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A review by gerhard
Downton Abbey: The Official Film Companion by Emma Marriott
5.0
WARNING: Do not read this before you see the movie, as it discusses the plot in a lot of detail.
I have always loved the companion books to the television series, as these give such insight into the socio-political context of the world that Julian Fellowes depicts so brilliantly in his writing. The movie companion is no different, with Emma Marriott examining all the real events that underpin the screenplay.
Each of the characters/actors get their own chapter, including those new specifically to the movie itself. Their role in the movie, and in the larger Downton Abbey multiverse, is placed under the spotlight. Marriott brings out the quirkiness and humanity of the actors, many who refer to being involved in this phenomenon as a career highlight.
Then there are also detailed sections about the actual making of the movie. Particularly fascinating is the insight into how the movie differs from the television show in terms of cinematography (yes, there are drone shots as well), and the recreation of all the well-known sets at Shepperton Studios, including a host of new ones. The magnificent work of the costume department is highlighted, along with a generous selection of stunning photographs.
I must say I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, which perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the television show. Julian Fellowes is a genius at such complex ensemble interplay, and he is firing on all cylinders here. Not only do all our favourite characters get their space to shine, but several stellar new ones are introduced as well.
Given the current state of political and economic flux in the world, it is perhaps no wonder that something as creakingly anachronistic as the Downton Abbey movie has done so well at the box office, immediately leading to speculation about a sequel. Yes, the world of privilege and aristocracy it depicts is itself on the cusp of change in 1927. But perhaps it is a guilty pleasure for many of us to get a glimpse at a world long-gone, where black and white are not nearly as grey as they are today.
I have always loved the companion books to the television series, as these give such insight into the socio-political context of the world that Julian Fellowes depicts so brilliantly in his writing. The movie companion is no different, with Emma Marriott examining all the real events that underpin the screenplay.
Each of the characters/actors get their own chapter, including those new specifically to the movie itself. Their role in the movie, and in the larger Downton Abbey multiverse, is placed under the spotlight. Marriott brings out the quirkiness and humanity of the actors, many who refer to being involved in this phenomenon as a career highlight.
Then there are also detailed sections about the actual making of the movie. Particularly fascinating is the insight into how the movie differs from the television show in terms of cinematography (yes, there are drone shots as well), and the recreation of all the well-known sets at Shepperton Studios, including a host of new ones. The magnificent work of the costume department is highlighted, along with a generous selection of stunning photographs.
I must say I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, which perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the television show. Julian Fellowes is a genius at such complex ensemble interplay, and he is firing on all cylinders here. Not only do all our favourite characters get their space to shine, but several stellar new ones are introduced as well.
Given the current state of political and economic flux in the world, it is perhaps no wonder that something as creakingly anachronistic as the Downton Abbey movie has done so well at the box office, immediately leading to speculation about a sequel. Yes, the world of privilege and aristocracy it depicts is itself on the cusp of change in 1927. But perhaps it is a guilty pleasure for many of us to get a glimpse at a world long-gone, where black and white are not nearly as grey as they are today.