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DOWNTON ABBEY: THE GRAND FINALE

I love the film Downton Abbey because of its intriguing plotline, deep topics, and how the story is very authentic to the time period in which it is set.

The story takes place in the early 1930s and follows several characters we have come to know. Mary (Michelle Dockery), is faced with divorce, which was utterly scandalous at that time; she is scorned by other nobles, and isn't permitted to take charge of Downton Abbey. Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern) and Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) experience extreme financial struggles, due to Lady Cora's brother, Horace's (Paul Giamatti) irresponsibility with Cora's inheritance. Eventually, we discover that Gus Sambrook (Alessandro Nivola), Horace's supposed finance expert, has been stealing their money and threatening Mary. Eventually, the financial problems are resolved and Mary regains her respect, with the film ending as Mary reflects on her past in a bittersweet manner.

The complexity of this story really helps pull together the Crawley family stories and provides an incredible ending to the popular show. One aspect that really impressed me is how it manages to maintain several plotlines at the same time, and how everything, especially the costumes, are very authentic to the time. I felt that several characters don't quite have the emotional depth of others, such as Lord Horence, who doesn't seem to feel anything throughout the film except for superiority. My favorite part is when Mary is forced to hide beneath the stairs due to the rule that royalty can't be in the same room as a divorced woman, which is actually quite heartbreaking. My least favorite part is when Lady Grantham's brother, Horence, asks her for part of her inheritance that is left after Horence has squandered it away.

The film's message is about keeping your head held high, and not care what others think of you. It also reminds us to value our family. Be aware that there are some references to more adult concepts, mild nudity, and substance usage.

I give Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. It releases in theaters on September 12, 2025.

By Elsy S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

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When Mary finds herself in a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future.