05

Loyal fans of the Downton Abbey series and those who have been following the post-series developments would likely be in the know that one character would not be returning as a cast member. From watching the second part to the movie franchise, “Downton Abbey: A New Era”, viewers would learn of Violet Grantham’s death, otherwise also known as the Dowager Countess. Given this news, the latest sequel picks up from that point. With Lady Mary at the helm, the Crawley family is presented with a series of events that challenge their resilience, set in the backdrop of 1930s Britain. As you might expect, new relationships blossom, while old ones are put to the test. More secrets from the past are set to be unveiled, affecting the present-day.

Other than Violet Crawley’s death in the period-drama type film, Dame Maggie Smith passed away in late-September 2024. So, although she’ll not be there in fiction and in real-life, her presence will surely be felt – from the start of the film till the end.

Without the towering presence and the wise words of Violet Crawley, the other members in the household find their way to navigate through some of the toughest moments – either in unison or alone. This will be examined and central throughout the film, creating a sense of longing, tension and need for recollection of memories, as new ones unfold.

With strong tones of reflection and closure, you can expect a fitting and a poignant ending to the film series.

And whether or not, you choose to remember her as the teacher from Miss Jean Brodie, as the stern Professor McGonagall, or reminisce over her performance in Sister Act or even as the Dowager Countess, I think we can all agree that Dame Maggie Smith is that polished person you’d not want to mess with.

The English film director and producer Simon Curtis will return to direct this third and final installment, after having done the same for the second part. The original 2019 Downton Abbey film was directed by Michael Angler, an American director and TV producer. The person behind all the three film screenplays is none other than Julian Fellowes, also an actor-novelist and director.

To date, there has yet to be any update as to whether the film will be shown in Malaysian cinemas. However, what is quite certain is, those in the UK and US can expect a September 2025 movie release.

Until then, I’m gonna listen to the OST “Did I Make the Most of Loving You”, the opening theme song that greets viewers and the one tune that started it all.