go –

I accidentally discovered DOWNTON ABBEY in 2011 while watching another success story with The Great British Baking Show. For year, those shows were my Sunday night back-to-back fun that I could not get enough of. The cast of DOWNTON ABBEY drew me in immediately (as I am a huge fan of period pieces in television and film) and the storyline was riveting, powerful and thought provoking. The Crawley family, being led by Lord Grantham, are important to the community providing positions in the household as well as farming. From the beginning, the family dynamics were so interesting with Cora being the American wife and three daughters who were clearly so very different. Navigating their world from two different perspectives and finding themselves lost occasionally, Robert and Cora were the stabilizing force of Downton. All of it played beautifully by Bonneville and McGovern with an ending that they deserved that was graceful and loving.

Mary, Edith and Sybil were headstrong, insecure, lovely and met the challenges that the world brought them. Mary found Matthew, Edith found Bertie and Sybil found her prince charming in Tom Branson. Dockery as Mary saw more than her fair share of difficulties but the fact is, when the time came, she knew how to stand tall no matter who tries to knock her down in a time where women scratched harder than we, today, could have imagined. Carmichael as Edith began as a shrinking violet in life, love and an older sister who, at times, was not very nice. Yet, the more she experienced, the more she literally grew and deserved a loving and happily ever after. Findlay played Sybil for years and has never been forgotten season after season up until the last.

Stevenson played Matthew and he, as well, was not forgotten for Mary and I adored that about her. Patton as Bertie gave us a man who was content in his life and when it turned around, he became secure in who he was to become with Edith at his side. Now let’s talk Branson, Leech gave us a bit of Irish rebellion while wearing a chauffer’s uniform. He loved Sybil, lost himself in trying to mix working class with Downtown Abbey and it was a story within itself. I loved watching Leech grow and it was so well done.

Downton could not have been without the staff who kept the household together beginning with Mr. Carson. His story began as a young man working in the Crawley household working his way up to butler and always keeping an eye on Lady Mary. He was tough, secretly gentle but always, always put Downton first! That caused a few eyerolls from Mrs. Hughes, played by Logan, who was a woman of straight talk, a shoulder to cry on and believed that every person in service could be more than they could ever have imagined. Sharing the downstairs was the woman behind the dinners as Mrs. Patmore, played by Nicole, who made the kitchen her place of creation with pride in those she cooked for. Keeping her company was McShera as Daisy, a wide eyed, questioning and sometimes moody “sous chef” who often wondered if she’d ever be as good as her mentor. She does finally find a life with Andy, played by Fox, who shares his story of climbing the ladder of service but with a subdued character that made him instantly likeable.

Taking care of Mary’s needs was Froggat’s Anna, a woman with heart, soul and a person that trouble seems to follow on the regular. I just adored the character of Anna as such a stable force among the downstairs and even when her life was just in shambles, she found her way back. Mr. Bates might have had something to do with that strength; Coyle is a man wounded by war but finds a safe space and a kinship with Lord Grantham while also being the man who takes care of the head of house. When his life becomes a roadmap of chaos, it is Anna that helps him consistently so watching their ending in this film was everything anyone could have hoped for. Mr. Moseley, played by Doyle, is the insecure bumbler of a footman who always seems to find himself on the ins and then the outs of Downton until he accidentally stumbles into a line of work that he enjoys and provides. It also gives him a chance at love with Miss Baxter; Cassidy portrays her as a woman who is used for his back history until the day she stood tall and made a new life for herself. Who was using that back history? Well, that would be Mr. Barrow played brilliantly by James Collier. This actor spent years perfecting the man who we all loved to hate and then love again. A mixture of complexities had everyone guessing every episode whether we all wanted to shake him or hug him. In the finale, Barrow finds the missing piece of his life in silent film actor Guy Dexter played by West.

Wilton as Isobel takes the center controls with the absence of Maggie Smith as the Dowager Violet Crawley. Taking the lead in representing the family for the township, I adore her ability to remain steadfast and even cutting when she needed to be and what a relationship between Isobel and Violet that can never be matched or repeated ever again. In the final film, West returns as Dexter to say his final farewells to the Crawley’s and brings along Noel Coward in the form of Froushan and I loved every moment he was on screen. Giamatti returns as Cora’s brother Harold and is taught a lesson in sisterly tough love but knows he can always come ‘home’.

The film is stunningly beautiful with the costuming, the score is everything we have come to know and memorable and, of course, Downton Abbey itself in the form of Highclere Castle. Every time a vintage car pulled in it was the light sound of pebbles below the tires, the front door castes and the sound of the click of the latch, the library that held so many teas, the staircase that is surrounded by stunning artwork, the gallery that overlooked so many events, the lush green vast lawn that anyone would be happy to stroll along – all of it, breathtaking. There are many castles in Europe but to Downton Abbey fans, there is only one that stole our hearts. Not stolen really, more like held onto it until the saga came to its conclusion, then returned it to us with a bow and a ‘thank you’ for the years of dedication we also had to the show.

Finally, to creator Julian Fellowes, how can this woman ever thank you for your thoughtfulness, your ability to tell an amazing story that has kept the world captivated and talking, the time it took for your imagination to find its way onto paper then screen and for taking us all year after year on a journey as the world changed in so many ways for Downton and its inhabitants. These characters grew, changed, felt their worlds collapse only to be rebuilt into something stronger, found amazing joy, unexpected friendships, death of beloved characters and birth of new additions to the family. Thank you for giving me Violate Crawley in the body of Maggie Smith, the woman who had my heart and spoke the words I always wanted to on so many occasions. You kept her front and center even after we all had to say goodbye. It was all you sir, and the words ‘thank you’ feel not enough to express what you have brought to us all.

As I sit here and sit the last drop of my tea, I am comforted in the knowledge that right behind me is a Blu-ray of every season of DOWNTON ABBEY as well as the films that followed. Anytime I wish, I can return to the characters that I have loved so much. DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale was a hard watch, yes. Kleenex worthy? Absolutely. There are moments that just wrecked me and when the lights came up in the theatre, I was so surprised to see that there wasn’t a dry eye in the seats. We all looked at one another and sort of giggled, passing tissue and felt that we had just experienced one of the best endings of a series ever. Strangers had become talking friends walking out of the theatre with tears turning into laughter and hugs. It was an extraordinary experience and, I will remember it. Or, in the words of the Dowager, “My dear, a lack of compassion can be as vulgar as an excess of tears”.

In the end – the time has come to say goodbye!

 

 

 

Return to DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Simon Curtis, written by Julian Fellowes and Focus Features is the return of DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era.

The family is together again in 1929 and this time to celebrate the wedding of Tom Branson (Allen Leech) and Lucy (Tuppence Middleton). Robert (Hugh Bonneville), Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), Mary (Michelle Dockery), Rosamund (Samantha Bond), Edith (Laura Carmichael), husband Bertie (Harry Hadden-Paton), Isobel (Penelope Wilson), husband Dickie (Douglas Reith), Dr. Clarkson (David Robb), Maud (Imelda Staunton) and the Dowager herself Violet (Maggie Smith) are all celebrating.

Part of the celebration include the staff with Mr. Carson (Jim Carter), Mrs. Hughs (Phyllis Logan), Ms. Baxter (Raquel Cassidy), Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle), Anna (Joanne Froggatt), Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle), Andy (Michael Fox), Daisy (Sophie McShera), Albert (Charlie Watson), Ms. Patmore (Lesley Nicol), Ms. Denker (Sue Johnston) and leading the household is Mr. Barrow (Robert James-Collier).

Violet wishes to have a family meeting to discuss something very important. Family lawyer Mr. Murray (Jonathan Coy) is taking too long arriving, so the announcement is that Violet has inherited a villa in the South of France from a man she knew long, long ago. An even bigger surprise is that she has changed her will to give the estate to great granddaughter Sibbie! Since she is unable to go, Robert, Cora, Tom, Lucy, Edith, Bertie and Mr. Carson are going to make the journey.

At Downton Abbey, Lady Mary has decided that their home desperately needs a new roof and with the generous offer from a studio to make a film, she and the staff stay behind. Arriving is director Jack Barber (Hugh Dancy), silent actress Myrna Dalgleish (Laura Haddock), and silent actor Guy Dexter (Dominic West) settle in to begin filming.

Arriving in France, they are greeted by current owners Marquis de Montmirail (Jonathan Zaccai) and his mother Madame Montmirail (Nathalie Baye). There is tension in the air because Madame Montmirail is upset that her husband willed their home to someone else, but the Marquis seems serious about making sure the Crawley family knows he wants to follow his father’s wishes.

Back at the Abbey, every female is oogling Guy Dexter and envious of the beautiful Myrna Dagleish. But the magic of movie making comes with its own set of issues and the staff, especially Daisy and Anna, know how to set it right but not before Mary finds herself in the middle of it all!

Welcome back to Downton Abbey!

Bonneville and McGovern are back to lead the family into a new era as the family expands with Tom and Lucy as well as grandchildren all around. Going to France, Bonneville as Lord Grantham deals with the Dowager’s past and McGovern’s Cora has a secret of her own. What would the family be without these two actors giving us a firm grasp for seasons and now movies. They have given life and love to both the home and family that fans have adored and for which Bonneville and McGovern should forever be proud.

Dockery and Carmichael as Lady Mary and Lady Edith are the sisters who have fought for Abbey, fought each other and seem to have found middle ground in this film. Both married with their own children, now they both understand the importance of family and the heritage that is Downton Abbey. Mary finds herself at the center of Hollywood and Edith stands with her father in France.

Leech and Middleton as Tom and Lucy are the newest members of the family as happiness has finally found the former chauffer and son-in-law with his marriage to the late Sybil Crawley. Wilson and Reith as Isobel and Dickie are never far behind when it comes to being part of the family. Wilson gives Isobel the closeness and integrity to be a part of the still ill Dowager Violet.

Carter and Logan return and Mr. and Mrs. Bates and both are still dedicated to the Abbey and each other. Mr. Bates returns to help the family in France with a push from Mary and Mrs. Bates keep the staff in check as she has always done. They are everything to this household and expect a few changes that I am thrilled about.

Froggatt and Coyle as Mr. Bates and Anna are always such a joy to see. Personally, I have rooted for these two characters since their first introducing in Season One of the series. They are both such charming and sweet characters that you cannot help but be a cheerleader for them. Cassidy and Doyle are back as Miss Baxter and Mr. Molesley are still enjoying each other’s company.

James-Collier as Barrow is back and still running Downton Abbey from his long road to get there. His journey has not only been difficult but almost always self-inflicted. Age has calmed this character as he still searches for love. Nicol as Ms. Patmore is still running the kitchen with a firm hand but is interested in the goings on upstairs!

Fox and McShera as Andy and Daisy are happily married and trying to figure out the logistics of living with William’s father, Mr. Mason (Paul Copley). It’s difficult to live under someone’s else’s roof with the uncertainty of where you stand.

Dancy as Barber has a vision of the film and dealing with the changing times in films as well, turns towards Mary for help and a little bit of a crush. Haddock as Dalgleish is a woman who sees the writing on the wall for films and has a slight problem as talking pictures become the rage.

Zaccai as Montmirail is a man coming to terms with his father’s wishes and meeting Lord Grantham has questions of his own. Baye as Madame Montrmirail is not having any of it – giving away her home and giving away her home to the Dowager!

Now, we must address the elegant cup of tea in the room, the dearest, hilarious, and wonderful Maggie Smith. She is the rock of Downton Abbey even if she has had to scratch and claw her way to the position of Dowager. She has a past, and fans know this with the introduction of Russian royal in the series. Now, her past has come back again and a friendship with a gentleman in France that has the family asking so many questions. Smith has given us a character that can never, ever be duplicated with her humor, delivery of snappy one-liners (I have the coffee mug to prove it), care, wisdom and all the stamina that writer Julian Fellowes could give her.

Other cast includes Eva and Karina Samms as Marigold, Oliver and Zac Barker as George, Bibi and Olive Burr as Caroline, Archer Robbins as Johnnie, Alex Skarbek as Roussel, and Fifi Hart as Sybbie.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

Focus Features’ mission is to make a lasting impact on global audiences by creating the home for artists to share diverse, distinctive stories that inspire human connection. Focus Features is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies that brings entertainment and news to a global audience. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.focusfeatures.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features and also available on 4K Ultra HD include Good to Be Back, Return to DOWNTON ABBEY: The Making of a NEW ERA, A Legendary Character, Creating the Film Within the Film, Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia, Spill the Tea (Time), Feature Commentary with Director Simon Curtis.

DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era is another chapter of a family fans have come to know and love since 2010. It has been a journey of every human emotion, event and happening that could be imagined, and writer Julian Fellowes gave everything and so much more. The characters have given us so much more as each episode aired and then punched it through to the big screen and hoping for another.

The settings are exquisite in France, but it is at Downton where my heart always lies. Nothing wrong with a trip across the water to see something new and find out more about the Dowager’s life as a young woman, but back at ‘home’ everything is familiar, comfortable and crazy. Having Hollywood stop by give Mary what she needs to keep everything going and that’s what matters.

Let’s talk about the costuming – there is not a single thread out of place. I absolutely love that the clothing changes with the times, but it is still so beautiful to see. The clothing draws us into the times and brings the story being told such an air of believability.

The family has grown, the staff has grown, and the times have changed, and Downton Abbey stays in the heart. For fans, we have come home to a very special place!

In the end – the legacy continues!

Return to DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Simon Curtis, written by Julian Fellowes and Focus Features is the return of DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era.

The family is together again in 1929 and this time to celebrate the wedding of Tom Branson (Allen Leech) and Lucy (Tuppence Middleton). Robert (Hugh Bonneville), Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), Mary (Michelle Dockery), Rosamund (Samantha Bond), Edith (Laura Carmichael), husband Bertie (Harry Hadden-Paton), Isobel (Penelope Wilson), husband Dickie (Douglas Reith), Dr. Clarkson (David Robb), Maud (Imelda Staunton) and the Dowager herself Violet (Maggie Smith) are all celebrating.

Part of the celebration include the staff with Mr. Carson (Jim Carter), Mrs. Hughs (Phyllis Logan), Ms. Baxter (Raquel Cassidy), Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle), Anna (Joanne Froggatt), Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle), Andy (Michael Fox), Daisy (Sophie McShera), Albert (Charlie Watson), Ms. Patmore (Lesley Nicol), Ms. Denker (Sue Johnston) and leading the household is Mr. Barrow (Robert James-Collier).

Violet wishes to have a family meeting to discuss something very important. Family lawyer Mr. Murray (Jonathan Coy) is taking too long arriving, so the announcement is that Violet has inherited a villa in the South of France from a man she knew long, long ago. An even bigger surprise is that she has changed her will to give the estate to great granddaughter Sibbie! Since she is unable to go, Robert, Cora, Tom, Lucy, Edith, Bertie and Mr. Carson are going to make the journey.

At Downton Abbey, Lady Mary has decided that their home desperately needs a new roof and with the generous offer from a studio to make a film, she and the staff stay behind. Arriving is director Jack Barber (Hugh Dancy), silent actress Myrna Dalgleish (Laura Haddock), and silent actor Guy Dexter (Dominic West) settle in to begin filming.

Arriving in France, they are greeted by current owners Marquis de Montmirail (Jonathan Zaccai) and his mother Madame Montmirail (Nathalie Baye). There is tension in the air because Madame Montmirail is upset that her husband willed their home to someone else, but the Marquis seems serious about making sure the Crawley family knows he wants to follow his father’s wishes.

Back at the Abbey, every female is oogling Guy Dexter and envious of the beautiful Myrna Dagleish. But the magic of movie making comes with its own set of issues and the staff, especially Daisy and Anna, know how to set it right but not before Mary finds herself in the middle of it all!

Welcome back to Downton Abbey!

Bonneville and McGovern are back to lead the family into a new era as the family expands with Tom and Lucy as well as grandchildren all around. Going to France, Bonneville as Lord Grantham deals with the Dowager’s past and McGovern’s Cora has a secret of her own. What would the family be without these two actors giving us a firm grasp for seasons and now movies. They have given life and love to both the home and family that fans have adored and for which Bonneville and McGovern should forever be proud.

Dockery and Carmichael as Lady Mary and Lady Edith are the sisters who have fought for Abbey, fought each other and seem to have found middle ground in this film. Both married with their own children, now they both understand the importance of family and the heritage that is Downton Abbey. Mary finds herself at the center of Hollywood and Edith stands with her father in France.

Leech and Middleton as Tom and Lucy are the newest members of the family as happiness has finally found the former chauffer and son-in-law with his marriage to the late Sybil Crawley. Wilson and Reith as Isobel and Dickie are never far behind when it comes to being part of the family. Wilson gives Isobel the closeness and integrity to be a part of the still ill Dowager Violet.

Carter and Logan return and Mr. and Mrs. Bates and both are still dedicated to the Abbey and each other. Mr. Bates returns to help the family in France with a push from Mary and Mrs. Bates keep the staff in check as she has always done. They are everything to this household and expect a few changes that I am thrilled about.

Froggatt and Coyle as Mr. Bates and Anna are always such a joy to see. Personally, I have rooted for these two characters since their first introducing in Season One of the series. They are both such charming and sweet characters that you cannot help but be a cheerleader for them. Cassidy and Doyle are back as Miss Baxter and Mr. Molesley are still enjoying each other’s company.

James-Collier as Barrow is back and still running Downton Abbey from his long road to get there. His journey has not only been difficult but almost always self-inflicted. Age has calmed this character as he still searches for love. Nicol as Ms. Patmore is still running the kitchen with a firm hand but is interested in the goings on upstairs!

Fox and McShera as Andy and Daisy are happily married and trying to figure out the logistics of living with William’s father, Mr. Mason (Paul Copley). It’s difficult to live under someone’s else’s roof with the uncertainty of where you stand.

Dancy as Barber has a vision of the film and dealing with the changing times in films as well, turns towards Mary for help and a little bit of a crush. Haddock as Dalgleish is a woman who sees the writing on the wall for films and has a slight problem as talking pictures become the rage.

Zaccai as Montmirail is a man coming to terms with his father’s wishes and meeting Lord Grantham has questions of his own. Baye as Madame Montrmirail is not having any of it – giving away her home and giving away her home to the Dowager!

Now, we must address the elegant cup of tea in the room, the dearest, hilarious, and wonderful Maggie Smith. She is the rock of Downton Abbey even if she has had to scratch and claw her way to the position of Dowager. She has a past, and fans know this with the introduction of Russian royal in the series. Now, her past has come back again and a friendship with a gentleman in France that has the family asking so many questions. Smith has given us a character that can never, ever be duplicated with her humor, delivery of snappy one-liners (I have the coffee mug to prove it), care, wisdom and all the stamina that writer Julian Fellowes could give her.

Other cast includes Eva and Karina Samms as Marigold, Oliver and Zac Barker as George, Bibi and Olive Burr as Caroline, Archer Robbins as Johnnie, Alex Skarbek as Roussel, and Fifi Hart as Sybbie.

Focus Features’ mission is to make a lasting impact on global audiences by creating the home for artists to share diverse, distinctive stories that inspire human connection. Focus Features is part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies that brings entertainment and news to a global audience. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.focusfeatures.com.

DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era is another chapter of a family fans have come to know and love since 2010. It has been a journey of every human emotion, event and happening that could be imagined, and writer Julian Fellowes gave everything and so much more. The characters have given us so much more as each episode aired and then punched it through to the big screen and hoping for another.

The settings are exquisite in France, but it is at Downton where my heart always lies. Nothing wrong with a trip across the water to see something new and find out more about the Dowager’s life as a young woman, but back at ‘home’ everything is familiar, comfortable and crazy. Having Hollywood stop by give Mary what she needs to keep everything going and that’s what matters.

Let’s talk about the costuming – there is not a single thread out of place. I absolutely love that the clothing changes with the times, but it is still so beautiful to see. The clothing draws us into the times and brings the story being told such an air of believability.

The family has grown, the staff has grown, and the times have changed, and Downton Abbey stays in the heart. For fans, we have come home to a very special place!

In the end – the legacy continues!

We Return Once Again to DOWNTON ABBEY on Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray/DVD and Digital from director Michael Engler, Focus Features and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment from the characters created by Julian Fellowes is the return to DOWNTON ABBEY.

The Crawley family continues normal life at Downton Abbey until Robert (Hugh Bonneville), the Earl of Grantham, receives word that the King George V (Simon Jones) and Queen Mary (Geraldine James) are about to make a visit. Cora (Elizabeth McGovern) is thrilled but Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) goes into immediate panic especially with husband Henry (Matthew Goode) off on business. Barrows (Robert James-Collier) is now the head of the staff but Lady Mary feels as if things aren't getting done properly.

Bringing her concerns to Lord Grantham there is only one choice, ask a retired Mr. Carson (Jim Carter) to resume his duties as Downton Abbey until the visit is over and Barrows isn't happy. Mr. Carson gets the staff in order with Andy (Michael Fox) and the return of Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle). Mrs. Hughes (Phyllis Logan) also has her hands full as every nook and cranny must be cleaned and there isn't a lot of time. Mrs. Patmore (Lesley Nicol) and Daisy (Sophie McShera) begin creating a menu fit for royalty.

Violet Crawley (Maggie Smith) doesn't seem as nervous about the King and Queen's visit but is concerned about seeing relative Maud Bagshaw (Imedla Staunton). The Dowager believes that Maud is trying to cut Robert out of any inheritance since being seen about with her companion Lucy (Tuppence Middleton). Isobel (Penelope Wilton) agrees to help Violet discover the true story behind Maud's decision as husband Lord Merton (Douglas Reith) stays out of it.

Tom Branson (Allen Leech) is happy to be back at Downton Abbey and with his car business. When he learns about the King and Queen's visit, some think that perhaps he wouldn't be pleased out it. So much so that Mary senses something is wrong and isn't sure what to do. Up for the festivities is Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) and husband Bertie Hexham (Harry Hadden-Paton) as they make their way home.

With everything buzzing and plans being made, there is a damper on the happiness when the staff are told that they will not be handling the royal visit. Enter the very stuffy Kings manservant Mr. Wilson (David Haig), Queen's dresser Mrs. Webb (Richenda Carey) and royal chef Monsieur Courbet (Philippe Spall). Hardly ready to relinquishing their pride in Downton Abbey, Mrs. Bates (Joanne Froggatt) and Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle) come up with a plan that is brilliant and wonderful. Barrows is also being watched by Captain Chetwode (Stephen Moore) as being upset with Mr. Carson leads him down a bad road.

When the King and Queen finally arrive, the household is in high gear as the royal family is treated to dinner with a party to follow the next evening. That is when secrets are revealed, loyalties are tested and everyone who lives and works at Downton Abbey once again remembers how they have all come together for so long and can't imagine anything else.

Bonneville as the Earl of Grantham returns to his role as the leader of a family who go their own way no matter what he might say about it. This character has grown to understand that things change and if he doesn't then the Downton Abbey could fall at his feet. I adore Bonneville in this role because he has the facial expressions that say everything even if he says nothing. He clearly loves his family and what's more is he respects those who keep his household running. McGovern as Cora is the American who has embraced the world she married into. When she is stern, it comes with a smile most often and when she is giddy her face lights up. Her character is the opposite of Robert which is why these two actors make such an awesome pairing.

Dockery as Lady Mary is such an unusual character because she gives off an air of superiority but when she lets her humanity and frailty show it is a sight for the heart to see. Carmichael as Lady Edith has finally found her niche in the world along with daughter Marigold. Now she needs to find the order of it all. Staunton as Bagshaw is a relative full of secrets and some in the family are going to make sure they know every little juicy detail. Middleton as Lucy has her own secrets but a certain Irishman only sees a lovely young girl.

Leech as Branson has become a character that was once on the outside looking in and now on the inside looking out. Finding the middle ground has always been such a difficult process for this character but now he seems to have found it. Happy with his business and equally happy at Downton Abbey, he carries himself with such grace and still finds humor in his adopted family. Goode as Henry just goes along to get along and is happy in his marriage to Lady Mary, I wish there would have been more of him but I'm thinking it will happen. Hadden-Patton as Hexam is being pulled away by a King who has taken a liking to him and Edith finds herself being meek about it once again. I kept thinking 'come on Edith, stand your ground!'. Reith as Lord Merton has found happiness in his life and plans to keep it that way by staying out of any family drama.

Jones and James as the King and Queen are lovely and bring their own personal baggage to Downton Abbey. They prove that even royals have family issues and through it all a sense of humor as well. Moore as Chetwode protects the royal family but has a few secrets of his own. Haig as Mr. Wilson is a man I'd throw out on his ear if it wouldn't get me put in the Tower! Carey as Mrs. Webb would be in the pig mud right night to Mr. Wilson and to complete the threesome would be Spall as the royal chef. Those three brought enough aggravation and did it extremely well - kudos!

The return of Carter as Mr. Carson brought joy to every moment he is on screen. His presence, even when he is a bit frazzled, lets you know that everything will be alright. Right by his side is Logan as Mrs. Hughes. Never let it be said that this very elegant lady doesn't know how to take care of her position and life with Mr. Carson. Nicol as Mrs. Patmore is a character I see as the fire that is always keeping everyone warm. Food is one thing but the obvious caring she has for those around her comes through the screen. McShera as Daisy once again puts her foot in it and manages to not be concerned with how some people love traditions and pageantry.

James-Collier as Barrows has been in Mr. Carson's shoes for some time and isn't all that thrilled when he returns. So instead of dealing with it, which he never does very well, he once again finds destructive ways of handling things. Nothing he does surprises me! Doyle as Mr. Molesley is over excited and willing to put his teaching position on hold just to be in the same room as the King and Queen. Of course with this excitement comes the usual missteps that had me responding with a slap to my forehead. Fox returns as Andy who is in love with Daisy and discovers he might have a bit of a jealous streak in him.

My favorite couple ever in the entire series is Froggartt as lovely Mrs. Bates and Coyle as Mr. Bates. If there was ever a couple that went through everything horribly imaginable and came out the other side the same honorable people it is the Bates'. Froggartt is beautiful, sweet, gentle yet has a sarcastic side I love. Being the dresser for Lady Mary for years, she still wants to be at Downton Abbey and in the film gets her chance to show a side that is epic. Coyle as Mr. Bates has gone through the gambit if I do say so myself. Through it all his life has changed dramatically and yet he never once looked for an excuse for anything. That being said, planning what is planned for the staff at Downton Abbey, this husband and wife duo show they will fight for what they believe in and do it as they always have done it - together.

Now let's talk Maggie Smith as Violet - can it be said that she is the cherry on top of a very large and very ostentatious Downton Abbey cake? Well, she is on the one in my mind. Smith is sharp, witty, and doesn't take anything lightly. One moment she is watching everything and the next jumping in the fray to mix it up. Of course she wouldn't be able to do some of it with her partner-in-sort-of-crime Isobel. Wilton in her supporting friendship with Violet is the yin to her yang. When these two ladies get together you can be sure it will be hilarious and the repartee a feast for the mind.

Other cast include Raquel Cassidy as Miss Baxter, Kate Phillips as Princess Mary, Max Brown as Richard Ellis, Mark Addy as Mr. Bakewell, Michael Fox as Andy Parker, Susan Lynch as Miss Lawton, James Cartwright as Tony Sellick, Fifi Hart as Sybbie, Oliver & Zac Barker as George, Alice McCarthy as Nanny Harewood, Marina Balbara as Baroness Valerenay, Andrew Havill as Henry Lascelles, Eva & Karina Samms as Marigold, Diane Halling as Countess of Harrowby, and Perry Fitzpatrick as Chris Webster.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. There are film of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

The Bluray Includes the Bonus Features of Deleted Scenes, Cast Conversations - Exclusive roundtable interviews with the Upstairs and Downstairs Cast, The Royal Visit - A look at how the royal visit proved to be an ambitious event both on and behind the camera, True to the Twenties - Fans of DOWNTON ABBEY are charmed by the sheer grandeur of the aristocracy in the early 20th century. Learn how DOWNTON ABBEY maintains a reputation of being true to the time period. Welcome to Downtown Abbey - a behind-the-scenes look at the grandeur of HIGHCLERE Castle and how it serves as a cornerstone in the Downton Abbey franchise.

Also, The Brilliance of Julian Fellowes - Writer Julian Fellowes has created a story and beloved characters that resonate with people across the world. This piece celebrates Julian's brilliant creativity and reveals his approach to bringing Downton Abbey to the big screen. Downton Abbey Series Recap - Whether you're new or just need a refresher, this series recap will catch you up on the story so far and Feature Commentary with Director Michael Engler.

I discovered the series DOWNTON ABBEY completely by accident as it was on KPBS the same night as my other favorite The Great British Baking Show. It didn't take long before I became completely engrossed in the story of the families both upstairs and downstairs. I hated when the seasons ended and I broke out the tea set when the next season came around. Little did I know that the series was exploding all over the United States.

Created by writer Julian Fellowes, it aired in 2011 telling the story of Downton Abbey in the mid-1900s of a Yorkshire estate and the Crawley family but it also told the story of the servants. There was everything imaginable happening and the cast made every bit of it magical to watch for those of us who watched week after week. Downton Abbey is actually Highclere Castle in north Hampshire and although there was filming in Ealing Studios, most of it is Highclere Castle both inside and out.

Fellowes himself has had an amazing career as an actor, to launching his own series on BBC and writing a miniseries about the Titanic. He won an Oscar for Best Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen in 2002 for the script GOSFORD PARK and won Best Directorial Debut from the National Board of Review for SEPARATE LIES. His credit also include VANITY FAIR, THE TOURIST, FROM TIME TO TIME and one of my absolute favorite Emily Blunt films THE YOUNG VICTORIA.

DOWNTON ABBEY has become and I believe will continue to be an iconic series and now film for years to come. There is nothing that can hold a candle to it. In the four years since fans cried their eyes out at the television show finale, the film will not only make us forgive everything but thrill us once again. The story, the character, opulence, splendor, feistiness, heart, gumption, and so much more wrapped in a castle most of us know from a mere glance.

How does one thank Julian Fellowes for giving us just a little more of what we crave and an even bigger thank you to every original cast member that came back and made us feel like they didn't miss a beat. DOWNTON ABBEY is such a beautiful film in every way and I love period pieces of all kinds but this film has a special place in my heart because the characters.

This is not just a reunion of characters, but a reunion of us along with the characters we embraced back in 2011. We want to know they are all fine in the world of Downton Abbey and that it is possible (please let it be possible) that there might be another film to continue their story.

In the end - they've been expecting us!

The Thrill Returns Us to DOWNTON ABBEY

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatre this Friday from director Michael Engler and Focus Features from the characters created by Julian Fellowes is the return to DOWNTON ABBEY.

The Crawley family continues normal life at Downton Abbey until Robert (Hugh Bonneville), the Earl of Grantham, receives word that the King George V (Simon Jones) and Queen Mary (Geraldine James) are about to make a visit. Cora (Elizabeth McGovern) is thrilled but Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) goes into immediate panic especially with husband Henry (Matthew Goode) off on business. Barrows (Robert James-Collier) is now the head of the staff but Lady Mary feels as if things aren't getting done properly.

Bringing her concerns to Lord Grantham there is only one choice, ask a retired Mr. Carson (Jim Carter) to resume his duties as Downton Abbey until the visit is over and Barrows isn't happy. Mr. Carson gets the staff in order with Andy (Michael Fox) and the return of Mr. Molesley (Kevin Doyle). Mrs. Hughes (Phyllis Logan) also has her hands full as every nook and cranny must be cleaned and there isn't a lot of time. Mrs. Patmore (Lesley Nicol) and Daisy (Sophie McShera) begin creating a menu fit for royalty.

Violet Crawley (Maggie Smith) doesn't seem as nervous about the King and Queen's visit but is concerned about seeing relative Maud Bagshaw (Imedla Staunton). The Dowager believes that Maud is trying to cut Robert out of any inheritance since being seen about with her companion Lucy (Tuppence Middleton). Isobel (Penelope Wilton) agrees to help Violet discover the true story behind Maud's decision as husband Lord Merton (Douglas Reith) stays out of it.

Tom Branson (Allen Leech) is happy to be back at Downton Abbey and with his car business. When he learns about the King and Queen's visit, some think that perhaps he wouldn't be pleased out it. So much so that Mary senses something is wrong and isn't sure what to do. Up for the festivities is Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) and husband Bertie Hexham (Harry Hadden-Paton) as they make their way home.

With everything buzzing and plans being made, there is a damper on the happiness when the staff are told that they will not be handling the royal visit. Enter the very stuffy Kings manservant Mr. Wilson (David Haig), Queen's dresser Mrs. Webb (Richenda Carey) and royal chef Monsieur Courbet (Philippe Spall). Hardly ready to relinquishing their pride in Downton Abbey, Mrs. Bates (Joanne Froggatt) and Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle) come up with a plan that is brilliant and wonderful. Barrows is also being watched by Captain Chetwode (Stephen Moore) as being upset with Mr. Carson leads him down a bad road.

When the King and Queen finally arrive, the household is in high gear as the royal family is treated to dinner with a party to follow the next evening. That is when secrets are revealed, loyalties are tested and everyone who lives and works at Downton Abbey once again remembers how they have all come together for so long and can't imagine anything else.

Bonneville as the Earl of Grantham returns to his role as the leader of a family who go their own way no matter what he might say about it. This character has grown to understand that things change and if he doesn't then the Downton Abbey could fall at his feet. I adore Bonneville in this role because he has the facial expressions that say everything even if he says nothing. He clearly loves his family and what's more is he respects those who keep his household running.  McGovern as Cora is the American who has embraced the world she married into. When she is stern, it comes with a smile most often and when she is giddy her face lights up. Her character is the opposite of Robert which is why these two actors make such an awesome pairing.

Dockery as Lady Mary is such an unusual character because she gives off an air of superiority but when she lets her humanity and frailty show it is a sight for the heart to see. Carmichael as Lady Edith has finally found her niche in the world along with daughter Marigold. Now she needs to find the order of it all. Staunton as Bagshaw is a relative full of secrets and some in the family are going to make sure they know every little juicy detail. Middleton as Lucy has her own secrets but a certain Irishman only sees a lovely young girl.

Leech as Branson has become a character that was once on the outside looking in and now on the inside looking out. Finding the middle ground has always been such a difficult process for this character but now he seems to have found it. Happy with his business and equally happy at Downton Abbey, he carries himself with such grace and still finds humor in his adopted family. Goode as Henry just goes along to get along and is happy in his marriage to Lady Mary, I wish there would have been more of him but I'm thinking it will happen. Hadden-Patton as Hexam is being pulled away by a King who has taken a liking to him and Edith finds herself being meek about it once again. I kept thinking 'come on Edith, stand your ground!'. Reith as Lord Merton has found happiness in his life and plans to keep it that way by staying out of any family drama.

Jones and James as the King and Queen are lovely and bring their own personal baggage to Downton Abbey. They prove that even royals have family issues and through it all a sense of humor as well. Moore as Chetwode protects the royal family but has a few secrets of his own. Haig as Mr. Wilson is a man I'd throw out on his ear if it wouldn't get me put in the Tower! Carey as Mrs. Webb would be in the pig mud right night to Mr. Wilson and to complete the threesome would be Spall as the royal chef. Those three brought enough aggravation and did it extremely well - kudos!

The return of Carter as Mr. Carson brought joy to every moment he is on screen. His presence, even when he is a bit frazzled, lets you know that everything will be alright. Right by his side is Logan as Mrs. Hughes. Never let it be said that this very elegant lady doesn't know how to take care of her position and life with Mr. Carson. Nicol as Mrs. Patmore is a character I see as the fire that is always keeping everyone warm. Food is one thing but the obvious caring she has for those around her comes through the screen. McShera as Daisy once again puts her foot in it and manages to not be concerned with how some people love traditions and pageantry.

James-Collier as Barrows has been in Mr. Carson's shoes for some time and isn't all that thrilled when he returns. So instead of dealing with it, which he never does very well, he once again finds destructive ways of handling things. Nothing he does surprises me! Doyle as Mr. Molesley is over excited and willing to put his teaching position on hold just to be in the same room as the King and Queen. Of course with this excitement comes the usual missteps that had me responding with a slap to my forehead. Fox returns as Andy who is in love with Daisy and discovers he might have a bit of a jealous streak in him.

My favorite couple ever in the entire series is Froggartt as lovely Mrs. Bates and Coyle as Mr. Bates. If there was ever a couple that went through everything horribly imaginable and came out the other side the same honorable people it is the Bates'. Froggartt is beautiful, sweet, gentle yet has a sarcastic side I love. Being the dresser for Lady Mary for years, she still wants to be at Downton Abbey and in the film gets her chance to show a side that is epic. Coyle as Mr. Bates has gone through the gambit if I do say so myself. Through it all his life has changed dramatically and yet he never once looked for an excuse for anything. That being said, planning what is planned for the staff at Downton Abbey, this husband and wife duo show they will fight for what they believe in and do it as they always have done it - together.

Now let's talk Maggie Smith as Violet - can it be said that she is the cherry on top of a very large and very ostentatious Downton Abbey cake? Well, she is on the one in my mind. Smith is sharp, witty, and doesn't take anything lightly. One moment she is watching everything and the next jumping in the fray to mix it up. Of course she wouldn't be able to do some of it with her partner-in-sort-of-crime Isobel. Wilton in her supporting friendship with Violet is the yin to her yang. When these two ladies get together you can be sure it will be hilarious and the repartee a feast for the mind.

Other cast include Raquel Cassidy as Miss Baxter, Kate Phillips as Princess Mary, Max Brown as Richard Ellis, Mark Addy as Mr. Bakewell, Michael Fox as Andy Parker, Susan Lynch as Miss Lawton, James Cartwright as Tony Sellick, Fifi Hart as Sybbie, Oliver & Zac Barker as George, Alice McCarthy as Nanny Harewood, Marina Balbara as Baroness Valerenay, Andrew Havill as Henry Lascelles, Eva & Karina Samms as Marigold, Diane Halling as Countess of Harrowby, and Perry Fitzpatrick as Chris Webster.

I discovered the series DOWNTON ABBEY completely by accident as it was on KPBS the same night as my other favorite  The Great British Baking Show. It didn't take long before I became completely engrossed in the story of the families both upstairs and downstairs. I hated when the seasons ended and I broke out the tea set when the next season came around. Little did I know that the series was exploding all over the United States.

Created by writer Julian Fellowes, it aired in 2011 telling the story of Downton Abbey in the mid-1900s of a Yorkshire estate and the Crawley family but it also told the story of the servants. There was everything imaginable happening and the cast made every bit of it magical to watch for those of us who watched week after week. Downton Abbey is actually Highclere Castle in north Hampshire and although there was filming in Ealing Studios, most of it is Highclere Castle both inside and out.

Fellowes himself has had an amazing career as an actor, to launching his own series on BBC and writing a miniseries about the Titanic. He won an Oscar for Best Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen in 2002 for the script GOSFORD PARK and won Best Directorial Debut from the National Board of Review for SEPARATE LIES. His credit also include VANITY FAIR, THE TOURIST, FROM TIME TO TIME and one of my absolute favorite Emily Blunt films THE YOUNG VICTORIA.

DOWNTON ABBEY has become and I believe will continue to be an iconic series and now film for years to come. There is nothing that can hold a candle to it. In the four years since fans cried their eyes out at the television show finale, the film will not only make us forgive everything but thrill us once again. The story, the character, opulence, splendor, feistiness, heart, gumption, and so much more wrapped in a castle most of us know from a mere glance.

How does one thank Julian Fellowes for giving us just a little more of what we crave and an even bigger thank you to every original cast member that came back and made us feel like they didn't miss a beat. DOWNTON ABBEY is such a beautiful film in every way and I love period pieces of all kinds but this film has a special place in my heart because the characters.

This is not just a reunion of characters, but a reunion of us along with the characters we embraced back in 2011. We want to know they are all fine in the world of Downton Abbey and that it is possible (please let it be possible) that there might be another film to continue their story.

In the end - they've been expecting us!