The popular TV show Downton Abbey ended after six seasons, but it continued with two sequel movies and a third one on the way.
The series is set in early 20th century England and follows the lives of the residents of Downton Abbey.
Creator Julian Fellowes is known for his skill in blending real history with fictional characters. This is evident in both Downton Abbey and his recent series, The Gilded Age.
Downton Abbey has always incorporated historical events, such as World War I and the sinking of the Titanic, into its storyline. The movies follow the same pattern.
Although the first Downton Abbey movie in 2019 doesn’t focus on a specific historical event, it’s based on some truth.
The plot revolves around King George V and Queen Mary visiting Downton Abbey, which is not entirely accurate since the Crawley family is fictional.
However, there are historical precedents for such events, although they’re exaggerated for dramatic effect in the film.
Downton Abbey Plot
The idea of making a movie after the Downton Abbey TV show ended seemed odd, as the characters’ storylines were already wrapped up satisfactorily.
However, creator Julian Fellowes found a solution. Instead of introducing new tragedies or dangers, he gave the characters an honor.
This event creates drama at Downton, with conflicts downstairs, a plot to harm the King, and revelations about the Royal family.
To ensure they can serve the King and Queen themselves, the Downton staff tricks the Royal servants into leaving.
Meanwhile, Tom Branson, Robert’s son-in-law, is approached by someone he suspects is investigating him. But it turns out to be someone seeking help to stop an assassination attempt on the King.
Other subplots involve Violet Crawley trying to secure an inheritance for Robert, Edith and Cora preventing Bertie from traveling with the Prince.
On the other hand, Edith gives birth, and Tom unintentionally helping Princess Mary’s marriage. Although the story is fictional, it includes historical elements.
In the movie, new characters like the King, Queen, and Princess are based on real historical figures.
While their portrayal in the film may not be completely accurate, the basic facts about them are true.
For example, King George V reigned from 1910 to 1936, and the movie is set in 1927, so he is the correct monarch for that time period.
Historical research shows that royals like King George V and Queen Mary did visit aristocratic families in the countryside.
However, there was no specific visit like the one depicted in the movie in 1927.
During a royal visit, there are usually public events like parades and balls. However, as with many historical elements in Downton Abbey, the events may not be portrayed exactly as they happened in real life.
The biggest difference lies in the downstairs storyline. In the movie, the servants’ plot revolves around the Royal family.
This brings some of their own servants to replace the staff at Downton Abbey, leading to conflict among the servants.
However, this isn’t entirely accurate. While Queen Mary did travel with a few servants, it wasn’t a full replacement of the house staff.
There wasn’t a new cook to upset Mrs. Patmore, just a footman, a page, two dressers, two chauffeurs, a lady-in-waiting, a maid for the lady-in-waiting, and a detective.
This may seem like a lot, but compared to the large entourage depicted in Downton Abbey, it’s relatively modest.
