DOWNTON ABBEY

Director: Michael Engler

UK, 122, PG-13

Screenwriter: Julian Fellowes, based on his TV series.

Cast: Michelle Dockery, Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Laura Carmichael.

 

Bring out the canapés and champagne! The well-loved television series that delighted viewers with its secrets, love affairs, gorgeous costumes – and a certain droll countess is back, this time on the big screen. It’s 1927, and the majority of the characters are present and able. But the outrageous perfection can’t last, as the household learns that the King and Queen are planning a royal visit, complete with their snooty, untrustworthy servants. To list all of the great actors is impossible, so we’ll just send a shout out to a few favorites: Michelle Dockery, Maggie Smith, Alan Leech, Lesley Nicolè (the lovely Mrs. Patmore), Sophia McShera, Laura Carmichael and so many, many more.

“I happily lapped up every minute. Nice to see you back, Downton; this fan missed you.” Moira MacDonald, Seattle Times.