Upstairs Downstairs
As the period drama makes an outstanding
revival in England (Upstairs Downstairs and Downton Abbey),
the BBC have revived one of their most endearing period dramas with
Upstairs Downstairs. With a fresh new cast and some amazing sets, the
2011 incarnation of Upstairs Downstairs, although similar to the
original 1970's series is actually quite removed. Like Star Trek,
Upstairs Downstairs has received a modern reboot but the main theme of
the original TV series is still there, especially the dynamics between
the servants and the rich with all those filthy secrets!
Set during the depression of the 1930's,
1936 to be precise, the Bellamy home is now in different hands and
housekeeper Rose (Jean Marsh) returns to serve new owners Sir Hallam (Ed
Stoppard), his wife Agnes (Keeley Hawes) and his mother Lady Maud
Holland (Eileen Atkins). As Rose begins her paid servitude of the
Hallam aristocracy, she soon discovers that not much has changed at 165
Eaton Place, especially when the secrets of all those involved with this
family clash in some very entertaining and complex ways.
As Rose is the head of the servants at
Eaton Place, the series creators slowly give the viewer enough
tantalising titbits to make these characters quite interesting and
whether that is the Butler of the House, Pritchard (Adrian Scarborough)
or Ivy who is played delightfully by Ellie Kendrick, all the characters
are quite realistic in this limited TV series. However the series is not
all about the servants and the aristocrats such as Sir Hallam Holland
has his own motivations and connections to better his life, even the
beautiful Claire Foy as Lady Persie, the temptress of the show. There's
a train crash just waiting to happen.
If you enjoyed Downton Abbey but thought
the adult content was a little too much, than Upstairs Downstairs is
definitely the answer to your family friendly diet. With lies and
scandals hiding in everyone's closets, Upstairs Downstairs is a good old
fashioned period drama from start to finish and best of all, it's all
contained in one accessible DVD with no knowledge of the previous series
necessary. Entertaining to say the least!
Special Features
Exclusive DVD Feature - Upstairs Downstairs
- Behind Closed Doors
