I wouldn't know what other tv series to compare it with, but Downton Abbey is more like Gosford Park in miniseries form. The show does go off on some strange tangents at times, but the first two seasons had 2 things going for it: Maggie Smith and the will they or won't they relationship of Mary and Matthew.
Yes, Gosford Park was really good too. I think it's the same filmmaker. The character development in Downton Abbey is good, but it's really the sets and wardrobe that brings this thing to life. Maggie Smith's character is always good for a couple well aimed zingers each episode. As a dude, I can relate to the old fashioned notions of chivalry, duty, service, loyalty, and honor. And also having beautiful, cultured, well dressed women hanging around
This season was a freakin' roller coaster. That's all I'm saying. Don't want to screw things up for someone who hasn't seen it.
I'm wondering how they're going to handle Spoiler Branson and the baby, Mary and the baby and the running of the Estate in the 4th season. These were all major plots of the 3rd season and I'm hoping they don't just come up with more surprises in the 4th season to downplay what happened in the 3rd.
Spoiler Tom's quickly become a head honcho in the house sense he's been managing the lands hands on. I'm not really sure what could happen but I'd imagine the introduction of that annoying niece living in the house, along with Lady Edith's new career and love interest will play larger roles. Ugh, just thinking about what happened in the last episode is really bumming me out.
Spoiler Both of the awful deaths this season were because the actor's wouldn't re-up for season 4. Sad, but true. I didn't know this until after the season ender, and after my S.O., my daughter, and I cursed the producers, etc., for about 15 minutes!
They ran out of ideas, the cast got too popular and wanted to leave, so they turned it into a telenovela
I'm not sure whether I will like it or not, but wanted to add the following. I was checking out the top television series available for purchase on Itunes today. Three of the top five selling series were Downton Abbey with the other two being season two of Game of Thrones (which was released this week) and season three of The Walking Dead. I had heard of this series but was stunned to see it had become so popular. I might check it out now that I know its available on Netflix.
Just finished episode3 of season 3. Started watching w the wife about a week ago. Not bad. Not bad at all.
Just have to say that I love this show. Really looking forward to season five starting in two weeks (9/21).
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