The costumes and settings are so perfectly in tune with the time period. It is filled with secrets and, at times, mini-scandals which is exactly what makes it so compelling to watch. One can hardly wait to find out what would happen in the next episode.
The servants and the wealthy family members live separate lives but they are connected in so many ways and that really makes for great drama and humor.
Although, honesty is not rampant in the series, it does occasionally prove to be the best thing. There are also important lessons such as dealing with change and, for the younger generation, standing up for their principles. It shows how the younger generation has to stand up and express their opinions. Also, there are some social lessons that make this series beneficial.
On the whole, it provides drama-packed entertainment in a unique way due to the influence of the period in which it takes place and also, the connections between the different classes. It has been criticized for presenting the two classes cooperating so well when, in actuality, that was rarely the case.
It shows that people are people no matter what class they come from. We recommend this for older teens and adults, ages 13 to 18 plus adults. And, we give it 5 out of 5 stars for its excellence in production, writing and authenticity. The DVD set includes over 40 minutes of bonus video to see what happens behind the scenes in Season 5.
This acclaimed ensemble is joined by guest stars Harriet Walter ("Atonement"), reprising her role as Lady Shackleton, and Peter Egan ("Death at a Funeral"), who returns as Lord Flintshire, together with completely new characters played by Richard E. Grant ("Girls"), Anna Chancellor ("The Hour"), and Rade Sherbedgia ("24").
KIDS FIRST! Goes Local: Submit a review & win!
