Revisit the Goodbye with DOWNTON ABBEY: The Grand Finale

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K UHD, Bluray and currently on Digital from director Simon Curtis, Focus Features and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment 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.

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.

Bonus Features include Changing Times, Society Season – Lady Petersfield’s Ball, Ascot Race and the Country Show, Authentic to the Core, A Farewell to Fans, DOWNTON ABBEY Celebrates The Grand Finale and Feature Commentary with Director Simon Curtis and Actress Elizabeth McGovern.

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 credits rolled on my television screen. It was an extraordinary experience and, I will remember it. Or, in the words of the beloved and iconic 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!

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.

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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!

THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN is Tissue Worthy

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from director Simon Curtis and 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment is the world through a dogs eyes who knows THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN.

Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia) is an up and coming race car driver who finds himself falling head over heels for a four legged furry Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner). This is Enzo telling the story of their meeting and life together. Finding himself drawn to Denny's world of racing, Enzo can't get enough of everything they do.

That is until schoolteacher Eve (Amanda Seyfried) comes into the picture! Enzo isn't exactly thrilled with the change in Denny and having to share what he considers a perfect life with a third person. Eventually a fourth person in the form of Zoe (Ryan Armstrong) arrives and Enzo realizes that he has enough love for everyone and becomes Zoe's protector.

Through the years Denny supports his family racing and is away occasionally and Eve is watched over by Enzo. That is when he senses that something is wrong with Eve but there isn't any way to make Denny aware of it. On a walk, Eve collapses and Enzo has to use the only voice he has to get help.

Now Denny and Zoe are finding their stride while Eve is in hospital. There is backup by Eve's judgmental father Maxwell (Martin Donovan) and doting mother Trish (Kathy Baker). Helping with Zoe, Denny stops going out on the road and returns to the track teaching for boss Don (Gary Cole). The goal of everyone is to make sure Eve is comfortable and Enzo keeps a very close eye nightly.

When things turn tragic, Denny is pit up against Eve's father and Enzo wants to make it clear that he knows what's happening. When Maxwell oversteps his bounds and Denny reacts, it starts a chain of pain for everyone including Zoe and Enzo isn't about to allow anything to happen to his family.

Ventimiglia as Denny is a man who knows exactly how he wants to spend his life - behind the wheel of a very fast car. Everyone believes he is magical at his job and even the woman he marries is supportive (not so much the daddy dearest father-in-law). This is a role that Ventimiglia is becoming known for with his ability to be the trusted emotional support for everyone around him even if his world is falling apart. The combination of Denny and Enzo is beautiful.

Seyfried as Eve accepts that her husband just loves to be behind the wheel, although she might not understand it, there is nothing more important to her than Denny's success. It's nice to see that supportiveness from them both actually as conflict seems to permeate films with couples in them lately. These two are just want each other to be happy and Seyfried does that - until her character can't.

Baker as Mom Trish is the more relaxed of the couple and lets it be known that he likes Denny even if she is nervous about his chosen profession. Donovan as Maxwell is that one character that I can't help but curl my lip up at. He is judgmental and finds any opportunity to make Denny uncomfortable as a husband and father. It takes a lot for me to not like a character and Donovan does his job well. Cole as Don just has a presence that I have always enjoyed. From comedy, to drama to being a bad guy, he also makes playing a good guy pretty dang awesome.

Now, Costner as the voice of Enzo the dog - can I just say I absolutely adored it. He had the ability to make me believe I was listening, well, to a dog! I loved the way he spoke, his description of life, the people in it and when being naught I found myself cheering him/Enzo on. So well done and made me tear up on more than one occasion, especially "one more lap" (you'll see, have tissue at the ready!)

Other cast include Lily Dodsworth-Evans as Teenage Zoe, Al Sapienza as Luca Pantoni, McKinely Belcher III as Mark Finn, Ian Lake as Uncle Mike and Andres Joseph as Tony.

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.fox.com.

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The Bluray Special Features Include  A Journey to Screen, Directing the Art, Enzo Cam, Behind the Wheel, The Dog Stays in the Picture, Enzo's First Ride and Audio Commentary by Director Simon Curtis.

There are a lot of films about dogs in the last few years and there are some very heart-warming ones. THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN just had me feeling almost every range of human or dog emotions possible. I loved Enzo as a puppy immediately but it becomes clearer and clearer with Costner's help that he is no ordinary dog. Enzo is a thinker and breaks it all down as he waits to become, like Pinocchio, human.

He knows his racing first of all which I thought was pretty cool but he also knows so much more and realizes that he grows emotionally because he sees something for his future. I think what really got me was his description of Eve's leaving when he said "I know because I saw it" and I lost it.

The cast had their role to play as well of a family dealing with love, marriage, family, death, anger and acceptance of putting one step in front of the other to keep life in front of them all. There is so much for the family to experience with this film and it is my heartfelt hope that they see it together and talk about it all after.

In the end - meet the dog who shoes the world how to be human!