Directed by Simon Curtis, “Downton Abbey: A New Era” is the sequel to the 2019 “Downton Abbey” feature film and long-running television show of the same name. Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, and Maggie Smith all reprise their roles in an adventure that sees the Crawley family go to the South of France to uncover the mystery of the dowager countess's newly inherited villa.

Molesley provides a detailed recap of the previous film before the start of this one, which is helpful for anyone who may have forgotten the details. While it is unnecessary to have seen the last film, I recommend watching it beforehand if you are interested in seeing them at some point. Molesley's recounting of events would effectively spoil some of the drama in the other film. The recap was helpful as I had trouble remembering where things had left off despite having seen both the show and the previous film.

As for the film itself, “Downton Abbey: A New Era” is delightfully entertaining, especially for those who love the show. Maggie Smith shines in her role and manages to steal the spotlight, even though she is absent for a while. Her deadpan humor is exceptional, and every snarky comment she makes is incredibly funny. The segment of the story that revolves around the filming of a "new" talking picture was amusing. As I have an affinity for “Singin in the Rain,” I find the transitional period from silent films to "talkies" to be a fascinating setting for movies. (I'm unbelievably looking forward to “Babylon,” which is releasing later this year).  This entire production feels as though it has been brought together so effortlessly. I suppose that's a result of the years of working together on the television series. Still, the production is lavish, polished, and looks great on the big screen.  

Many of the film's heightened emotional moments rely heavily on knowledge of the characters' past story arcs. For that reason, the film won't resonate as much emotionally with non-fans. I have no doubt that long-time fans will lap up the chance to spend a couple more hours with these beloved characters. I do not know if they have plans for more films or for continuing this story in any way. Given some of the events that transpire here, if this happens to be the end, “Downton Abbey: A New Era” feels like a fitting send-off for the “Downton Abbey” Franchise.

— 4 / 5 ⭐