Overview

• The two-hour feature is now in theaters (Sept. 12), capping a 15-year franchise that spanned six TV seasons and two previous films.
• Set in 1930, the story centers on Lady Mary’s highly scrutinized divorce and her stewardship of the estate as the family navigates financial strain, changing norms, and a respectful tribute to Maggie Smith.
• Creator Julian Fellowes says the original-cast storyline is complete, while leaving open the possibility of future Downton-related projects without this ensemble.
• The reunion of familiar faces is joined by newcomers including Arty Froushan as Noël Coward and Alessandro Nivola as Gus Sambrook, with Simon Curtis directing and Fellowes scripting.
• Early reception is strong, with Collider citing a 91% Rotten Tomatoes critics score and 98% audience score, and cast reports describing emotional responses at screenings.