“Downton Abbey: A New Era” is still very much a “for fans only” affair; one that throws viewers right back into the deep end when it comes to the soapy lives of the Crawley family and their loyal servants. But “A New Era” is both more focused and more substantial than the first 'Downton' film, which makes it especially satisfying to step back into its cozily rose-colored, slightly ridiculous take on early 20th century England. FOX film critic Caroline Siede reviews the latest return to a TV favorite.
). And though much of "A New Era" is as fizzy as a summer cocktail, Violet’s declining health provides a ticking time clock that gives the frothy story some emotional heft as well. There are flaws here too, to be sure, even by "Downton" standards. Though Robert James-Collier’s scheming-footman-turned-loyal-butler Thomas Barrow nearly stole the first film with a moving storyline about queer discovery, he gets an overly rushed arc this time around, which is disappointing.
But while the first film largely petered out in its climax, "A New Era" gets better as it goes along, as its lighthearted throughlines give way to a surprisingly poignant celebration of the show’s legacy. The power of any long-running franchise comes from how much time its viewers have spent living with its characters.
Penelope Wilton stars as Isobel Merton and Maggie Smith as Violet Grantham in DOWNTON ABBEY: A New Era, a Focus Features release. Credit: Ben Blackall / ©2022 Focus Features LLCIn fact, you may even shed a tear or two as the Crawleys reflect on those they’ve loved and lost over the years, while noting that the power of family lineage comes from the way it carries on even as individual members come and go — a theme that speaks to both aristocracy and long-running franchises alike.
For all its prestigious trappings, "Downton Abbey" has always first and foremost been comfort viewing. And "A New Era" plays to that strength. It may not be game-changing cinema, but it has a charmingly old-fashioned earnestness that’s a perfect match for its charmingly old-fashioned characters.
Deutschland Neuesten Nachrichten, Deutschland Schlagzeilen
Similar News:Sie können auch ähnliche Nachrichten wie diese lesen, die wir aus anderen Nachrichtenquellen gesammelt haben.
‘Downton Abbey: A New Era’ Debuts With $1M In Thursday PreviewsHighly anticipated Downton Abbey: A New Era made $1.050 million in Thursday previews that began at 7 p.m. at more than 3,800 theaters. It is Focus Features’ widest ever U.S. release and one that co…
Weiterlesen »
Movie Review: Downton Abbey: A New EraMOVIE REVIEW: The small-screen stately manor of Downton Abbey still can't fill the big screen.
Weiterlesen »
Review: Even death can't spoil the classist cheerfulness of 'Downton Abbey: A New Era'An on-location film shoot and a trip to the South of France lie in store for the Crawleys in a 'Downton Abbey' sequel that cheerily upholds the aristocratic status quo.
Weiterlesen »
‘Downton Abbey’ Masterminds See Future for Franchise Beyond New SequelWhen “Downton Abbey: The New Era” arrives in U.S. theaters this week, it will represent just the latest iteration of a franchise more than a decade in operation. Julian Fellowes, the Em…
Weiterlesen »
The New Downton Abbey Movie Gives Us What the First One Didn’tA New Era provides the consummation for which many of us have devoutly wished.
Weiterlesen »