MickyG333

8.2 stars.

This movie is a grand affair, because we get to see the best of all our beloved staff, and they are all in good form. Unfortunately, this story doesn't provide much depth for any particular character, just brushes the surface for all of them. In that respect, it feels a bit shallow, but that's fine, what did we expect? The audience wants to see all our favorite people, but 'Downton Abbey' probably needed to be 4 hours long to fully satisfy (and that's too long).

I rated the TV series 9.5 stars, because as a whole for a show, it's one of my all time favorites. My rating system for movies is somewhat different. 'Downton Abbey' the film is just like a two-part episode of the series. The difference is imperceptible, therefore it's a great movie, but not out-of-this-world great. Could it have been better? I doubt it.

I saw every episode, some of them twice, and without a doubt it's difficult to differentiate this from any good episode of the original series. And since it's not really distinguishable, I'll give it the rating it deserves. If you like the series, you will like the movie, it's as simple as that. Will you absolutely adore the movie, probably not; but I feel it fits as an extension of the last season. It's a bit in the future, not very far, and the story is bold enough to allow for the royal family to visit the Abbey. On the other hand, the production is somewhat safe. I prefer it that way, for now, but I hope they took some liberties with the sequel. And of course, the finale film was recently released, so I'm looking forward to seeing it ASAP. Enjoy!

6.1 stars.

I can't imagine the brainwashing that happened in the situation, but the film doesn't sufficiently lay the groundwork for the maniacal behavior of the perpetrator and the nonsensical subservience of the victims. I truly can't comprehend how seemingly intelligent young adults could be manipulated to this extent, and how any pied piper criminal could so substantially hypnotize these students. In other words, the movie gives us an unrealistic depiction of a charismatic maniac systematically and effortlessly coercing all these people. To imagine intelligent and generally balanced individuals could be so effectively bamboozled, is beyond me. The gaslighting is outrageous and not believable whatsoever.

The film insufficiently portrays the scenario, feels more like a Lifetime or USA production, is flimsy full of holes, is low quality storytelling, and yet quite troubling nonetheless. I cringed at the audacity. It's a bold and outlandish attempt, yet still I shudder.

8.3 stars.

There aren't a lot of good movies in the 70s as far as I'm concerned, but this one is as good as any movie in any era since film was invented.

If this is your first time, you are in for a treat. I can't believe I never saw this. I've avoided it for the past 40 years, because I never felt it would appeal to me. Something about films in the 70s and the basic premise of this story just isn't attractive at first glance. But once you dive in, like any great classic, it grows on you and grows and washes over your emotions like a flood. I am amazed with the directing, acting, editing and sound. Everything is just brilliant. It does not feel like the 70s, it feels like a high quality 90s.

Jack had a way with performing. His character McMurphy is nothing like I've seen. He's authentic and original, and unlike any of Jack's other characters in all of his movies. He really nailed the nuances of this role. It's hard to describe Mac's personality, somewhere between nonchalant and the best friend everyone wants, and I really like him.

Enjoy.