Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale review – A pleasant stroll with characters you know and love

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A star rating of 3 out of 5.

In an effort to conclude one of the beloved British cultural phenomena, Downton Abbey: The Final Episode, could potentially take on a somewhat melancholic or somber tone, if I may use a colloquial expression.

Initially, the demise of Lady Violet Crawley at the end of the previous movie inevitably meant losing one of Julian Fellowes’ most potent tools – her sharp wit and biting remarks. However, her portrait remains prominently displayed in Downton’s grand foyer. This film concludes with a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable actress, Dame Maggie Smith, who portrayed her, following her passing last year.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I found myself watching this third installment of the beloved series, seamlessly continuing from the long-lived TV show. With its slightly softened yet comfortably familiar tone, it’s clear that this film carries a significant responsibility on its shoulders.

Change is in the air, as Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) and her divorce stir up a whirlwind of controversy within high society. Lady Mary comments, “For families like ours to thrive, we must adapt.” Simultaneously, Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) and Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern) consider the prospect of selling the grand Downton estate. Lord Grantham reflects, “We’ve fulfilled our duties; I’ve dedicated half my life to Downton Abbey.” One can only guess that creator Julian Fellowes shares a similar sentiment.

Fortunately, the movie manages to avoid excessive sentimentality, instead introducing some refreshing new characters. One of them is Alessandro Nivola’s charming American character, Gus Sambrook, who is acquainted with Lady Grantham’s brother, Harold (played by Paul Giamatti). Another character is the pompous local Sir Hector Moreland, portrayed brilliantly by Simon Russell Beale, who seems to be enjoying himself immensely in this role.

Additionally, there’s an interaction with renowned playwright Noël Coward (portrayed as Arty Froushan), whose popularity soars at Downton following his visit. It should be noted that although the theory about how he conceived the title for one of his most celebrated plays might seem far-fetched, it is still presented here.

As Lady Violet remains fixed in her beautifully arranged portrait, there’s still a touch of humor that persists, like the hilarious moment when Lord Grantham inspects a prospective new home, a flat seemingly just a stone’s throw away from the Royal Albert Hall, only to learn that residents will live both above and below him, leaving him quite taken aback.

Director Simon Curtis, having overseen 2022’s sun-kissed Downton Abbey: A New Era, doesn’t hold back on glamour. Right from the start, when even Piccadilly Circus appears romantic, to the mandatory shots sweeping over Downton and a scene at Ascot during The Gold Cup race – where the characters are attending – he leaves no stone unturned in delivering opulence.

The costumes designed by Anna Robbins, encompassing both elegant gowns and smart tuxedos, as well as sparkling jewelry, beautifully capture the essence of the era, instantly whisking you away into that time period.

In this diverse cast, some characters might not receive as much attention as others. For instance, Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael) seems to be underdeveloped in this episode, similar to how Carson (Jim Carter), the loyal butler of Downton, doesn’t stand out as much as he has in past performances. However, his quip, “London did me in,” is sure to bring a grin.

Without a doubt, Fellowes’ script may not be among the very best, but it’s extremely challenging to find a fitting end for a cherished series like Downton Abbey.

In addition, you’ll find references to characters who were once here but still linger in our memories, even though the feelings of nostalgia aren’t overly emotional. At one moment, Bonneville’s character utters a line from T.S. Eliot’s poem The Hollow Men: “This is how the world ends; not with an explosion, but with a quiet whimper.

Instead of stating that the final movie ends softly, which might not be entirely accurate, let me rephrase it for a more engaging read: While this closing film doesn’t deliver the spectacular finish suggested by its title, it provides an enjoyable walk down memory lane with familiar and beloved characters, rather than a grand finale.

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2025-09-09 16:04