The story
The much-anticipated cinematic return of the global phenomenon reunites the beloved cast in 1928 as they go on a grand journey to the South of France to uncover the mystery of the Dowager Countess’ (Maggie Smith) newly inherited villa while, back at Downton, a film crew has descended on the estate to shoot a movie.
With the house full of attention seeking movie stars including Guy Dexter (Dominic West) and Myrna Dalgleish (Laura Haddock), extras and a lustful director (Hugh Dancy), Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) takes charge with her clipped voice and solid, organised ways.
The trailer
The verdict
In this movie the divide between upstairs – downstairs seem to increasingly blur and some of the staff have now become more outspoken with their employers, and at the end of the story they even play the roles of their bosses in the movie that is filmed at Downton.
What was really stunning about this film is the 1920s fashion. My eyes were glued to the screen eagerly awaiting more dresses and costumes at every scene.
Alongside fashion, I loved John Lunn’s magnificent soundtrack to Downton Abbey: A New Era released by Decca Records.
The soundtrack retains the distinctive sweeping orchestration and title motifs from the multiple Emmy Award-winning series whilst celebrating the story’s entrance to a new decade with 1930s swinging Jazz and embracing the glitz of early cinema. The album embraces the exciting new generation of UK Jazz/Soul artists, featuring award-winning British Jazz and Soul singer Cherise Adams-Burnett, whose honeyed voice shines on tracks Crazy Rhythm and Am I Blue. Cherise also features in the film, performing the tracks from the soundtrack.
Lunn’s music possesses a wonderfully unique voice that spans a broad spectrum of musical styles. Classically trained yet contemporary in attitude, he combines a highly intelligent and sensitive approach with a sound that always hits at the emotional heart of a piece.
London Mums’ magazine rating: 6/10
