Downton Abbey ran on American television from 2011 to December 25, 2015 and to say it possessed a passionate following is one of pop culture’s great understatements. Therefore, when it was announced that creator Julian Fellowes was bringing his roaring twenties-set British stalwart to the silver screen, anticipation ran high. Now, everyone can witness its majestic majesty on Blu-Ray, DVD and digital download formats.
The trick for Fellowes was to present a cinematic experience that would resonate equally among Abbey fanatics and those who are completely new to the entire landscape. With the help of my wife (who has seen every single episode and we watched the Blu-Ray together), I was able to discern that this newbie to the Downton world had as much beautifully blissful moments witnessing Fellowes cast of characters and their goings-on as she did and the culmination of everything she’s witnessed.
That is priceless, and might I add, the thinnest of needles to thread for any storyteller.
Downton Abbey chronicles the Crawley family—12 months post the events of the series’ finale. They prestigious family, and their beloved support staff, got a bit of news in the post and its contents are rocking the Abbey. The Royal Family is coming for a visit and it’s all hands on deck, including a certain someone who had “retired!”
What a fantastic premise for bringing a beloved show to the silver screen. I mean, how much bigger and more compelling could a storyline be than to have the Royals descending on the beloved Downton Abbey. The effort that it would take to host the King and Queen of England would be epic and force every single soul associated with the building, its grounds, the family who resides there … everyone to be on the same page because there cannot be any bigger of a moment for any single person there. Can you think of anything larger for Fellowes to paint his cast and crew into? I’ll give you a few minutes … !
As was the case with the television program, the acting is top notch and rich with veterans of the British school of acting … you know the one that is the life of a UK actor that involves being ready for anything—television, film and stage. With that background, it should hardly surprise that the entire ensemble effortlessly leaps from the small screen to the large screen. Inherent in the nature that is this plot line, stress and excitement work hand in hand. Nothing tests the mettle of a group as much as that.
And without giving anything away, let’s just say this … the bonding nature of the Royal visit has this newbie to the Downton world ready for a sequel. I cannot imagine where Fellowes would take his merry band of aristocrats and those employed to help them. It’s just after a visit from the King and Queen of the (former … wink, wink!) empire—the future plot possibilities are endless for Fellowes and his creative team. Ever up for a challenge, i.e. making this movie in the first place, I’m sure the writer-creator is himself excited at the possibilities for “what’s next” for Downton Abbey.
One of the best bonus features is Cast Conversations. After witnessing everything they went through from pilot to triumphant motion picture, hearing from the ensemble and where they are, headspace-wise, is nothing short of brilliantly fascinating. Each contributes much and there is not a shy soul in the bunch, and that is a very good thing. Basking in their glow of pride from bringing their show to the masses via the most widespread medium for that very thing is the most joyous of endeavors.
There are deleted scenes that serve an interesting purpose for this writer. Getting inside the head of Fellowes is a priceless opportunity. Seeing what he chose to cut from the overall arc and completeness of Downton Abbey is enlightening, to say the least.
Since those big to-do’s are the focus of the events of Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture, The Royal Visit is a fantastic featurette that illustrates my very point: The word ambitious comes to mind for how all involved were tasked to bring their A-game and through this Blu-Ray extra, it gets impeccably explored how this seismic event in the world of Abbey forced all to rock the house in ways they never had prior.
I loved the look of the film, and the tone, and it is about as pure of a salute to the Roaring Twenties as I’ve seen on screen in some time. True to the Twenties shows exactly how that was achieved from numerous points of view.
Longtime fans, especially, will appreciate Welcome to Downton Abbey, the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at the splendor of Highclere Castle and how it is essentially another member of the ensemble and what it is that makes it so special for those who have spent quite a bit of time there over the last several years.
The Brilliance of Julian Fellowes firmly puts the spotlight exactly where it should be—on Fellowes. This featurette is a tribute to a genius working exquisitely in a manner that has millions upon millions enamored of his storytelling gifts.
For those who are new to the global sensation, Downton Abbey Series Recap is an awesome and speedy look at the series for those who do not want to go into the flick a little more informed.
Lastly, with future viewings, turn on the feature commentary by director Michael Engler. His insight into the filmmaking process, working with Fellowes and this esteemed ensemble, the pressure to get it right and above all else—how one silences the doubt devils working in one’s head.
Film Grade: B+
Bonus Features: B+