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Posts Tagged ‘Downton Abbey Season 2’

Experiencing Downton Abbey Withdrawals? What to Watch Next…

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , , on 27 February 2012 | 33 Comments »

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 6: Lady Mary and Matthew dancing © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

It’s been a week since the final episode of Downton Abbey aired on Masterpiece Classic leaving us delighted over Matthew and Mary’s alliance, and anxious for Mr. Bates’ fate. *sigh*

Are you feeling those Downton Abbey withdrawals as keenly as I am? If so, you can watch all seven episodes of season 2 again online in streaming video until March 7th, 2012 at the PBS Video web site. Up next on Masterpiece Classic, Sunday April 1st, 2012 is the new adaptation of Charles Dickens Great Expectations, staring Gillian Anderson and newcomer Douglas Booth. I have had a peek at it already and the art direction and costumes are stunning.

If you are ready to explore and or revisit some late Victorian, Edwardian and WWI era drama, here are a few of my favorite movies and mini-series to tide you over until season three of Downton Abbey next January:

Upstairs Downstairs the complete series (1971-1975)Upstairs Downtstairs (1971-1975)

Well…this series is a given, but I just had to sing its praises once again; it is 57 hours of pure bliss for any period drama lover. For those of you who have not yet had the pleasure: follow the wealthy, aristocratic Bellamy’s, who make up the upstairs family, and their loyal and lively servants downstairs. From 1903 to 1930 they share a fashionable London townhouse at 165 Eaton Place, surviving social change, scandals, and the horrors of the First World War. The most popular British drama series in TV history, Upstairs Downstairs won 7 Emmys®, a Golden Globe, and a Peabody. Seen on Masterpiece Theatre from 1971 to 1975 this is must see Edwardian and World War I drama at its finest. Downton Abbey tie-in? It is great view of the social classes in Britain as the lives of both upstairs and downstairs inhabitants of the household are closely observed.

The Buccaneers (1995)The Buccaneers (1995)

Based on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel of the same name, set in the 1890’s this adaptation was written and completed by Maggie Wadey (Mansfield Park 2007) and stars Carla Gugino, Mira Sorvino and Greg Wise. Four young, beautiful, and totally American heiress’ travel to London for the Season in hopes of marrying titled husbands. The great men they meet and fall in love with are not always what they appear to be. Downton Abbey tie-in? Cora, the current Countess of Grantham, was herself a buccaneer. In 1888, at the age of twenty, she and her mother arrived in London. By the end of her first Season she was betrothed to Robert, Viscount Downton, an heir to a great estate.

Waterloo Bridge (1940)Waterloo Bridge (1940)

Winston Churchill’s favorite film, we are rather fond of it too. Staring Vivian Leigh at her most vibrant and beautiful, it is indeed a tear jerker. Get your lace hankies at the ready. On the eve of World War II, a British officer Roy Cronin revisits Waterloo Bridge in London and recalls the young man he was at the beginning of World War I and the young ballerina Myra who he met just before he left for the front. They fell in love. He proposed before he departed and they were blissfully happy for about an instant. Later, she thinks he is killed and turns to street walking in hard times, only to have him return oblivious to what she has been doing to earn her bread. He introduces her to his family at their country estate. It all goes terribly wrong, but makes for great melodrama. Downton Abbey tie-in? Myra gives Roy a good luck charm before he departs for the war, just like Lady Mary gives her lucky stuffed plush toy to Matthew.

Jennie: Lady Randolph Churchill (1974)Jennie: Lady Randolph Churchill (1974)

Here we go with another spirited, rich, and beautiful American crossing the pond and marrying an English peer. This time she hooks a big fish; Lord Randolph Churchill, third son of the 7th Duke of Marlborough and gets to live at Blenheim Palace. This award winning mini-series stars Lee Remick as the luminous and captivating Jennie Churchill, the mother of statesman Sir Winston Churchill, all-around socialite and political advisor extraordinaire. Filmed on location in family homes including Blenheim Palace, the series also stars Warren Clarke as Winston, and Jeremy Brett as Count Kinsky, Lady Jennie’s great love. Even though Jennie is considered a generation before the American buccaneers hit British soil, she certainly opened the path for Cora and other Americans. Downton Abbey tie-in? Men behaving badly; women being witty and strong in beautiful country manor houses and London.

Gosford Park (2001)Gosford Park (2001)

We might say that screenwriter Julian Fellowes got his feet wet with this Oscar winning screenplay of Gosford Park before he created Downton Abbey, but it is really a whole other kettle of fish. Set a little later in the 1930’s, it still an observant look at the British class system involving the upstairs and downstairs inhabitants and their guests during a weekend of pheasant shooting at a county manor house. This time it involves a murder, so you could say that it is Agatha Christy meets the Grantham’s if one was really stretching the comparison. Downton Abbey tie-in? Apart from the direct Fellowes connection, Dame Maggie Smith excels as the toffee-nosed Constance, Dowager Countess of Trentham. This role is only a warm up to Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham, we suspect, whose biting wit is even more razor sharp and hilarious than her predecessor.

The Grand (1997-98)The Grand (1997-1998)

This mini-series never aired on Masterpiece Theatre, but it should have. Set in an opulent Manchester, England hotel at the end of WWI through the Roaring 1920′s, it is full of upstairs/downstairs dissipation and vice. This 15 hour drama has enough scandal, romance, and intrigue to keep even Downton’s evil lady’s maid O’Brien’s bangs curled for years. The story sags a bit in the middle, lacking the heart of characters in Downton, but three-time Emmy®-winner Susan Hampshire (The Pallisers & The Three Lives of Thomasina) is superb as the retired professional woman Esme Harkness, who really keeps this rocky ship from sinking. Downton Abbey tie-in? Of course the class comparisons to  the upstairs and downstairs are plainly evident, but money and romance is the heart of both dramas.

What are your favorite films from this era? I would love to discover a few new chestnuts.

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Downton Abbey image courtesy of © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 7 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , on 20 February 2012 | 76 Comments »

Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 7: shooting scene

There is nothing like the Christmas season to bring out the best and worst in relationships. It was the perfect setting for the finale of season two of Downton Abbey on Masterpiece Classic PBS last night. Packed with resolution and romance, we were treated to couples grappling for love and others smoothing out rough patches.

We were very happy to see screenwriter Julian Fellowes return to the more sophisticated, AND interesting, sphere of personal relationships to wrap up this tumultuous, and at times outrageous, second season. Here is brief synopsis from PBS:

Recap of Episode 7 (spoilers ahead)

Christmas 1919 reunites most of the Grantham family as Lady Rosamund, her gossipy maid Shore in tow, arrives eager to introduce her new suitor to the family. But neither the Granthams nor the servants can escape into the season’s merriment when they are forced to turn against one of their own. Not even games can pierce the gloom surrounding Downton, where downstairs the servants are desperate for guidance. Thomas and O’Brien are up to their old tricks, Daisy tries to make sense of her future, and Anna holds tight to endure the present.

Robert hopes that the annual New Years Shooting Party will lift everyone’s spirits, but an ill-tempered Richard resets his sights on a familiar target. His petulant and brutish efforts to dominate Mary do not go unnoticed. But with his threat hanging over her head, Mary must choose between two kinds of ruin.

Favorite Moments:

“My husband is on trial for his life Mrs. Hughes. Oh course I worry.” Anna

As we mentioned earlier, we had a hunch that the murder trial of Lord Grantham’s valet Mr. Bates would not go well. Fellowes would never miss an opportunity to make him the victim. It is a sad business, and we predict we have not heard the last of it.

“I couldn’t bear for you to thinks that we might…take up together again. When of course we can’t… you see the thing is. I am far too old for you…And now, I’m a cripple. I don’t need a wife, I need a nurse.” Sir Anthony Strallen

But, but, Sir Anthony. Edith could be both, silly dunderhead. We are very happy to see Edith taking the initiative and reconnecting with her neighbor Sir Anthony Strallen. Even granny got into the scheme, but sadly had reservations once she learned that he had been injured. Get real granny. Most eligible men died in the War. We now know the real reason why Edith learned to drive. He may not have use of his right arm any longer, but he is still a good catch Edith. Go for it.

“There is something I should tell you.” Lord Hepworth

“I hope it is nice.” Lady Rosamund

“No. Not particularly nice.” Lord Hepworth

It is interesting that Fellowes chose to introduce the other side of the aristocracy after the war; those who were ruined. Lord Hepworth’s loss of fortune, and the family estates, was more common than not. That way of life would never be the same after the Great War. Those who survived, like the Crawley family, were dependent on new industry, or new money, to continue their way of life. It would only get worse.

“You don’t have to marry him. You don’t have to marry anyone. You’ll always have a home here as long as I am alive.” Matthew

“Didn’t the war teach you never to make promises? And, anyway, you are wrong. I do have to marry him.” Lady Mary

Mary is right to be skeptical of Matthew’s offer. Being a maiden aunt, or cousin in her case, is precarious at best. It is kind of Matthew to give Mary the assurance that she has other options than to marry without love, but if she chose to take him up, her life would be so much different than what she expected for herself. Who would want to watch your former love interest raising a family with another woman? She wouldn’t last a week.

“Say something, if it’s only goodbye.” Lady Mary

“Go or stay, you must sack Carlisle. It isn’t worth buying off a month of scandal with a lifetime of misery.” Matthew

Lady Mary dropped the Pamuk bomb. Worse than the trenches in the war Matthew? Will he forgive her, or won’t he? Is this end?

“What on earth is the matter?” Dowager Countess Violet

“I am leaving in the morning Lady Grantham. I doubt we will meet again.” Sir Richard

“Do you promise?” Dowager Countess Violet

Best granny line of the night. Just the perfect reply!

“You mean you have forgiven me?” Lady Mary

“No, I haven’t forgiven you.” Matthew

“Well then.” Lady Mary

“I haven’t forgiven you, because I don’t believe you need my forgiveness.” Matthew

Well Matthew. I am quite put out that you let a lady shiver in the snow in her evening frock without giving her your dinner jacket, but, I will forgive you since it ended with you on one knee. We are happy to say that there is a cowboy in America who is really bummed since Lady Mary will not be at the rodeo.

My Review:

Upstairs entanglements: While, it ONLY took two seasons and eleven episodes to finally bring heir Matthew Crawley and Lady Mary together, we were happy none-the-less. They deserve each other: each with their hang-up’s canceling each other’s out quite nicely.  We were also introduced to a new amour of the older generation that at first impression appeared promising, but their defects could not be overlooked. Lady Rosamund Painswick’s beau Lord Hepworth looked great in Burke’s Peerage, but with the help of that super sleuth, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, who is really the relationship whisperer of Downton, you know, and the observant housemaid Anna, we learn the nasty truth. On the other hand, we were very pleased to see that Lady Edith took our advice and sought out her own happiness by reconnecting with her former beau, Sir Anthony Strallen. Go #TeamEdith! And, there is nothing like a near death experience to put all to right in the romance department. No one expects the Spanish Flu, but almost losing Lady Grantham to the grim reaper has done wonders for the floundering, mid-life crisis inflicted Lord Grantham. He and his lady seem to have rekindled their affections enough for her to feel confident to wheedle his approval for their newly married, rebel, expat, daughter Lady Sybil off in Ireland making babies. Nothing like a grandchild to cement burned bridges, ehh?

Downstairs the most interesting non-romantic couple, footman Thomas and lady’s maid O’Brien, continue their smoking sessions, scheming and sarcasm. Though, even the evil bangs are getting tired of Thomas and his blunderings. Ha! The most gripping plot of this episode was Mr. Bates’ murder trial. We had a feeling this would not end well. The scenes of his wife Anna at the trial, (conveniently moved to York), and the rest of the household’s reactions to being called to testify against their fellow servant were harrowing. Even evil O’Brien was uncomfortable and showed concern! Personally, we still think Sir Richard ‘Murdock’ Carlisle had Vera Bates done in to protect Lady Mary. Just sayin’. On another front, we were happy that Dithering Daisy got scammed by Mrs. Patmore into thinking that her dead husband (of six hours) William was speaking to her from beyond the grave through the parlor game planchettes (Ouija board in the US), telling her to go see his father on the farm. She did. It went well, so maybe we can put this plot to bed please.

We are greatly relieved that this episode saw the return of more sanity to the plot lines and tone of the narrative. As always, Granny Crawley got all the best zingers. That “do you promise” line might equal her “what is a week-end” in popularity. It was a perfectly timed putdown to that cretin Sir Richard ‘Murdock’ Carlisle. The most disappointing part of the scene was that we did not get to see his face when she delivered it. We thought that Julian Fellowes tied up the important bits regarding romance, (except #TeamEdith), and left the plot with Mr. Bates and Anna dangling for us to fester over for another year. Yes, season three of Downton Abbey is currently in production. It will air first in the UK this fall and in the US in January 2013. Sorry American Downtonites; we are still being punished for that radical revolution of 1776.

Overall, it was a fabulous season at Downton Abbey. Here are my predictions for season 3. Mary and Matthew’s wedding is a given, but there are still romantic possibilities for Lady Edith. Surely Julian Fellowes will not let her remain unattached? Will she form an alliance with reluctant neighbor Sir Anthony Strallen, or will Edith be given a new amore? Maybe she will find a career. Race car driver? What about that creepy usurper Patrick Gordon/Crawley? I don’t think we have heard the last of him. And, what happened to Lady Rosamund’s two children, Lavinia and Cyril? I hope we get to meet them. I fear that they will kill off Branson since he has basically served his purpose. If so, Sybil will move back to Downton with her children. Yes, there will be more than one by then.

Whatever they throw at us, including Shirley Maclaine as Cora’s American mother, it will be pure torture to wait. See you next year Downtonites.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2012 for MASTERPIECE

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Top Tweets from the Downton Abbey Episode 6 Twitter Party

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , on 16 February 2012 | 6 Comments »

Downton Abbey Lady Edith

#TeamEdith

As a few of you might be aware of, I am co-moderating the Downton Abbey live Twitter Parties for Masterpiece Classic PBS’s weekly airing of the hit mini-series. For the benefit of those unknowing souls who have not experienced a Twitter Party, just image thousands of fans tweeting 140 word messages to each other in response to the dramatic doings being thrown at us during the broadcast. It’s one giant love/laugh fest!

Co-moderating is a blast – it’s like trying to watch a ticker tape parade on speed. It is so fast that I miss most of the thousands of tweets whizzing by on Tweetgrid. Every week, I do go back and read my stream in case some poor soul really needs an answer to some puzzling bit, and just for laughs. Here are a few that just made me LOL (laugh out loud) even four days after the party on Sunday. Enjoy!

Oh, and please do join in the fun this Sunday during the national broadcast of the finale episode of Downton Abbey on February 19th at 9:00 pm ET & PT.

Laurel Ann Nattress @Austenprose

And…. The best tweet of the night goes to my fellow Janeite Vic

Vic @janeaustenworld

  • John Bates in bed just doesn’t twirl my cookies. #DowntonPBS

I hope I see a few familiar Janeites at this Sunday’s Downton Abbey Twitter Party. Just use hashtag #DowntonPBS and your favorite Twitter aggregator like TweetDeck or TweetGrid to join in the fun!

Cheers Downtonites,

Laurel Ann

Image courtesy of © MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 6 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , , , on 13 February 2012 | 55 Comments »

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 6: Lady Mary and Matthew dancing

Past regret, future aspirations, and fate punctuated the dramatic plot of episode six of Downton Abbey season two last night on Masterpiece Classic.

The end of World War I should bring peace and normalcy back to the residents of Downton, but the Lord of the manor Robert Crawley struggles to find logic in all the change and senseless loss, while his daughter Lady Sybil is determined that her life will never go back to the empty and unproductive existence of a debutant. An interesting development in Matthew’s health changes his prospects in many eyes, and a fatal sickness will level the playing field for Lady Mary. Here is a brief recap from PBS.

Recap of Episode 6 (spoilers)

1919 sees the last of the recovering officers depart Downton, the house is reverted to its former state — but not so its residents. The future looms large for a lost and melancholy Robert, an uneasy Bates, a determined Sybil, a cunning, ambitious Thomas and a desperate Ethel.

A stunning revelation deeply affects Robert and Cora and incites Richard to tighten his grip on Mary. But Mary has accepted her fate with detachment. Violet, however, will do no such thing, and even Carson reaches his limit.

Sybil discovers unlikely, however unenthusiastic, allies. A wedding is planned but fate cruelly intervenes. In its wake lay guilt, grief and, among the servants, fresh horrors.

Favorite Moments:

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 6: Lord Grantham and Jane

“Do you ever wonder what it was all for?”

Lord Grantham is very introspective and melancholy to new housemaid Jane, who he seems to be reaching out to. He mentions thirty men killed in the war on his estate alone, coupled with his continued friction with his wife Cora and his three grown daughter’s machinations, and you have one Earl in a midlife crisis.  Lord Grantham is very kind hearted, but he does have a temper which we see ignited several times in this episode.

“All this unbridled joy has given me an appetite.” Dowager Countess Violet

As the family all run into the drawing room to witness Cousin Matthew’s miraculous recovery of the use of his legs, and um, well as granny so delicately put it, a happy family life, one wonders out loud how this turn of events will change his value to those in the family who are in favor of Lady Mary still marrying him? Of course the Dowager Countess delivers the best, and most sensible, line to close the ridiculous reactions by all of her family. Unbridled joy indeed! And these are Englishmen? They certainly are not acting like it.

“The truth is, Ethel’s made her choice and now she’s stuck with it.” Lady Mary

“That’s seems a little hard.” Lavinia

“Does it? Aren’t all of us stuck with the choices we make?” Lady Mary

Lady Mary is rather peeved throughout this entire episode. I feel her anger and frustration seeping through her cold reserve in her cynicism. Her caustic remarks are rampant throughout. This ironic statement strikes a sharp cord with her mother Cora and sister, Lady Sybil. Her mother sees that she is striking out in reaction to her own situation. She made the choice to ruin herself by being ‘pamuked’ when she slept with that hunky Turkish diplomat and now she must lie in it. On the other hand, her sister Lady Sybil is about to make a decision with Branson that she will be stuck with. The different reactions by both ladies to Lady Mary’s cold statement tells all.

“Don’t worry. You time will come.” Dowager Countess Violet

“Will it? Or am I just to be the maiden aunt. Isn’t this what they do? Arrange presents for their prettier relations?” Lady Edith

“Don’t be defeatist dear, it’s very middle class.” Dowager Countess Violet

More praise and sympathy for poor Edith. As the lorry pulled away with the last of the hospital equipment in the opening scene, and with it, her job at being useful, I felt a pang of angst for the middle Crawley daughter who just can’t find her place in the world. She seems to always be at everyone’s beck and call, even driving cars and carrying luggage. Now she is responsible for unpacking Matthew and Lavinia’s wedding gifts? Ugh. I am all for Team Edith this season, so, my unsolicited advice to her is to not hang back and wait for people to need you. Go out and find your own happiness Edith. Don’t expect it to come to you, or you will end up that maiden aunt that you are so fearful of becoming.

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 6 Anna and Bates wedding

“Well Mrs. Bates. You’ve had your way with me.” Mr. Bates

“*Giggle*.” Mrs. Bates

We wanted to write about Anna and Bates finally getting married, but we are too nauseous over their one night of connubial bliss, (too much really English white skin and giggling in bed), that we decided to abstain from comment to save our readers the embarrassment too!

“The aristocracy has not survived by its intransigence. We must work with what we’ve got to minimize the scandal.” Dowager Countess Violet

Thank goodness granny chips in a grand one liner at the end of the episode to save the day after Lord Grantham gives his blessing for Lady Sybil to marry Branson the chauffeur. Yes, the aristocracy is stubborn. That is how they survived.

My Review:

In this packed two hour episode, some older plot lines were resolved and new ones introduced. Screenwriter Julian Fellowes certainly pulled out all the melodramatic stops. As emotions ran from regret, guilt, anger, envy, grief, desire and fear, I wondered what else could possibly have been squeezed into this once classy and well-written corset drama that has now slipped into “so middle-class” territory as granny would say.

Granted, all this highly charged, multiple plot line, melodramatic tosh is intensely entertaining, but I am seriously craving a return to the more sophisticated narrative and character development of season one. I am most disappointed in the trite and sappy character that poor actor Dan Stevens is trying to add some dignity to. Some of the things that come out of Matthew Crawley’s mouth are so, so, silly, that I am embarrassed for him. We were impressed, however, that O’Brien’s bangs and Lady Mary’s eyebrows suffered no harm during this week’s series of incredibly wild events. We hope that next week’s two hour Christmas special will bring all the other lacking elements to right.

Please join us next Sunday for episode 7 of Downton Abbey and live tweet with me as co-moderator of the PBS Twitter Party during the episode on February 19, 2012 at 9:00pm ET and PT. Just use hashtag #DowntonPBS at Twitter or on your favorite Twitter aggregator like Tweetdeck or Tweetgrid.

Episode 7 of the second season airs next Sunday, February 19th at 9:00pm ET & PT (check local listings) on Masterpiece Classic PBS. I will be live Tweeting the entire season, so please join us.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 5 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , , , , on 6 February 2012 | 37 Comments »

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 5: Lord Grantham announces wars end

Deception and manipulation were major themes in episode five of Downton Abbey on Masterpiece Classic PBS last night as Downton’s residents battle challenges and conflicts of a personal nature.

We were introduced to a mysterious new patient at Downton’s officer convalescent hospital who claims to be related to the Crawleys; ex-housemaid Ethel, now destitute with an infant is desperate for support from the father Major Bryant; wheelchair bound Downton heir Matthew has written himself out of everyone’s lives; Lady Mary’s fiancé is showing his true colors; and wicked witch Vera Bates has dropped a house on her husband, valet Mr. Bate’s divorce proceedings. Phew. After last week’s somber episode on the personal losses of war, this episode seemed like a picnic beset by fire ants with everyone on the move and clamoring for survival amongst the fallout. Here is a brief recap from PBS:

Recap of Episode 5 (spoilers)

1918 promises the war drawing to a close, yet uncertainty still reigns. With its ruined aristocratic houses, rationing, and fallen officers, war’s aftermath opens some doors for the present and former servants and slams shut others. Meanwhile, Isobel’s post-war plans create an indomitable, if unlikely, alliance. But when a mysterious stranger arrives, Downton faces more turmoil.

Sir Richard is anxious to take not just Downton’s most beautiful asset, but one of its most treasured as well. In return and against Robert’s wishes, he restores a powerful replacement in its halls. And Vera Bates takes startling action.

Favorite Moments:

“Did they tell you we’re related?” Major Patrick Gordon

“Yes, but I am afraid I’m not much good at family history.” Lady Edith

Here we seen Lady Edith in the dark and being drawn in because someone reaches out to her. Last year, I was not on Team Edith, at all. This season we are seeing a different side to her, more compassionate and vulnerable, and it is swaying my view. The introduction of Patrick Gordon/Crawley is a very uncomfortable plot line for her and all of her family. Is this soldier impersonating her cousin the long lost heir to Downton Abbey who went down with the Titanic in 1912? This is a low blow to poor Edith, considering that he was engaged to her sister Mary who didn’t really love him, but she did. I don’t have a good feeling about where this might go and am quite protective of Edith, since no one seems to care two figs about her, or give her any credence in the household. If she is evolving into the Anne Elliot of Downton, where is her Captain Wentworth?

“Go to a big city. Reinvent a past. You’ve broken the rules my girl. And it’s not good pretending it’s easily mended.” Mr. Hughes

Ethel, one of Downton’s residents, or more correctly ex-residents, is in a tight spot. After being fired for doing the wild thing with an officer, Ethel the ex-housemaid is really pressuring Mrs. Hughes to intercede on her behalf. The father won’t acknowledge the baby and Mrs. Hughes, feeling compassionate about Ethel’s bleak situation, even asks for Lady Cora’s help in inviting the dead father’s parents to Downton in the hopes of an introduction. Ethel continues to act outside of decorum which just pushes everyone’s buttons beyond measure. This situation is out of control too.

“A cease fire will begin on the morning of the 11th.” Lord Grantham

Best news in five years for the Downton residents. Unfortunately, another 11,000 soldiers will die before the news of the armistice reaches them. Factoid via Vic at Jane Austen’s World twitter feed. Life as the British aristocracy knows it, will never surface again.

“If you think you can jilt me or somehow set me aside I tell you now you have given me the power to destroy you, and don’t think I won’t use it.” Sir Richard

Speaking of backbone, Sir Richard’s entire skeleton is poking out of his Saville Row suit in this scene. I was screaming at Lady Mary to flee for her life. Does anyone want to marry someone who threatens you with blackmail even before the ceremony? I don’t think so.

My Review:

It was interesting to see how both the upstairs and downstairs residents of Downton react to the changes of the impeding close of WWI. We begin to see the final impact of five years of hardship, human loss and economic devastation on England and at Downton. War widows Daisy and Jane face the fact that there are so few young men left that they will most likely not re-marry; many of the injured men like Matthew Crawley and Major Gordon will require long-term care; opportunists like Thomas will be drawn into quick money schemes like the black market; and carpetbaggers like Sir Richard Carlisle will be ready to swoop in and purchase estates from hard hit families. The social and economic structure of the English aristocrats will never be the same.

I am a bit taken aback by the difference in tone of this season from the nuanced and more conversational feel of season one. I am  concerned about the over dramatic, soap operaish direction that screenwriter Julian Fellowes has chosen. The plot line introducing Patrick Gordon as the imposter (or not) heir and his non-English manners and speech is over the top and trite. Didn’t this same situation happen in a Dynasty or Dallas episode from the 1980′s? In addition, with the announcement this past week of actress Shirley MacLaine as Cora’s American mother into the cast for season three,will we be witness to two mighty matrons: the Dowager Countess Violet and Cora’s mother verbally sparing? They seem perfectly suited for a throw down of polished English values v progressive American ideals. But please Mr. Fellowes, no cat fight in the Downton fountain.

Please join us next Sunday for episode 6 of Downton Abbey and live tweet with me as co-moderator of the PBS Twitter Party during the episode on February 12, 2012 at 9:00pm ET and PT. Just use hashtag #DowntonPBS at Twitter or on your favorite Twitter aggregator like Tweetdeck or Tweetgrid.

Episode 6 of the second season airs next Sunday, February 12th at 9:00pm ET & PT (check local listings) on Masterpiece Classic PBS. I will be live Tweeting the entire season, so please join us.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 4 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , , , , on 30 January 2012 | 38 Comments »

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 4: Matthew Crawley at war

As episode four of season two of Downton Abbey on Masterpiece Classic unfolded last night, the emotions of the household passed into the dark side of the moon. Three members return to Downton, all bringing heartache.

Sacrifices are felt both upstairs and downstairs from the devastating war. While shocking news brings sadness and concern to loved ones at home, those not so loved employ blackmail and deceit to play out their power games and revenge. However, when the going gets tough, who better than to be in your corner than the Dowager Countess Violet? Granny on the warpath, fighting for her family and staff, is an implacable force.

The final scene of this emotional episode will leave a lump in your throat. Even the theme music played over the final credits sounds like a requiem mass. Here is a brief recap of the episode from PBS.

Recap of Episode 4 (spoilers)

Amiens, 1918: Devastating news from the front rocks the very foundations of Downton Abbey, and it is up to the Dowager Countess to buck bureaucratic protocol and bring Downton’s men home. In an unwelcome return, Vera Bates threatens to make public the scandalous story of Lady Mary’s ill-fated indiscretion. Desperate to contain the story, Mary appeals to the savvy opportunist Sir Richard Carlisle.

Mary is not the only woman to consider hard sacrifice. Some will make it against their will, some will be denied a chance, and some will refuse. Daisy may buckle from its pressure, while Lavinia desperately wishes for such a burden. Sybil must push back. And Cora, preoccupied with the running of the home, cannot see that a sacrifice may already have been made.

Favorite Moments:

“They’re going to chuck everything they’ve got at us.” Matthew Crawley

Matthew. When this episode opened at the front with a scene of rats the size of small dogs, I knew we were in for some startling visuals. Being the cynic that I am, I can usually find humor in just about anything, but I have to confess upfront that there is nothing to laugh about men living in deplorable conditions and dying in the trenches in France. When you and William prepare for battle I felt an overwhelming sense of doom. With my lace hanky at the ready, I bravely continued. My instincts were right. Not good.

“I say. Is this an instrument of communication or torture?” Dowager Countess Violet

Dowager Countess of Grantham. Thanks for the one true laugh of the entire episode. You vs. technology. Anyone who has ever tried to learn a new computer program, cell phone or any other electronic device today was laughing out loud with you. But, the burning question of the night? Who the heck is your niece Shrimpy who you were conversing with on the telephone? What kind of name is that? One is reminded of fictional characters named Bunny, Slugo and Turnip, but Shrimpy seems so funny coming from the lips of the esteemed Dowager Countess. (Will we meet Shrimpy next season?)

“Probable spinal damage.” Lady Mary

Matthew. Your return after being injured on the front is a shocker to all of your family and the downstairs staff. You do not take the news of your probable life-long limitations very well, and we can’t blame you. Your reaction to push away all who love you is pretty typical. This turn of events would bring many a man to his knees. We commend you for your dignity, but please don’t make anymore rash decisions.

“Who would of thought it? The cold and careful Lady Mary Crawley. Well, we know better now.” Sir Richard Carlisle

Lady Mary. You have told us that your fiancé is from a tough world. Well, he just pulled you into it. Do you really want to marry that  Rupert Murdock wannabe from hell? Whatever the outcome of the scandal from your night of sin might bring, it would only last a few years. Ditch the jerk. Go to America and find a randy Yank and be happy, please. Last season was all about you being tormented by the entail. This season it is the fallout from being pamuked. (addition of verb to the Downton lexicon courtesy of @OBriensBangs)

Definition of pamuked:

pamuked  /pä(m)üked /

v. pamuked, Chiefly British Vulgar Slang
v.tr.

To engage in sexual intercourse with a Turkish diplomat.

“Good God almighty. The engagement is announced between Lady Mary Josephine Crawley, eldest daughter of the Earl and Countess of Grantham and Sir Richard Carlisle, son of Mr. and the late Mrs. Mark Carlisle of Morningside, Edinburgh.” Lord Grantham

Edith! I loved your reaction during the surprising news of the announcement in the London newspaper of Mary engagement in this scene. Your expressions are priceless. I wanted to know what your were thinking. Are you happy because Mary is finally going to be married and move out of Downton? Or, are you inwardly beaming because Mary looks like a fool in front of your parents for not having any control over her fiancé? Or, are you thinking now your parents are so distracted by Mary’s problems that you might get a chance to drive that tractor again?

My Review:

I think we are at the point in the narrative where things look very grim for many before the story arch. Not to worry. Screenwriter Julian Fellowes has taken us to the dark side for a reason. He knows what he is about.

Even though this episode was filled with sadness and loss, the plot is moving in an interesting direction. There are so many open ends to tie up. What is Vera Bates going to do next to ruin her husband’s happy life with Anna? Will Mary really marry that heartless Rupert Murdock wannabe who holds her secrets over her like blackmail? Can Lavinia say no to her inner child and find the strength to return to Matthew? What will Matthew’s new different life be like in a wheelchair? And poor Edith and Sybil. Is romance even possible for them now with so many good men dead in the war, and the one that wants one of them a socialist? Stay tuned.

Please join us next Sunday for episode 5 of Downton Abby and live tweet with me as co-moderator of the PBS Twitter Party during the episode on February 5, 2012 at 9:00pm ET and PT. Just use hashtag #DowntonPBS at Twitter or on your favorite Twitter aggregator like Tweetdeck or Tweetgrid.

Episode 5 of the second season airs next Sunday, Februrary 5th at 9:00pm ET on Masterpiece Classic PBS. I will be live Tweeting the entire season, so please join us.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 3 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , on 23 January 2012 | 24 Comments »

Image from Downton Abbey Season 2 Episode 3: Miss O'Brien and Thomas

For those watching the second season of Downton Abbey on Masterpiece Classic last night, the fields of France were not the only place where bombs were dropping! Episode three was an eye popper, full of confrontations, shocking surprises, unrequited love, and ingenious plot twists worthy of the best Agatha Christie crime novel.

Recap Episode Two (spoilers)

Downton is deep into aiding the WWI effort by converting its hallowed halls of the aristocracy into a convalescent hospital for wounded officers. Lady Grantham and Cousin Isobel Crawley are co-admins of this altruistic endeavor, and like two bulls locked at the horn, fought for power of its management, while daughters Ladies Mary, Edith and Sybil assist with caring for the recuperating soldiers. Mary, granny and Aunt Rosamund dig deeper into Matthew’s fiancé Lavinia’s background, while downstairs Mrs. Patmore pressures the scullery maid Daisy into accepting William’s affections before he leaves for the front, and Anna and Bates are re-united when Lady Mary discovers him working in a pub in a nearby village. Matthew returns to Downton from the trenches and brings his “candle in the wind” fragile fiancé Lavinia to Downton where she reveals her past association with Mary’s beau, Sir Richard Carlisle to her. Matthew departs for the front kissing his fiancé’s hand while Lady Mary watches with regret. If she had not taken aunt Rosamund’s advice and refused his first proposal, it could be her hand that he is honoring. Here is a brief synopsis from PBS.

It is 1918 and Mary’s new alliance has aroused Violet’s interest in matters of suitability and love. With Sybil in mind, the Dowager Countess declares, “war breaks down barriers and when peacetime re-erects them, it’s very easy to find oneself on the wrong side.” Indeed, among war’s greatest casualties at Downton are the prescribed roles and class boundaries. Thomas is exerting his authority over the servants with aplomb; Mrs. Patmore, Daisy and Mrs. Bird are cooking up a little something on the side; and Ethel has discovered an age-old way to support the war effort. But between Robert and Bates, faith and loyalty transcend class, offering hope when Robert needs it most. Because now, the war has threatened a far more serious casualty.

Favorite Moments:

“Edith has it under control.” Lady Grantham

Wow. The Jan Brady of Downton Abbey is on the move. Lady Edith has always been the “pickle in the middle” – that awkward middle child who could never seem to get it together. Her relationship with her older sister was lethal, her parents just ignore her in comparison to all the attention Mary and Sybil receive, and her attempts at romance have been going after Lady Mary’s leftovers, or horrifically making the moves on a local married farmer. Ack! Poor Edith. Like her family we love/hate her, yet in this episode in every scene she is portrayed as competent, reliable and compassionate; even to her elder sister, and arch enemy, Lady Mary! For those on Team Edith, this is indeed a welcome turn of character.

“And this is your beau?” Dowager Countess Violet

“He lives in a tough world.” Lady Mary

“And will you be joining him there?” Dowager Countess Violet

Whenever the Dowager Countess of Grantham and Lady Mary put their heads together for a tête-à-tête, we know that there will be a conflict of old Victorian mores and new modern Edwardian values. This always results in granny pelting out one-line zingers that pucker up her face and ours: hers in disapproval; ours in cringed laughter. Actress Maggie Smith who portrays DC Violet is a national treasure!

“Of course it would be foolish of me to accuse you of being unprofessional since you have never had a profession in your life.” Mrs. Crawley

Emotions run high at Downton with the administration of the convalescent hospital at odds between Lady Grantham and Cousin Isobel. We are witness to an intense, terse, and emotionally charged smack down of these to adversaries thrown together under the egress of the war. One must say out loud, that we were very disappointed that it did not end in a cat fight in the fountain, but it was very enjoyable all the same. We advise Cousin Isobel not to let the grand front door hit her on her way out.

“The truth is, I will stay at Downton until you want to run away with me.” Branson

The trying non-romance between Lady Sybil and the chauffeur Branson is feeling as doomed as Romeo and Juliet without any of the passion. He declares his love and asks her to run away with him. Shades of an elopement to Gretna Green, which we know from any Jane Austen novel, always ends in disaster. Oh Branson, you dreamboat in the making. Let’s get practical.  Do you want Sybil because you truly love her, or is the notion of stealing one of the daughters of aristocracy so exciting to your socialist sensibilities that it has blinded your judgment? How could this ever work? I am a tried and true romantic, but I throw up the red flag of caution to Lady Sybil here. He’s not for you deary.

“Don’t speak ill of Mr. Lang.” O’Brien

“You’re a funny one. Talk about sweet and sour.” Thomas

We know that we are in for some great skullduggery when O’Brien and Thomas put their heads together for a smoke break. But, one does not expect to hear kindness from the evil one. What’s up? Does O’Brien have a thing for Lord Grantham’s former valet Mr. Lang who is suffering from shell shock? Why is she defending him to Thomas? I smell a future romance for O’Brien, if that could EVER be possible. Naugh. What’s was I thinking?

“It’s like living at a second rate hotel where the guests just keep arriving and no one seems to leave.” Dowager Countess, Violet

Stuck at Hotel California granny? More truth to your previous statement about being locked in a W. G. Wells novel. We sympathize, but worry that The Eagles might want credit on that line.

“Watch yourself Mr. Bates. Thomas is in charge now and it won’t do to get on the wrong side of him.” O’Brien

“Is there a right side?” Mr. Bates

Indeed. Best factual statement so far. Glad that someone finally said it.

My Review:

Many of the residents of this stately grand manor house are contemplating their place at Downton. It appears that everyone, but saintly housemaid Anna and former valet Mr. Bates, had their knickers in a knot: cat fight showdowns, begrudged departures, revelations about beaus, scheming, plotting, and skullduggery galore, loved ones missing in action, sex in the storeroom, and a shocking final reveal. Even granny, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, was in competition for some of the best zingers of the night. Phew. I am breathless by it all.

What was so enthralling about this episode was the amount of new information, new twists, and resolutions we were fed. I felt like I was at a carb loading party before a marathon. Just when one thinks that the plots is bursting at the seams with drama and pathos, screenwriter Julian Fellowes adds another layer.

What did you think of this episode? I thought it the best yet. I always love the second act of an opera. The plot builds and we are dying to know who will be killed, who will live, and who will be married. Well, we have another 4 episodes before the fat lady sings on this season, so please check back weekly for my recaps and reviews.

I had a blast again as co-moderator of the Downton Abbey Twitter Party hosted by PBS. You can tweet live with us again next week for episode four on Sunday, January 29th at 9:00pm ET and PT. Just use hashtag #DowntonPBS at Twitter or on your favorite Twitter aggregator like Tweetdeck or Tweetgrid.

Episode 4 of the second season airs next Sunday, January 29th at 9:00pm ET on Masterpiece Classic PBS. I will be live Tweeting the entire season, so please join us.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 2 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , , on 16 January 2012 | 26 Comments »

While US viewers were glued to their TV’s last night watching the 2nd episode of season 2 of Downton Abbey on Masterpiece Classic PBS, season 1 was awarded a Golden Globe for best miniseries or motion picture made for television beating out the BBC America’s The Hour and three HBO films: Mildred Pierce, Too Big to Fail and Cinema Verite. I was live tweeting the new episode as co-moderator of the weekly Downton Twitter Party with: @pbs, @masterpiecepbs, @VanityFair and @tomandlorenzo when the news broke. To the many fans of the hit series set in England during Edwardian and WWI times, the recognition and award meant that we might see a season four. Period drama has resurfaced after threats of extinction. Ha!

Season 2 continues to intrigue. Last week in episode 1, we were thrown into the trenches of 1916 France as Great Britain battles the Hun during WWI, heir Matthew Crawley introduces his fiancé Lavinia Swire to his family, housemaid Anna Smith and valet John Bates were separated by the arrival of his estranged wife Vera, former footman Thomas Barrow purposely injures himself on the front for a ticket home, and cook Mrs. Patmore presses scullery maid Daisy into a romance with newly enlisted footman William. This week the scenes are set entirely in England at Downton and London in 1917. Here is a brief recap from PBS:

Recap of Episode Two (spoilers)

As a convalescent home for wounded officers, Downton Abbey offers respite from the front. But Cora and Isobel, locked in a power struggle over running the home, wage domestic war, and Thomas in his new rank as acting-Sergeant is not one to broker peace.

Mary rejects Rosamund’s dubious advice while Daisy reluctantly accepts Mrs. Patmore’s — in both cases, new bonds are irreversibly forged. Meanwhile, Anna dares to hope when she spies a familiar figure in the village.

When Matthew accompanies a visiting General to Downton, a dinner party brings much of the war’s painful demands into sharp relief, claiming one victim and very nearly several others. Branson’s ambitions are revealed and William’s aspirations are fulfilled. And Edith, finally, catches someone’s eye.

Favorite Moments:

 ”I don’t know many people who would threaten me behind the laurels.” – Violet, Dowager Countess Grantham

Mary seems defensive of Lavinia. Countess Violet’s comment was the perfect comeback.

Favorite touching scene: Housemaid Anna and former valet Mr. Bates are reunited after Lady Mary uses Sir Richards resources to discover that he is tending bar in a local town.

Favorite underdog shines: Lady Edith sheds her “Jan Brady” image and earns the recognition she deserves for helping the patients. Go Team Edith!

Sense of impending doom: Matthew’s fiance Lavinia Swire is as delicate as a candle in the wind.

“Classic Rosamund. She is never more rightous when she is in the wrong.” – Violet, Dowager Countess Grantham

Chip off the ole block: Aunt Rosamund is rivaling her mother Violet, Dowager Countess Grantham in the manipulation department.

My Review:

The quality of the production continues to shine. Even though we are deep into the war with cutbacks and rationing in place, we do see new frocks on many of the ladies, and the gentlemen all in striking red regimental uniforms. Lady Mary’s stunning black beaded evening gown reflects up to date fashions of a sheath dress that had been embellished and a string on jet beads.

Screenwriter Fellowes is building up his characters and plot line nicely. I really like how he has worked in the historical facts of the era. Several grand manor houses became hospitals and the ladies of the household nurses while many of the male residents, upstairs and downstairs enlisted for King and Country. It is early days yet in the season, so the jury is still out on this season.

Episode 3 of the second season airs next Sunday, January 22 at 9:00pm ET on Masterpiece Classic PBS. I will be live Tweeting the entire season, so please join us.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Downton Abbey Season 2: Episode 1 on Masterpiece Classic PBS – Recap & Review

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , , on 9 January 2012 | 35 Comments »

Image from Downton Abbey Seasin 2 Episode 1: Matthew Crawley and Lady Mary

Season 2 of the award winning television series Downton Abbey aired on Masterpiece Classic PBS last night. I had a blast as co-moderator of the official Twitter Party hosted by PBS. Many thanks to my fellow moderators:  @pbs, @masterpiecepbs, @VanityFair and @tomandlorenzo. The turnout of Tweeters was amazing and we had great fun dishing about this long-awaited second season. Join us on Twitter, or your favorite aggregator like TweetDeck or TweetGrid, next Sunday by using hashtag #DowntonPBS, and every Sunday at 9:00pm ET & PT (check local listing) through February 19, 2012.

Season one concluded last year with the announcement of the war by Lord Grantham. This is a real turning point for life at Downton and the British nation. We know from history that the devastation in deaths and the way of life will change everything – now we must watch and wait to see how these true life events play out with the characters that Fellowes has crafted. Here is a brief recap from PBS:

Recap of Episode 1 (spoilers) 

1916 opens in the throes of the Great War. Uncertainty and worry have taken up residence in the great house of Downton Abbey. Some newcomers arrive, met with varying degrees of welcome; some young men are absent, desperately clinging to survival in the trenches of France; and some men remain at Downton, their discontent festering.

Robert, ever the honorable patriarch, struggles with the uneasiness of a diminished house and the suspicion that the uniform he wears is empty. The Crawley women, too, attempt to find their place in the new climate, as Isobel helps chart a new course for one sister and Branson exerts his influence over yet another. Among the servants, love is in the air — O’Brien being, as always, the exception — until Bates makes a decision that crushes the hearts of the two people who love him most.

News about Matthew stuns the house, and Mary has a revelation of her own. Downton Abbey itself is to be made useful, transformed into a convalescent home for wounded officers. In wartime, not even the seemingly immutable Dowager Countess, Violet, remains entirely unchanged!

Favorite Moments:

“I want the best. And I’m not ashamed to admit it.” – Ethel Park

Favorite new character: Cheeky housemaid Ethel Park.

“Amputation in the dining room? Resuscitation in the pantry? I forbid it!” – Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham

Favorite laugh out loud line! Violet is such a wit. She reminds me of Lady Bracknell on Oscar Wilde’s play The Importance of Being Earnest. Her off the cuff reactions are just priceless!

“You thought you’d got the better of me. But you were wrong.” – Vera Bates

Favorite new evil character: Wicked Witch Vera Bates!

Favorite flashback to Gone with the Wind: Lady Mary at train station asking Matthew to come back safely from the war.

Favorite check with reality: Thomas at the front in the thick of trench war and facing his courage/cowardice.

Favorite *snort*: Lady Edith goes all Greenacres on us and drives a tractor to aid the cause!

My Review:

What an incredible, mesmerizing premiere. We have been introduced to new characters with cheeky housemaid Ethel Parks and Mr. Bates wicked wife Vera. The war is in full swing and we know we in for a tragedy as so many members of the household enlist and serve in trenches of WWI.

The costumes in this episode were stunning. Seeing the men in their red coats always takes my breath away. It is still very early in the season so I am keeping an open mind to plot and character development. What did you think of the season two premiere? Who is your favorite character so far?

Period drama flourishes at Downton. Bravo creator/screen writer Julian Fellowes. You have us in the palm of your hand.

Episode 2 of the second season airs next Sunday, January 15 at 9:00pm ET on Masterpiece Classic PBS. Don’t miss it.

Images courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2011 for MASTERPIECE

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Join the Downton Abbey Twitter Party on Sunday January 8th – Hosted by Masterpiece Classic PBS

Posted in Downton Abbey, Masterpiece Classic, tagged , , , on 6 January 2012 | 4 Comments »

Downton Abbey Season 2: Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess Grantham (2011)

The long wait it almost over! The premiere of season 2 of Downton Abbey is set for this Sunday, January 8th at 9:00pm (check local listing) on Masterpiece Classic PBS.

To celebrate the return of the award winning series, Masterpiece is hosting a Downton Twitter party during the broadcast of episode one on Sunday from 9:00 – 11:00pm ET & PT. I will be co-moderating with members of the Masterpiece staff as well as Tom + Lorenzo, a fashion blog, Vanity Fair Magazine and special West Coast guest, comedian Patton Oswalt.

Come and tweet along with the thousands of devoted Downtonites and new viewers too. There will be plenty of pithy comments, insightful facts and candid reactions to all the drama and grandeur that we love about Downton Abbey and its upstairs and downstairs inhabitants.

Here are all of the details:  

Tag your posts with the hashtag #DowntonPBS.

WHAT: Masterpiece and PBS are hosting a live Twitter discussion!

WHEN: Sunday, January 8, 2012, 9-11pm Eastern time

WHERE: On Twitter, of course. Use hashtag #DowntonPBS.

TOPICS: Downton Abbey, fashion, Masterpiece classic

WHO: @masterpiecepbs; @pbs; Laurel Ann Nattress of @Austenprose; Tom and Lorenzo of @tomandlorenzo; Vanity Fair Magazine (@VanityFair) special West Coast guest comedian Patton Oswalt (@PattonOswalt) — and YOU!

RSVP: Please follow and be followed (on Twitter, of course!) by other #DowntonPBS tweeters

Don’t miss one exciting minute of the continuation. Will Matthew survive the trench warfare in France to return home to Downton and Mary? What new characters will we meet to stir the plot? Will Anna and Bates finally marry? Will the Dowager Countess ever understand what a weekend is?

Hope to see you on Twitter!

Cheers,

Laurel Ann

Image courtesy © Carnival Film & Television Limited 2012 for MASTERPIECE

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