Downton Abbey: A New Era Indeed

Downton Abbey returned in 2019 to expand its story and legacy with its first feature film. A success in every possible metric, Downton Abbey opened to $31 million domestically and finished with $192 million worldwide. This was all against a $13 million budget, which is as good a box office as anyone could’ve expected. Along with the huge box office success, critically, Downton Abbey also did well. A 64 Metascore and 84% on Rotten Tomatoes represents its success. Downton Abbey is on a very short list of television series that have successfully crossed over into film. Now, it is back with a sequel, Downton Abbey: A New Era. All of this success has come from its evolution as it continues to establish the rare achievement of Downton Abbey as a franchise. Much like the characters on the show, Downton Abbey has had to change to sustain itself. 

Downton has been praised for its thematic work. For subverting our expectations on what this show could/should be and offering much more. Ultimately, it is a huge part of the success of the series. One of the most directed and beloved shows in modern television, is completely shifting focus to find success in cinema. The very things Downton would subvert, are now at the forefront in the films. Gone are the weighty themes and attempts to do more with the plot. And here is a simple, satisfying and entertaining edition. A New Era is a crowd-pleasing good time that keeps everything light and allows us to enjoy the spectacle. While the series is great for what it has done, the movies are proving to be great as well, by simply being entertaining. 

A New Era continues the progression of Downton and the Crawley family. This time by bringing Hollywood to Downton. The simplicity of this plot rivals that of the first film and maintains the melodrama we’ve grown accustomed to. Robert questions whether he has a long-lost brother and travels to France to find out. However, this sidetrack and even the silent film, which later becomes a talkie, are just periphery for what makes this sequel special, its charm. 

With its gorgeous set decoration and costumes, A New Era is simply one of the more beautiful films you’ll see this year. Which backdrops where the charm is really coming from and its these beloved characters. The series did some painstaking work developing all of these characters and the films continue to pay off that work. We check in with all of the characters we love (minus Henry Talbot) and get to spend time with them, in a rather low stakes environment. This is how A New Era keeps it light. Mary’s flirting with the film’s director, to Mosely and Baxter’s engagement. Mrs. Patmore connects with Mr. Mason, and Barrow finally finds happiness. We get exactly what we came for, which is the characters we love, living a good life. That is the pinnacle of feel-good. 

Considering all that is going on in the world right now, a feel-good film is exactly what we need. A New Era pays off with its simplicity and it is such a welcomed choice. The heavier themes are unnecessary here. While Julian Fellowes could manage them well, differentiating the films from the series is working. The films are for catching up with old friends, seeing the sweeping shots of the Abbey and pure joy. A New Era captures all of that. It’s escapist entertainment at its finest. Low stakes, simple plots, great characters and wonderful moments. You find yourself lost in the world again. One of simplicity, elegance and love, which right now is the perfect place to be. 

Much like its predecessor, A New Era finds itself in a coveted and unique spot. It’s a hard film to critique. Mainly because the goals of these films are so obvious and overt. It’s about happiness and fan service. Plot means very little, so long as the characters continue to act natural to how they are. Julian Fellowes and director Simon Curtis create a beautiful film. One true to each of its characters and that its fans will love. Ultimately, that is the point of the new era of Downton. 

Anyone who isn’t a fan of the series won’t find much that is appealing here. There isn’t much exposition or resetting of characters. The actual story plays off previous knowledge and all of the major moments are what the fans have been waiting for. This unabashed focus on its core audience, with little regard to much else is impressive. Making a true feel-good film in a hypercritical era is impressive. Delivering so wonderfully for its fans is impressive. Downton Abbey: A New Era is truly impressive. For fans of this world and these people, we are in a new era with them. One that is beautiful, glamorous, lovely and utterly joyful.

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