Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG): More of the same and that’s exactly why it works

Film Review: Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG) - out now

Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Jim Carter, Laura Carmichael and Paul Giamatti

Run time: Two hours, four minutes Director: Simon Curtis

There’s something wonderfully soothing about returning to Downton Abbey.

The Grand Finale, the third and (allegedly) final film in the franchise, doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel — and thank goodness for that.

What it does is bring us back to the Crawleys and their staff one last time, reminding us why we’ve enjoyed spending so many hours in this world.

Set in the 1930s, the story finds Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) facing a public scandal that threatens her reputation, while Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) wrestles with the uncomfortable prospect of stepping back as the estate’s future comes into question.

Meanwhile, Cora (Elizabeth McGovern), Edith (Laura Carmichael), and Isobel (Penelope Wilton) each deal with the quiet challenges of ageing, family, and shifting times.

Beneath stairs, the staff continue to keep the grand house running, even as whispers of modernity creep closer. It’s not a plot that will get your heart racing, but then again, Downton has never been about adrenaline.

And that’s precisely the appeal. The stakes here are modest, the drama gentle, and the pace unhurried. Your pulse will remain steady from start to finish, and frankly, that’s part of the charm.

Watching Downton has always felt like slipping into warm pyjamas — comfortable, familiar, and exactly what you need when the outside world feels a little too loud.

That said, the film isn’t without its imperfections.

At just over two hours, it does start to drag in places.

Some scenes feel stretched, and trimming 20 minutes wouldn’t have hurt. And while loyal fans will delight in catching up with their favourite characters, newcomers may struggle to find an entry point – the film offers little hand-holding for those unfamiliar with the Crawley clan.

Still, the costumes dazzle, the house glows, and the performances hit their usual sweet spot.

It’s nostalgia cinema through and through. You come for the characters - not the twists - and the film delivers a gentle, affectionate farewell.

There’s nothing here to shock or surprise, but if you love Downton, you’ll find yourself smiling — maybe misty-eyed – and certainly content.

Rating: 8/10

By Mike Clarke