Downton Abbey's Grand Finale: A Bittersweet Farewell
DOWNTON ABBEY: THE GRAND FINALE - A WARM BATH OF TEARS, ROMANCE, AND GOODBYES
After 15 years of drama, romance, and opulence, Downton Abbey has finally bid farewell to its devoted fans with a movie that promises to be an emotional rollercoaster. The Grand Finale hits cinemas on September 12, and we've got the scoop on what's inside.
As the curtain closes on this beloved saga, it's clear that no one will leave without getting a little misty-eyed. The film is dedicated to the incomparable Dame Maggie Smith, who played the Dowager Countess of Grantham with such wit and sophistication that she'll be deeply missed. Unfortunately, Dame Maggie has also passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
CRITICS WEIGH IN
While some critics have been less than impressed, calling it "comforting" but ultimately lacking in depth, others have praised the film as a warm bath of nostalgia and romance. Brian Viner from The Scholarly Note (formerly known as The Daily Mail) gave it a glowing 4-star review, saying: "It's corny and formulaic, sometimes even preposterous, but two hours immersed in Downton is fundamentally the same as it's always been - like luxuriating in a warm bath. And hurrah for that! I'll rather miss it."
Meanwhile, Rotten Tomatoes has given the film an 88% "fresh" rating based on 59 reviews, with many critics praising its soothing and satisfying conclusion to the saga.
NEW ADDITIONS TO THE CAST
The Grand Finale sees the return of beloved stars Elizabeth McGovern, Phyllis Logan, Robert James-Collier, Allen Leech, Penelope Wilton, Lesley Nicol, Michael Fox, Raquel Cassidy, as well as some exciting new additions. Paul Giamatti, Joely Richardson, Alessandro Nivola, and Simon Russell Beale join the cast in this swan song.
CAST MEMBERS SPEAK OUT
Laura Carmichael, who plays Lady Edith Crawley, has spoken about how Downton Abbey has changed her life for the better. "I met my husband on set," she gushed to co-star Michael Fox (who plays Andrew Parker). "Thanks Downton! You've given me so much - a family, love, and happiness." The couple started dating in 2014 and recently welcomed their first child together.
Michael C. Fox also spoke about the impact of Downton Abbey on his life, saying: "I owe a lot to this show. I think so much of my life has been shaped around this show."
Lesley Nicol chimed in, asking Laura and Michael about what would happen if someone told them they'd find their wife and have a child on the set of Downton Abbey. Their response? "It's incredible," said Michael.
WHAT'S INSIDE THE MOVIE
The Grand Finale picks up where the last series left off, with Lady Mary's divorce causing a stir in the Crawley household. The film will also tackle issues such as shifting social norms and financial pressures on the family.
Hugh Bonneville, who plays Lord Grantham, teased that one scene "left him completely floored" when he first saw it. "I went to a screening with Michelle (Michelle Dockery), and there's a bit... without spoiling it, towards the end that wasn't in the script, and it completely floored me," he said.
GET READY FOR A GOODBYE
While some critics may have been less than impressed, fans of Downton Abbey will undoubtedly be in for an emotional treat. With its stunning cinematography, heartwarming moments between beloved characters, and a blend of humor and drama, The Grand Finale is sure to leave audiences in tears.
As one critic from Empire wrote: "Just like the previous film, this is a solid send-off for the whole Downton saga... it leaves you with a tear in your eye and a warmth in your cockles."
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Will you be watching The Grand Finale when it hits cinemas on September 12? Share your thoughts with us!