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Downton Abbey: The Official Film Companion
It's been three years since the doors of Downton Abbey closed with scenes of celebration upstairs and down on New Year's Eve, 1925. Millions of fans around the world were heartbroken, but Downton fans need fret no longer. This fall, the Earl of Grantham and his wife, the Countess of Grantham, invite you to return to Downton Abbey and spend a few hours with Lady Mary and her husband Henry Talbot, Lady Edith (now a Marchioness) and her husband Marquess "Bertie" Pelham, Tom Branson, the Dowager Countess, Master George, Miss Sybbie, Miss Marigold, Mrs. Crawley, Carson, Mrs. Hughes, Mrs. Patmore, Anna, Mr. Bates, Thomas, Daisy, Miss Baxter, Mr. Molesly, the people in the village of Downton and all the rest of the series' beloved characters in a new feature film written by Julian Fellowes called simply Downton Abbey: The Movie.
Created by the entire team that made the phenomenally successful, gorgeously outfitted and decorated BBC/PBS series, the film opens in the US on September 20th. Downton Abbey: The Making of the Film is the official companion book to accompany it. Filled throughout with full color photographs from the film and interviews with the actors, Downton Abbey: The Making of the Film will be the book every Downton fan who's cried into his or her Earl Grey missing the series will want to own. Downton Abbey: The Movie promises to be one of the biggest films of the fall and Downton Abbey: The Making of the Film, will be the book that fans will cherish until the Earl and Duchess open their doors to the world again.
Created by the entire team that made the phenomenally successful, gorgeously outfitted and decorated BBC/PBS series, the film opens in the US on September 20th. Downton Abbey: The Making of the Film is the official companion book to accompany it. Filled throughout with full color photographs from the film and interviews with the actors, Downton Abbey: The Making of the Film will be the book every Downton fan who's cried into his or her Earl Grey missing the series will want to own. Downton Abbey: The Movie promises to be one of the biggest films of the fall and Downton Abbey: The Making of the Film, will be the book that fans will cherish until the Earl and Duchess open their doors to the world again.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published September 17, 2019
59 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 22, 2019
After being threatened with bodily harm for picking this book up before we saw the movie, I realize I am walking on thin ice writing this review, so I will try to keep spoilers to a minimum.
That said, this is a great book for Abbey fans. While they do tell you what happens in the movie, they also explain why and give relevant background information. Sometimes I miss certain facts for various reasons, you know, such as munching on snacks or trying to cop a feel under the blankets, so having things pointed out helps. Of course, as she says, if I paid attention I won't need the book.
But the book is full of beautiful full color photos of some of my favorite characters of the silver screen! We see them in their costumes, and even scenes as they are being filmed.
The book is full of amazing facts. Did you know that the dress makers try to recreate actual dresses? Some were so expense to recreate that I think one actual museum piece was worn. Military uniforms were matched down to the correct medals, though most would never know it.
What I would have given to be an extra in the cast! A regular military unit that still uses horses were there, as well as professional dancers and musicians.
Do you know that a family still lives in the Downton Abbey house?
Oh I could go on and on, but I have given away too much all ready. If you like the show, you will love the movie. Therefore, buy the book.
That said, this is a great book for Abbey fans. While they do tell you what happens in the movie, they also explain why and give relevant background information. Sometimes I miss certain facts for various reasons, you know, such as munching on snacks or trying to cop a feel under the blankets, so having things pointed out helps. Of course, as she says, if I paid attention I won't need the book.
But the book is full of beautiful full color photos of some of my favorite characters of the silver screen! We see them in their costumes, and even scenes as they are being filmed.
The book is full of amazing facts. Did you know that the dress makers try to recreate actual dresses? Some were so expense to recreate that I think one actual museum piece was worn. Military uniforms were matched down to the correct medals, though most would never know it.
What I would have given to be an extra in the cast! A regular military unit that still uses horses were there, as well as professional dancers and musicians.
Do you know that a family still lives in the Downton Abbey house?
Oh I could go on and on, but I have given away too much all ready. If you like the show, you will love the movie. Therefore, buy the book.
November 1, 2019
WARNING: Do not read this before you see the movie, as it discusses the plot in a lot of detail.
I have always loved the companion books to the television series, as these give such insight into the socio-political context of the world that Julian Fellowes depicts so brilliantly in his writing. The movie companion is no different, with Emma Marriott examining all the real events that underpin the screenplay.
Each of the characters/actors get their own chapter, including those new specifically to the movie itself. Their role in the movie, and in the larger Downton Abbey multiverse, is placed under the spotlight. Marriott brings out the quirkiness and humanity of the actors, many who refer to being involved in this phenomenon as a career highlight.
Then there are also detailed sections about the actual making of the movie. Particularly fascinating is the insight into how the movie differs from the television show in terms of cinematography (yes, there are drone shots as well), and the recreation of all the well-known sets at Shepperton Studios, including a host of new ones. The magnificent work of the costume department is highlighted, along with a generous selection of stunning photographs.
I must say I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, which perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the television show. Julian Fellowes is a genius at such complex ensemble interplay, and he is firing on all cylinders here. Not only do all our favourite characters get their space to shine, but several stellar new ones are introduced as well.
Given the current state of political and economic flux in the world, it is perhaps no wonder that something as creakingly anachronistic as the Downton Abbey movie has done so well at the box office, immediately leading to speculation about a sequel. Yes, the world of privilege and aristocracy it depicts is itself on the cusp of change in 1927. But perhaps it is a guilty pleasure for many of us to get a glimpse at a world long-gone, where black and white are not nearly as grey as they are today.
I have always loved the companion books to the television series, as these give such insight into the socio-political context of the world that Julian Fellowes depicts so brilliantly in his writing. The movie companion is no different, with Emma Marriott examining all the real events that underpin the screenplay.
Each of the characters/actors get their own chapter, including those new specifically to the movie itself. Their role in the movie, and in the larger Downton Abbey multiverse, is placed under the spotlight. Marriott brings out the quirkiness and humanity of the actors, many who refer to being involved in this phenomenon as a career highlight.
Then there are also detailed sections about the actual making of the movie. Particularly fascinating is the insight into how the movie differs from the television show in terms of cinematography (yes, there are drone shots as well), and the recreation of all the well-known sets at Shepperton Studios, including a host of new ones. The magnificent work of the costume department is highlighted, along with a generous selection of stunning photographs.
I must say I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, which perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the television show. Julian Fellowes is a genius at such complex ensemble interplay, and he is firing on all cylinders here. Not only do all our favourite characters get their space to shine, but several stellar new ones are introduced as well.
Given the current state of political and economic flux in the world, it is perhaps no wonder that something as creakingly anachronistic as the Downton Abbey movie has done so well at the box office, immediately leading to speculation about a sequel. Yes, the world of privilege and aristocracy it depicts is itself on the cusp of change in 1927. But perhaps it is a guilty pleasure for many of us to get a glimpse at a world long-gone, where black and white are not nearly as grey as they are today.
January 14, 2020
This is a wonderful companion book for the excellent Downtown Abbey movie that was released last year. My husband and I were devoted followers of the TV series and saw the movie in the theater when it came out. It just so happened that I got the DVD from the library at the same time that I got this book. It’s great to read all the trivia in the book in addition to the special features included on the DVD.
If you haven’t seen the film yet, do that before you pick up this book because there are a lot of spoilers in it.
If you haven’t seen the film yet, do that before you pick up this book because there are a lot of spoilers in it.
September 28, 2019
This is as much a history of this period as a script of the movie.
This is chock full of movie spoilers and should only be read after viewing the movie.
Fun for fans.
This is chock full of movie spoilers and should only be read after viewing the movie.
Fun for fans.
October 27, 2019
It was fun to look at after seeing the movie.
I especially enjoyed the designs of the wardrobes for the cast.
I especially enjoyed the designs of the wardrobes for the cast.
December 29, 2019
This companion to the recent Downton Abbey film is a nice balance of British royal history, film stills, film logistics, costume design, and period authenticity. Downton Abbey made a successful and seamless jump to the big screen. This book illuminated the daunting task of recreating a sumptuous tapestry of delicious detail. This book helped me appreciate the series on a much deeper level.
November 2, 2019
If you've seen the movie, you're going to absolutely love this companion book. Photos of the cast/country houses/historical plot points let you study up close and personal what may have slipped past you in the theatre. Oh the clothes!!! I live in a dream world about this series and film so I skimmed over much of the behind-the-scenes sections, but this is a gem of a book.
January 19, 2020
For any fan of the new Downton Abbey movie this book is a must have! It is beautifully produced and packed with fascinating facts about the production. Whether you love the cinematography or are passionate about the costumes you won't be disappointed. Emma Marriott does a wonderful job of providing research and historical background information about the creation of the movie, the plot lines and the many differences in filming as opposed to the tv series. A worthwhile investment for any DA fan!
September 17, 2019
This book is wonderful and an excellent addition to the other Downton Abbey books available.
However there is quite a serious error (at least in the ebook edition). In the section about Princess Mary it says she has 4 brothers and provides their names.
She actually had 5 brothers, Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester is not mentioned. Hopefully this information is added to future editions.
However there is quite a serious error (at least in the ebook edition). In the section about Princess Mary it says she has 4 brothers and provides their names.
She actually had 5 brothers, Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester is not mentioned. Hopefully this information is added to future editions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2019
Beautiful pictures
October 4, 2024
This is a great book. I read it and learned so much more. For example the food used in the movie had to be prepared and re-made for each scene as they shoot, edit and re-shoot. There is also alot about the culture of how the servants serve on the left side, the incredible fashion designs including the actually tiara worn by the queen, and how it is not proper for the servants to address the king directly as Mosely mistakenly does.
I read this and then re-watched the movie and I got much more out of it. I highly recommend this book for Downton Abbey lovers.
I read this and then re-watched the movie and I got much more out of it. I highly recommend this book for Downton Abbey lovers.
January 13, 2020
This was just a fun read because I love Downton Abbey. I loved the movie and it was just filled with beautiful pictures and background info.
January 22, 2020
Interesting background and comments. Lovely pictures and a good companion to the movie. Enjoyed both the movie and the book.
January 25, 2020
For Fans!
October 27, 2020
Gorgeous photos and some fun behind-the-scenes info and tidbits. But no explanation of why Mr. Mason was cut out of the film and Daisy was left stuck in the kitchen!
March 2, 2022
I love Downton Abbey but was concerned when I picked this one up that I might be too far distanced from having seen the movie to get much out of the book. I was pleasantly surprised, however, to see that the book not only delivers with plenty of behind the scenes info, but also summarizes the plot of the movie (briefly) as it goes along.
Like other books about the show, this one about the film is filled with beautiful color photographs of the locations and characters. I loved hearing from the actors about what the experience was like for them. It made me want to start watching the tv series and movie all over again.
Like other books about the show, this one about the film is filled with beautiful color photographs of the locations and characters. I loved hearing from the actors about what the experience was like for them. It made me want to start watching the tv series and movie all over again.
December 26, 2022
A lovely revisiting of the movie and Downton....
November 3, 2019
Not what I expected
I was expecting this book to read like it was the movie. There was a little disappointment. This book is about the making of the movie. It is very character detailed and historical detail on the king and queen. The book was therefore very interesting.
I was expecting this book to read like it was the movie. There was a little disappointment. This book is about the making of the movie. It is very character detailed and historical detail on the king and queen. The book was therefore very interesting.
October 28, 2019
This book is fantastic. Tons of great behind the scenes info about the movie and lots of royal family info as well. The only caveat is that it does contain movie spoilers so be sure to read it after you’ve seen the movie.
October 21, 2019
Nice companion book chock full of photos of the cast, locations, costumes and insights from the production crew. Be forewarned: there are spoilers aplenty, so you may want to see the movie first!
October 8, 2019
If you're a Downtown Abbey fan don't miss this coffee table book. Filled with glorious pictures of places and characters we love there is also info on all the background of making the movie. Be sure to see the movie first as there are many plot spoilers in the book. But the book is a gem.
October 7, 2019
Lately my brain has been overloaded with work, so this book was a real eyes-candy, especially after I saw the movie. It just an added bonus to look thru the book until the DVD come out.
October 5, 2019
Loved the movie, loved this book! Beautiful photos, lots of behind-the-scenes info, plus historical background as well. A must have for all Downton fans.
September 27, 2019
A quick read, and absolutely delightful!! I loved seeing all of the different costumes and ideas, but I would have loved to have seen more behind the scenes from the cast. This was lovely though and makes me want to see the movie again (for a third time hehe)
October 11, 2019
Fabulous book, packed with information about the film and pictures. I also like there is a lot of history behind the scenes and places.
Only thing I will say is don’t read it until you have seen the film as it does give a lot away
Only thing I will say is don’t read it until you have seen the film as it does give a lot away
December 27, 2020
The long-awaited Downton Abbey film of course is going to have various books accompanying it (as did the TV show) and the book is what it says on the cover: the official film companion. The text takes the reader through the behind the scenes parts of the film, from the cast (returning and new), the sets, costumes, time period it draws from, etc. There are lots of pictures of the cast, sets, scenes, behind the scenes and more.
There's not much more to say to this. If you're familiar with the show, the film wasn't going to really shock you in any way. If you've read any of the books that have been officially released in conjunction with the show, this book is in a similar vein. Great for hardcore fans, perhaps, but if you're a casual reader you may or may not care for it.
I would say for me it was a nice read but I wish I had gotten it from the library instead. I thought it talked a little too much about the costumes (which I'm aware are part of the huge draw of the show but that wasn't really for me). I suppose I wanted more about the cast (new and returning) but most interviews probably cover that and this book is dedicated to more of behind the scenes for the passionate fans who love these kinds of detail.
It's also been awhile since the film has been released but just in case you're discovering the entity for the first time and haven't watched the movie: there are spoilers so don't read this if you don't want to know.
Bought this as a bargain book, would have preferred to have borrowed it from the library if possible (but at this time I'm not comfortable handling physical books from the library). I don't know what the digital version is like but this is also definitely a book that you should probably get the physical version of if this is something you want to keep or get the full visual experience the book can give. Would make an excellent gift for a fan.
There's not much more to say to this. If you're familiar with the show, the film wasn't going to really shock you in any way. If you've read any of the books that have been officially released in conjunction with the show, this book is in a similar vein. Great for hardcore fans, perhaps, but if you're a casual reader you may or may not care for it.
I would say for me it was a nice read but I wish I had gotten it from the library instead. I thought it talked a little too much about the costumes (which I'm aware are part of the huge draw of the show but that wasn't really for me). I suppose I wanted more about the cast (new and returning) but most interviews probably cover that and this book is dedicated to more of behind the scenes for the passionate fans who love these kinds of detail.
It's also been awhile since the film has been released but just in case you're discovering the entity for the first time and haven't watched the movie: there are spoilers so don't read this if you don't want to know.
Bought this as a bargain book, would have preferred to have borrowed it from the library if possible (but at this time I'm not comfortable handling physical books from the library). I don't know what the digital version is like but this is also definitely a book that you should probably get the physical version of if this is something you want to keep or get the full visual experience the book can give. Would make an excellent gift for a fan.
March 30, 2020
I absolutely loved finding out more about how real history and events influenced the movie -- to outfits the costume designers replicated from photos, to making the butlers and staff serve with their right hand, even if they were left handed, because being left handed was looked down upon, to hiring a real parade master to train the horses! This was such a fun companion to the movie, I just wish there would have been more behind the scenes info from the actors. Makes me want to watch the movie again :)
November 15, 2022
An official companion to the first Downton Abbey movie. It provides not only historical background, but insight into the characters and the plot lines. It also gives fun behind the scenes information. The writer's of the movie clearly did their research and went to great effort to be historically accurate. The movie centers around a royal visit to Downton and this book provides a lot of information about the real historical figures portrayed which is helpful. I would warn not to read this before seeing the movie as it has lots of spoilers. Overall, a fun read for any Downton Abbey fan.
November 4, 2020
This was a great book, and gave good insight on how the film was made. I liked how it went from the beginning of the movie to the end giving details and stories from the cast, crew and the real life people portrayed in the film. However DO NOT READ this book if you have not seen the movie. This book tells you the storyline of the film and how each part of the film was made from the set/location, costumes and historical information used in the film. This was a good book and a fantastic movie!
March 14, 2020
I loved seeing pictures from behind the scenes of the Downton Abbey movie. This is a beautiful book that introduces us to the new actors/actresses in the movie and also gives some historical facts about the King and Queen. We get to meet behind the scenes workers and see how the movie came together. This is a great resource for Downton Abbey fans.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews