Downton Abbey Review: Downton Abbey is to be graced by the most distinguished guests in England – the King and Queen. Naturally, this creates a lot of buzz, both within the manor’s decked halls and in the community at large. If that wasn’t enough pressure, the royal visitors bring their own staff to Downton. This sets the stage for a lot of friction, as everyone either seeks to make an impression during this event, or further their own agendas.
The film, like the TV series, continues to indulge in the complexities of social politics. It also explores how society has evolved over the years, and yet, is still the same in so many ways. Admittedly, there's a fair amount of fan service guaranteed to enthral the show’s enthusiasts, but the screenplay is deftly crafted to keep even the most casual viewers engaged for most of the film. The clash between the Downton and royal staff becomes the centrepiece of the narrative, while numerous other subplots are woven around this occasion. The screenplay also allows other vital issues to be addressed, such as the plight of gay men, and women empowerment. This leads to some beloved characters getting more screen time than others. Maggie Smith is delightful as Violet Crawley, the matriarch of the family whose age hasn't dulled her sharp wit. Her snappy banter with new character Maud Bagshaw (Imelda Staunton) is a treat. Other key members of the ensemble cast hold up their end of the bargain as well.
Naturally, the narrative arc within the film is restricted to its runtime, but that doesn’t stop director Michael Engler from making the most of it, by reviving the tensions and romantic elements of the series. A lot of the confrontations and clashes are addressed within the boundaries of the film, but they potentially open doors for subsequent character development, should the franchise continue. Combined with impeccable costume design, attention to production details, and dreamy cinematography, ‘Downton Abbey’ is a treat for fans of the series who will thoroughly enjoy this big-screen version.
No comments:
Post a Comment