Excitement for “Downton Abbey” Film Builds with the Release of New Photos
In 2016, popular period drama Downton Abbey aired its final episode, leaving fans 90 years earlier, on January 1, 1926. Now, as we welcome 2019 with open arms, so too will we have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the year 1927, where we will rejoin the series’ much-loved characters, this time on the big screen.
While much of the Downton Abbey film remains an exciting mystery, the recent release of several exclusive, first-look photos offers some indication of what’s to come.
Credit: Perfect World Pictures, Focus Features, Carnival Films
Now more mature and responsible, Lady Mary (Michelle Docker) will kiss her romantic scandals goodbye, instead settling in for the trials, challenges, and for the first time, stability of new motherhood. Now comfortably married to Henry Talbot (Matthew Goode), Mary, says Dockery, is finally preparing for some reprieve from “constant turmoil [in] her love life.”
Credit: Perfect World Pictures, Focus Features, Carnival Films
Far from a total reinvention, many of the best-loved conflicts of the Crawley family dynamic are expected to endure. Mary and her sister, Edith (Laura Carmichael), are set to clash just as delightfully as ever as Edith, now happy with husband Bertie (Harry Hadden-Paton), learns the expectations and protocols required of her newly elevated social standing.
Relishing in the changing world around him, Tom Branson (Allen Leech) might be the film’s chance at a romantic search as one of few remaining bachelors. Enjoying successful work in the automotive business with Henry, Tom is set to a modernizing society with gladness and open arms.
Credit: Perfect World Pictures, Focus Features, Carnival Films
When we last met with our friends at the Abbey, Carson (Jim Carter) was moving into retirement after having contracted “the palsy.” However, director Michael Engler promises that Carson will make his return.
Let’s just say his brief retirement has been very good for his health and when this event happens and all hands are needed on deck, he’s called into service and he becomes part of the success of the story.
Credit: Perfect World Pictures, Focus Features, Carnival Films
On several occasions, Maggie Smith has expressed her disinterest in participating in any sequel or extension of the Downton Abbey story, citing uncomfortable corsets and her character’s old age as reasons to move on. Eating her words, Smith will bring to life Violet, the beloved Dowager Countess, once more. As dry, witty, and absolutely entertaining as ever, Violet will serve as a reminder of Downton’s past and somewhat of a thematic symbol for the character-driven film.
One must have standards, but one must not be inflexible.” – Violet, the Dowager Countess
Hitting screens September 20, 2019, the Downton Abbey film, according to Dockery, will combine “remarkable” sets, costumes, and centrally well-loved characters to create a Downton that, while wonderfully familiar, is “grander” than ever before.
