This movie-trilogy capper spawned from the globally successful period drama TV show sees most of the main players return as the story moves on to 1930 and a changing societal landscape that threatens the cosy monied upper-class way of life enjoyed by the Grantham dynasty. Indeed, amidst a rather threadbare plot, the theme of change weighs heavily throughout - older staff members moving on, the ongoing financial impact of the Great Crash, the tension between tradition/old-fashioned values and newer attitudes (focused by Lady Mary's scandalous divorce) - playing alongside the characters' own and frequent wistful nostalgia and the growing acceptance pf the end of an era. Inevitably, the Julian Fellowes writing machine delivers some touching moments and a surprising number of genuinely funny quips, barbs and reactions, as the notably ageing older core cast gets its moderate last hurrah in a light but well-crafted script. Once again every effort is made to make The Grand Finale look sumptuous and cinematic, with this instalment set in the lush height of English Summer. As a 'grand finale' it may a little restrained, but it amply delivers the cosy and comfortable viewing experience that viewers of the original TV show lapped up, delivered by an experienced and reliable cast whose characters are wrapped up to good effect, all capped off with a delightful final cameo appearance.
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