Airing on KQED in 2010 here in the U.S. and running for five seasons, Downton Abbey is a show that is both classical and modern. Set in the early 1900s, the story follows the exploits of a British aristocratic family known as the Crawly's and their relationships with the staff who work on the glorious manor known as Downton Abbey. It's a show about family, loyalty, friendship, opportunity, and above all, class perception. The show was enjoyed by many, including myself, for its rich characters (no pun intended), witty dialogue, gorgeous set and costume design, and timely commentary on the nature of class disparity. It's a romantic depiction of how those who are more fortunate than others ought to be and what it truly takes to be happy in life. It is one of my favorite shows on par with the likes of Avatar: The Last Airbender and M*A*S*H. So, naturally, when I heard there was a movie coming out based on the show, I was, simultaneously, tremendously excited and very concerned.
While I was overjoyed at the prospect of seeing these characters in action again, I was somewhat surprised that it was to come in the form of a traditional feature film for the big screen. Most of the time, television-style of storytelling (especially British television) is tailored around smaller and more personal steaks. Stories that could either be easily told in less than an hour or grand arcs that span the course of an entire season, which usually requires ten episodes at minimum. Translating a TV show to the big screen requires typically one of two routes: Create an entirely new story explicitly tailored for the big screen (usually with a different cast) or treat the film as a feature-length finale of the series. The feature film presentation of Downton Abbey decides to take the latter approach and function as a fantastic conclusion of a well-crafted show. Resulting in a film that is relatively enjoyable for most audiences, but is ultimately aimed at those who have watched and enjoyed the series before the movie. It may not be like The Avengers where you won't understand most of the story if you haven't seen the stories prior, but having experienced the show first will give you a better appreciation for the feature-length finale.
The story takes place sometime after the events of the fifth and last season of the series. Things are relatively calm at Downton Abbey as everyone seems to have found their footing. However, things suddenly take an unexpected turn when news arrives that the King and Queen will be visiting Downton. Now everyone must prepare for a most delightful Royal visit like they've never experienced before.
And that's about all I can say without spoiling anything. Though, to be fair, that's about all the trailers and other promotional material has told about the movie.
As you might have surmised by now, the film plays less like a movie and more like a two-hour season finale of the TV show. That is in no way intended as an adverse criticism, but a compliment. The series has a signature style and wit about it that, were it absent from the film, would have made the proceedings feel out of touch with the shows charm. Those who have seen the show will feel right at home with the presentation of the film. While those who have not yet watched the show will have a different experience entirely.
If you plan on going straight into the movie without having seen the show prior, I can tell you right now that, while you will likely get a great deal of entertainment value from the writing and the performances, there will be smaller details sprinkled throughout the movie that may go right over your head. Characters occasionally mention events and other characters from the show that don't play a massive part in the film's story, but will add that little bit of texture to make the proceedings more engaging. One element, in particular, revolves around one of my favorite supporting characters named Tom Branson (Allen Leech) as an Irishman who married one of the Crowley's and goes through an engaging arc regarding his disagreement with the crown and his love for his in-laws. Again, you don't necessarily have to have watched the show to fully appreciate the film, but it will help.
While I can gladly recommend this film to fans of the show (speaking as one myself), I feel rather unfortunate that I cannot give the same to those who have not yet watched the series. While there is still a great deal of entertainment value to be had from the general presentation of the film, it is ideally aimed at fans of the show. I suppose you could simply look up the events of the series online, but I would personally recommend against that since it will not provide the same experience. If you're interested in this movie but have not yet seen the show, now might be a good time to get started. Last I checked, the complete series was available on various streaming services and on disk. If you haven't watched the show yet, I recommend doing so before seeing the movie. If you have seen the series, this is the grand finale you have been waiting for. Put on your best dinner clothes and have a ball. I know I did.
Is this movie worth seeing?
Mostly yes.
Is it worth seeing in theaters?
Maybe.
Why?
While fans of the show will be pleased, some may find its presentation a little too mellow, provided you are not familiar with the original series. My personal recommendation would be to watch the show first, then enjoy the film, and if that means waiting for a video release of the film, then so be it. It may be better enjoyed that way.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you all for reading.
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