Episode #2.6

I don't know what these other reviews are talking about, calling it filler. Storylines are continued and new characters are introduced. In a show like this (most shows in general), so-called "filler episodes" don't actually exist.

Loved all the new storylines, though I predicted all three major "twists" even before they were even introduced. Great episode.

One of the main plot elements here is a badly disfigured man who claims to be the heir to Downton. Edith takes a shine to him (any man who will give her a sideways look). Meanwhile we have the appearance of Ethel, this time with a child, sired by that jerk who was in the hospital. Lord Grantham is starting to feel under-appreciated and has eyes for a pretty new maid. Sibyl and Branson are beginning to make serious plans.

Carson is offered by Sir Richard Carlisle to work for him and his fiancée Lady Mary in their would-be new home. A wounded soldier, whose face is unrecognizable because of scars, claims that he is Patrick Crawley. Edith believes him, but the others are suspicious. Is he the real deal or simply an impostor?

To be honest, I did not like the storyline of this "Patrick Crawley". It is far-fetched and unrealistic, I think.

But well, this is still a good episode. The ending is shocking.

Agree with other reviewers' assessment of this as filler, or soap-opera -- which season two has largely been, though often rising above. With The Gordon character, we find ourselves wandering off into Anastasia territory -- which feels like a sidetrack. And it is: though nicely done, it feels like a bit of a cheat. However, it's also a true angle on the fragility of the primogeniture system which has been this series' driving plot from episode 1.

Speaking of plot, pursuing the Ethel line is important but seems outside the scope of this series ... however, there is a nice contrast presented with the war widow who replaces her position.

Only recently acquired the DVDs of this show and was looking forward to it after hearing plenty of positive reviews. A bit surprised to find then that Downton Abbey often flirts with soap opera territory, especially so far in season two. This particular episode is where the flirting ends and soap opera-hood is embraced wholeheartedly.

Really disappointed, but they tell me that the show returns to its Season One territory soon, especially with the Christmas Special at the end of this season. Will plod on, but a bit more warily, and certainly with less expectations now...

Adding a few lines, since apparently I need at least ten to submit a valid review. I can see what the show-runners have been going through with this season. I can see it is quite a task to come up with content. But then.. I don't have the backdrop of the Great War to work with, and I daresay the show-runners simply don't care that they have descended into some hackneyed stuff.