Absolutely loved 'Downton Abbey' throughout its run and still do when watching repeats, so well made, written and acted (how could it not be with that cast) and not too demanding. It was always one of my most-anticipated programmes every year with each season and more often than not was a yearly highlight. Hearing that there was a film coming out, a large part of me leapt for joy and couldn't wait to see it. Decided though to wait until it was available either online or on DVD, with it not being in cinemas long and being shown at inaccessible times and places.
Finally watching it recently with family, also fans, for me it was impressive, polished and very entertaining but a little disappointing at the same time. It is a perfect piece of escapism, so easy to watch, leaves one entertained and charmed and does an awful lot right. If it was a little longer, slowed down and tried to not cram in as much as it did, 'Downton Abbey' would have been even better than it turned out to be.
It did feel on the rushed and jumpy side. As a result of being the opposite of too slight (which was what was feared, being worried as to whether the show would lend itself well to feature film). In that the film tried to cram in too much, with too many subplots and characters.
Like some others, it did feel like a season's worth of storylines crammed into a two hour film, indicative perhaps of it needing to be 15 minutes longer or two films. Some may not agree but that's my stance.
'Downton Abbey' looks great though, very sumptuous and clearly done with a lot of polish. Reminding me of what makes me love period dramas so much. Downton looks imposing and a feast for the eyes, like its own character, and its elegant interiors brings back fond memories of visiting national trusts. The photography is beautifully framed, the costumes evocative of its period and the scenery takes the breath away. The music avoids over-scoring and intrusion and the hypnotic main theme hasn't lost any of its magic. The direction is controlled and doesn't feel too television bound, opening up the drama enough.
Writing is witty and heart-warming, the disdainful put-downs from Violet really standing out. The story is never dull and does compel, entertain and warm the heart, despite being over-crowded. The cast are pretty much blameless, complete with all the original cast and a few worthy additions, with Maggie Smith stealing all of her scenes especially. Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern and Michelle Dockery (still looking beautiful) are still great and the servants are all played with great gusto and charm. Phyllis Logan standing out.
Overall, not great but very nice escapist entertainment that is impeccably acted and handsomely mounted. 7/10
