It's imported. And a bit dated. But it is magical in its own stuffy, aristocratic sort of way.
I'm talking Downton Abbey and I am totally hooked. TOTALLY. HOOKED.
Have you watched it? Are you addicted? Do you love it or are you bored? If you are bored than I invite you to watch it with me on my iPad (yes, we will have to cuddle) because I will be happy to point out to you all of the drama and intrigue that make this a Masterpiece classic!
First off, the British are an angsty lot. I love the tension between tradition and innovation. This is what drives the show along. Like my mom said, this is almost a British version of Fiddler on the Roof. Oh, if only it were a musical!
The storyline of Matthew and Mary is so fabulous. She started out so prideful and arrogant but now we are beginning to see her softer side, the side that loves Matthew more than she loves herself. Yet they are destined to be apart. Oh, the heartache.
And don't you love that Sybil is running away with an Irishman? I do so love the Irish.
And then there's Carson. Steady, faithful, voice-of-reason Carson. He is the anchor of the show. And I am so glad he is not going to live with Mary and her sneaky fiancé.
The rest of the servants are wonderful as well. Don't you just long for the day when Mr. Baits is no longer plagued by his demented dead ex-wife? Give the man a break, people!
Don't even get me started on Lord Grantham getting all kissy face with the maid. Oh ugh. Seriously.
And then there is poor Edith. Poor, middle child, not-quite-sure-where-her-place-is-in-life, Edith. Her love life is beyond tragic. And it doesn't help that she is socially awkward and sometimes forgetable. But I have a feeling that she has a great storyline to come.
And finally, let's talk about Granny (Maggie Smith). She is perfection. Her one-liners are priceless and her spunk and superiority keep the entire family in line.
So, I would love to hear your thoughts on this. Perhaps you have never seen the show or maybe you've memorized each episode and recite it to your co-workers on a daily basis. I don't know. But this show deserves a good discussion so bring it on.
I love that show! I watched the show once and was hooked. Unfortunately I haven't seen all of the episodes and so it sometimes takes me awhile to figure out the back plots. I really need to catch up.
ReplyDeleteI watched the first episode. But that highbrow, culturally enriching, intellectually stimulating show, "The Voice", started back up and between that and Modern Family, I haven't had opportunity to get back to the Abbey. But it looks good -- reminds me of Upstairs Downstairs which I loved so I'll definitely go back esp in consideration of your rave review here. Loved Maggie Smith (oh and the wardrobe!) And who wouldn't love a plot that includes falling in love with an Irishman? Thanks for the head's up!
ReplyDeleteAs you know, I have attempted to watch this show several times to try and see what all of the fuss is about. Call me crazy, but I can not make it through even half of one episode without falling asleep. Maybe it's pregnancy, or possibly that the intense effort it takes to understand what they are saying just wears me out. Out of the 15 attempts that I've made, I think that I may be halfway through episode 3 and still have absolutely no idea what is going on. :) I am still going to keep trying though, especially after your mom's Fiddler on the Roof comment. Who doesn't love Fiddle on the Roof?
ReplyDeleteRach
Hello Rach,
DeleteI know you have struggled with this show. But don't worry, I know at some point you will fall in love with it. You are growing a baby right now, so don't put too much pressure on yourself. And you're right, everyone loves Fiddler!
I would love to watch it with you. Let's snuggle!
ReplyDeleteLove,
The Seester
Saturday. Your couch. Kettle Corn. Be there. :)
DeleteOh sigh, just love this show. But I'm a Masterpiece Classic junky and Part I was an absolute watch for me before it even arrived to the US shores. Just WONDERFUL and love that others are finally finding this little gem (I am a complete anglophile, all English, all the time)
ReplyDeleteYour fan :-)
Hello Mini Me! We are indeed kindred spirits. :) It is a gem indeed. And if you have any other recommendations, I am all ears!
DeleteOh, I have LOTS of recommendations, so much good stuff out there from the brits. And can I just say that last nights final ep was the absolute best way to end the season- sign, so wonderful :-)
Deleteuh, that's supposed to say sigh... I think I'm still a little sleepy this morning
DeleteI need to get into this show like right now. Thanks for the reminder!!!!
ReplyDeleteSara! I think you will love it. The drama is fabulous!
Delete