"Downton Abbey: A New Era"

 

        I must confess, I have never seen an episode of the Downton Abbey TV show, nor the first film. However, after enjoying "The Gilded Age" on HBO,  created and written by Julien Fellowes who also created "Downton", I was intrigued by the trailer.

        After a quick primer by my wife, on the characters, I went into the film with an open mind.  And I have to say, it was quite enjoyable. Mr. Fellowes plays it safe with two subplots that split the family and servants between a film being shot at "Downton" and an inherited villa in the south of France.

         Everything is prim and proper, as is the English way, especially in the upper-class life of the early 1930's. Most, if not all of the familiar characters are back and a few new ones are introduced. Hugh Dancy is the movie director of the silent film, "The Gambler" being shot at "Downton". Dominic West and Laura Haddock are his stars. Problems arise when "The Jazz Singer" premieres and studios suddenly want "talkies".

         At the villa, Lord Grantham, played again by Hugh Bonneville, is faced with a potential scandal. But Mr. Fellowes is not interested in causing waves in a sea of familiarity. For the most part, there is a happy ending for almost everyone.  And how can you not love the fabulous costumes and scenic locations?

         Fans will enjoy the two hour loving embrace of their favorite characters but new fans, such as myself, will also enjoy the light drama and surprising fun as the Downton Abbey legacy continues.