ITV1 have truly excelled themselves with the new period drama 'Downton Abbey' which previewed in October. The series writer Julian Fellows does not disappoint with the gripping tale of an aristocratic family on the verge of dramatic change. Of course, the presence of conniving servants, sisters battling for male attention, the numerous lies and deception, a secret murder, and not forgetting Dame Maggie Smith's performance as Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham (similar to her role in 'Gosford Park'), and the leading all-star cast, all play a part in the success of the show. What other factors are missing in the costume drama? A reliable and effective plot which keeps the audience captivated? ... This is certainly what Fellows provides, and more.
Set in 1912, the series focuses around the Crawley family and the drama that occurs within their lives. In historical context, at this time, England was on the very brink of enormous change, which is the underlying message interwoven within the plot. Amendments are being made to old traditions, namely women's rights, and the comfort of Edwardian aristocracy is about to be shaken.
Lady Sybill Crawley (pictured above), played by Jessica Brown Findlay, is personally one of my favourite characters in the series. Sybill, one of the three daughters of the Earl of Grantham, played by Hugh Bonneville, is a woman searching for more and relishes the imminent change that is about to effect society. Although, she is one of the Ladies of the house, she helps one of her servants on her voyage to a better life by acquiring a better job as a secretary. Her feisty, charismatic charm and the aspects of feminism that she displays, is something that I myself admire; a strong woman who ultimately believes that her abilities are endless.
The final episode of 'Downton Abbey' takes an essential pivot when, the Countess of Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern) slips on a bar of soap which had slyly been placed next to her bath by her maid, O'Brien. The Countess was pregnant with a boy who would become the heir, and in turn, briefly threatened Matthew Crawley's fortune. Matthew came to Downton Abbey as a suitor for Lady Mary, so that this opulent fortune would stay within the family. Surely, due to the Countess losing her baby in the tragic soap-slip, the viewers would get the ending of perfection they hoped for with a beautiful Edwardian wedding, the matrimony of Lady Mary and Matthew Crawley?. Of course not! Fellows as unpredictable as ever, turns the tables with Matthew withdrawing his proposal of marriage.
The finale episode of 'Downton Abbey' personally left me wanting to know more and having numerous unanswered questions. Will Lady Edith and Sir Anthony Strallan end up married? Will Lady Mary's murderous secret be revealed to her father, the Earl of Grantham? Will Anne and John Bates finally be together? ... And, what is in store for the inhabitants of Downton Abbey next?
I cannot wait for the premiere of the second series, Fellows' costume drama has no doubt been one of my favourite television shows of 2010.
Second series filming is said to be taking place in March 2011 ... The mystery awaits.
"In these moments, you can always find an Italian who isn't too picky".
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