Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG) ★★★★TV & Film

They say that all good things must come to an end, and this is undoubtedly true for Downton Abbey. This farewell is accompanied by a deep sense of loss, particularly because my favorite actor, Dame Maggie Smith, as she was a remarkable scene-stealer. Her sharp wit as the Dowager Countess Violet Crawley is something I will always cherish. Tragically, she has passed away and is lovingly remembered through a beautiful portrait that hangs in the main entrance of the castle. In the trailer, you can even see Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery), with tears in her eyes as she gazes at the portrait, paying tribute to her late grandmother, and the camera pans over her during the film.

After fifteen years, six television seasons, and three movies, the time has finally come to say goodbye. The “Downton Abbey” films are a standard carryover of Julian Fellowes’ admired PBS drama series. They are also the same style, with a longer running time and a more robust ensemble of guest stars. The “Downton Abbey” films are essentially extended episodes of the show, covering condensed topics that may be challenging to follow without prior familiarity with the source material. Yes, “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” doesn’t have the emotional complexities of its two predecessors, although its straightforward sincerity, its authenticity and honesty, is apparent.

 “The Grand Finale“ primarily focuses on the aftermath of Mary’s divorce from Henry, a situation that is far from typical for someone in her position. As a result, she is banished immediately from London society. She attempts to seek solace in her familiar Yorkshire, although snobbery does raise its ugly head. The setting is shortly after the events of “Downton Abbey: A New Era.”

Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), whose husband is Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville), is shown grieving over his mother’s death. He questions his place in the world and has dedicated his life to upholding his role, resisting Cora’s gentle guidance to relax, as it’s his time to unwind. We also learn that Cora’s mother passed away, although this happens off-screen in between the two Downton Abby films. She was hoping that her inheritance would cover the construction that is dearly needed on the estate. Cora is in disbelief when Harold Levinson (Paul Giamatti), who plays her brother, delivers the bad news that their financial outlook is poor. We view Harold bringing in his shady financial advisor, Gus Sambrook (Alessandro Nivola), to explain his poor business dealings. We also discovered that Harold has mismanaged the family funds.

 What I especially appreciated is that each member of the cast has on-screen time so that they, as well as fans, can say their goodbyes. We stay in the present and don’t digress to the past, allowing time to soak in all the events of the time and to say goodbye to the beloved Downton cast that’s featured. We see key events like World War I, the Spanish flu, and the film succeeds in recapturing some of the fun of the show’s early days as it wraps up storylines for over a dozen characters.

 “The Grand Finale“ is a guilty pleasure to view and a victory for the franchise and all its characters we’ve grown to love. It sure is great to revisit characters we’ve become fond of, and the special scenery, and of course that gorgeous castle. Above all else, it’s lots of pure fun to spend another few hours in this delightful world.

Here’s the schedule for the release of “Downton Abbey the Grand Finale.” Tune in to NBC September 9^th to view the special “Downton Abbey Celebrates the Grand Finale,” with the cast members. The movie will begin streaming on Peacock, September 10. The film will be available in theaters September 12.

Side Note: The movies were filmed on location at Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England. The castle is currently the private residence for the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, although certain parts are open to the public at different times of the year.

Director: Simon Curtis I’ve interviewed him twice for his movies, “Goodbye Christopher Robin” and “The Woman in Gold”

*Julian Fellowes is a multi-award–winning actor, writer, director and producer. As creator, sole writer and executive producer of the hit television series Downton Abbey, Fellowes has won three Emmy awards and a Golden Globe.

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