Monday, March 2, 2015

Full Circle


         Watching the final episode of Downton Abbey Season 5 was like enjoying an excellent meal: it was extremely satisfying and yet it left me looking forward to more. So many loose ends were tied up, yet at the same time bread crumbs were laid down for future plot lines. Thankfully the cliff hangers we were left with were pleasant this time. Going into next season, there does not appear to be an imminent threat of imprisonment or peril.

         So many stories came full circle in the season finale. Rose started the season as a flighty self-centered girl. She finished the season as a much more mature married woman. She loves Atticus for all the right reasons, and despite her father-in-law’s prejudice against her, she proved to be a loyal member of the Sindeby family, deserving of their trust. Off she goes to America, to turn New York on its head.

         Thomas started the season off much as he has been for the past four seasons, as a conniving backstabbing schemer. Despite trying to undermine Baxter, her steadfast friendship pulled him out of a very dark place emotionally. Baxter’s kindness and friendship started the thawing process of his heart. Thomas ended the season as a team player, showing kindness to members of the staff. He still has a conniving streak, however, he’s begun to scheme against more worthy victims. Lord Sindeby and his prudish butler Stolle found out what happens when you tick off Thomas (both deserved a measure of discomfort).

         Violet, Isobel and Mrs. Hughes all received proposals of marriage and in Violet’s case elopement, despite their mature years. Who says love is just for the young?? Although all three were delighted by, and even flattered by the attention, only Mrs. Hughes appears to be headed down the aisle. Violet turned away Prince Kuragan’s advances because he was married to the Princess who was still alive. She acknowledged that however much she disliked the Princess (who was no Sally Sunshine, I can’t blame the Prince for wanting to get away from her) the Princess saved her from “a life in the shadows.”  Her debt had been repaid.

         Isobel’s impediment was of an entirely different nature. Dickie Merton’s horrid sons ruined their chance of happiness. I have never approved of the adage that children should be seen but not heard, however, the Gray boys are far too vocal for me. In the end, Isobel was correct in refusing Lord Merton. Who wants to spend the holidays scowling at each other over the savory for the rest of your life? And what if Dickie dies first? Isobel would be alone with the gold dust twins, Not an appealing prospect.

         Now for Mrs. Hughes, there have been hints all season that a proposal from Mr. Carson was coming. Mr. Carson confessed early on in the season that he didn’t like being on the opposite side of an issue from Mrs. Hughes. Mr. Carson’s determination to show Mrs. Hughes that he was open to the modern world by giving Mrs. Patmore financial advice was sweet. Finally, wanting to invest in a property with Mrs. Hughes for their retirement indicated that he was looking into his future and he wanted her there with him. I was happier than I have been at any point in the entire history of the series when Mrs. Hughes said , “Of course I’ll marry you, you boobie.” Please, please, nothing will go wrong for them.

         Tom has come full circle as well. He started out as the chauffer winning fair Sybil’s heart. Through his perseverance he worked his way into the hearts of Cora, Mary, and Edith, then finally Robert. Robert’s tribute to Tom at the Christmas party was heartfelt. Tom helped to turn the estate around when the family needed him the most. I know it’s the Pollyanna streak in me, but I’m still hoping he and Sibbie will stay. I’m not sure what it will take for him to stay, I just feel that he’s made such progress at Downton both with the family and for the economic benefit of the estate he should stay. Sibbie would also get to grow up in that adorable nursery with George and Marigold. Don’t go Tom!!

         Mary was swimming with suitors as the season began. She decided against Tony, but only after sleeping with him. Charles is off in pre-WWII Poland (hopefully he’ll be back before the political fireworks start over there), his feelings for Mary seemed to me to be unclear. We didn’t see or hear from Evelyn Napier all season. Then at the eleventh hour Harry Talbott made his entrance. Mary is definitely interested in him, you can tell because she tried to make him feel uncomfortable. I have a feeling that Mr. Talbott is no one’s fool though. I do think it ironic that his sport is cars, when Mary lost her husband in a car accident. We’ll see if they meet up in Yorkshire next season.

         Second to Mrs. Hughes’s’ and Mr. Carson’s news, I was so relieved to hear Edith say she was happy. If anyone deserved a moment of happiness it is Edith. Thanks to Robert who told her there was nothing for which she needs to be forgiven and that Edith and Marigold must absolutely stay at Downton. Lord Hexham’s land agent seems to be interested in her and she in him. He is not quite what she’s used to, she went from a Lord (Anthony Strallon), to a newspaper publisher, to a land agent who admits he has no ambition. Oh well, if it makes her happy. Perhaps, he’ll be Downton’s new land agent when Tom leaves.

         Dear Daisy has grown so much over the course of the season. She went from being “rubbish with numbers” to sitting for her matriculation exams. She’s gained an interest in politics, and art. Who knows where these new interests will take her.

         I hope Miss Baxter and Mr. Molesely will continue with their friendship. Who knows, next season we may have a double wedding downstairs. Mr. Spratt and Mrs. Danker have already lost their appeal for me. I don’t particularly like either one of them. She’s a lush, who got poor Andy the footman in financial trouble. He’s an annoying tattletale who likes everything his own way.

         Robert and Cora are back on solid footing. Their relationship was tested and they have come out stronger for it. We’ll have to see if Robert’s “tummy” ache is only an ulcer. Will that be a source of drama, is it actually more serious?

         Finally we come to Anna and Bates. We learned that Anna was abused by her step-father, making her even more sympathetic (I didn’t think that was possible). At the end of the day, despite all the dodgey police practices, Anna and Bates were reunited for Christmas. Here’s hoping there will be the pitter patter of little Batlette feet next season.

         These are the characters I think we’ve said good-bye to: Sarah Bunting, Tony Gillingham, Mable Lane Fox, Prince Kuragan, Princess Kuragan, Susan Flintshire, Shrimpie Flintshire, Jimmy the footman, Tim Drew, Margie Drew, Dickie Merton, and his monster sons, and (sniff) Isis the dog.

         These are the characters who I think will have a limited appearance next season: Rose, Atticus, Lord and Lady Sindeby, Tom and Sibbie, and Charles Blake.

         These are the characters who I think we’ll be seeing more of: Harry Talbott, Lord Hexham’s land agent and Andy the footman.

         I can’t stand the fact we’ll have to wait a full ten months before we go back to Downton. What will I do?

Monday, February 23, 2015

The B**** Is Back!



         Nooo!! Just when things have become the most compelling they’ve been all season, the season is coming to an end. The penultimate episode to season 5 left us panting for the final episode which will have, no doubt, tantalizing cliff hangers.

         Episode 6 showcased Cora at her best. Episode 7 belongs to Robert. All is forgiven, Robert, you are no longer exiled to the land of the boob.  He navigated so many emotional minefields and he did so masterfully. The way he treated Mrs. Patmore’s feelings about the war memorial was touching. I would like to think all Lords appreciated their dedicated staff and treated them with such respect. Ordering a memorial for her nephew was commendable.

         Ignoring the prejudice of the day, regarding the Sindeby’s faith, Robert showed his open-mindedness. Granted Cora’s father was Jewish so his acceptance is not newly founded. He bristled at Susan Flincher’s question about the Sindeby’s British heritage, and laughed out loud at the awkward moment at Rose’s blessing ceremony when one of the guests told Robert and Cora she thought they were brave for putting a brave face on what is an unfortunate alliance. Likewise he didn’t mind putting Lord Sindeby in his place when Shrimpy (I find it odd calling a grown man “Shrimpy”) was discussing Indian politics.

         I love the way Robert is with the children. It was delightful seeing him on the floor playing a board game with Sibbie. He also figured out for himself Edith’s secret that Marigold is her daughter with Michael Gregson. Not only did he not object, he was delighted he has another granddaughter.

         Finally, selling the Della Francesca was the tell-tale sign that Robert is catching up with the modern world. The selling of the painting showed Cora that the Bricker incident taught Robert the priceless lesson that he was taking Cora for granted. It also showed that he is willing to let go of the past in order to improve matters for the future. Well done Robert!!

         Thomas is another character whose ways seem to have changed for the better. In the last two episodes, he’s been positively helpful. He’s using his powers for good rather than evil. Saving Andy the footman from Danker’s scheme was kind. Imagine saying Thomas was kind!! Hopefully this pattern will continue. He’ll always have an edge to his personality, but if he could continue to direct his talents against more worthy targets he’ll begin to acquire the friendships he’s always wanted.

         The B**** is back. That cloud that enveloped England was the shadow of Lady Flincher returning to its shores. She is appropriately named, I flinch every time she opens her mouth. How not to make a good first impression: tell the person you are meeting that their name is odd then ask your host if they have trouble finding help, Later pronouncing to all that she and Lord Flincher were getting a divorce, hoping it would be the straw to break Lord Sindeby’s back with respect to the wedding. Lady Sindeby to the rescue, saving the wedding despite Lady Flincher’s best efforts to scuttle it. Susan Flincher is so bitter, she’ll be alone for the rest of her unhappy life.

         Rose is adorable. The way she embraces life is infectious. She knows Lord Sindeby doesn’t care for her has a daughter-in-law, but she is determined to make Atticus happy. She has her priorities in the right order. She is naïve but she will be a good wife because she loves Atticus too much to let anything get in their way.

         Prince Kuragan isn’t wasting any time (probably because he has little to waste), swooping in and asking Violet to go away with him. I almost fell off the sofa when he said they could be lovers. Talk about 50 shades of grey!! Pardon my prudish ways but-ICK!! To Violet’s credit, the fact that the Princess is still alive makes a difference to her. She may not like the Princess but she respects her position enough not to go off with Kuragan like a teenager. I don’t see Violet going off with him.

         The conversation with Kuragan did have its purpose though. It reminded Violet that life is short and it should be lived to its fullest. Despite her personal objections, she is encouraging Isobel to be happy and to let Lord Merton’s sons to take a long walk off a short pier. I want Isobel to be happy and I’m not sure she will be happy knowing the sons disapprove of her. She won’t want to break up the family albeit a dysfunctional family.

         What would Mary do without Carson? Despite seeming so confident with everyone, and positively hateful to Edith (“You’d think she invented motherhood.”), she really is a bundle of insecurities. She needs reassuring that her choices are the right ones.

         Daisy has grown the most this season. Watching her develop has been like watching the birth of the middle class in England in microcosm. She’s excited by the idea that she has choices in her life and that she’s young enough to take the opportunity to explore them. Yet, she’s tied to an older generation who has shown her more love and support than she has ever known. She needs to carve out a life for herself that is fulfilling but connected to her roots. It won’t be as a cook in someone else’s kitchen. Perhaps she’ll be the first female land agent at Downton. That may be overreaching a bit.

         The more Tom talks about leaving, the more I think he’ll stay. He’s just such a snug fit at Downton now. He and Robert have reached a détente in their political sparring. Sibbie is thriving. Why move? However, Mr. Fellowes may have introduced Marigold into the nursery to make up for Sibbie’s loss. Is it possible that the relationship I never thought feasible would come to be: Could Mary and Tom be the couple for next season thus, keeping Tom at Downton? Have we seen the last of Charles Blake?

         Alas Anna and Bates, the couple gives me ulcers. All they want to do is live a happy quiet life, but it just doesn’t appear to be in the cards for them. Do we have another season of prison visits only this time with Anna behind bars? She’s the sweetest person on Earth, and so horribly treated by Mr. Green, how can this be happening to her? Will Bates take the blame, only to have Miss Baxter say she saw the unripped ticket? This is getting increasingly more complicated. Will Anna admit what Green did to her? If she does doesn’t that cement her motive? Does she have an alibi? I know one thing, England didn’t fuss too much about civil liberties back in the day. Being thrown into a line-up without any warning doesn’t seem quite cricket to me. I’m sure Anna and Bates will be our biggest cliffhanger for next season. I can’t stand it!!

Cheers!

Monday, February 16, 2015

Cora, Cora, Cora



 
         Now we’re talking! Things are really heating up at the Abbey. So what’s going to happen is we’ll be left with the biggest cliff hanger we’ve ever experienced and we’ll have to wait a year to find out what will happen. That’s why we’re hooked!!
         Episode 7 belongs to Cora. She was fantastic, firm when she needed to be and compassionate when necessary. Ultimately, she was very strong for the family, more strong than the family gave her credit.
         Cora was understandably crushed by not being told about Marigold. The feeling of betrayal was so devastating for her. It is obvious that Rosamond has never been a mother. Her black and white view of the world showcases a person who does not appreciate that children are often raised in the grey areas of life. It is also not easy to put Violet in her place, but boy did Cora manage to do it, in such ladylike fashion. “How can you imagine I’ll ever trust you again?” Ouch.
         Cora then mustered the strength to face Edith at her place of work. She wasn’t about to be turned aside by Edith and threatened to discuss their business in front of everyone there. Shocking! Edith buckled and a private tea followed. Cora was the one who came up with the plan to keep Edith at Downton, as well as able to oversee Michael’s paper, and be mother to Marigold. Cora: Mother and problem-solver to the rescue.
         Cora handled the stuffy Lord Sindeby beautifully. Sindeby’s conversation bordered on insulting when he was asking Cora about being raised in a mixed faith home, and whether she was ashamed of her Jewish heritage. Cora shot back by saying, unlike Lord Sindeby, her family never changed their name to gain social acceptance. To quote Violet, “put that in your pipe and smoke it.”
         Finally, Cora’s compassion for Isis was so endearing. She was the first to spot Isis wasn’t well. Cora was so sympathetic to Robert’s feelings. Robert finally came out from under the ether and realized the wonderful wife he has in Cora.
         Violet has definitely revealed a softer side this season. We’ve learned about her affair with Prince Kuragan and her choice to return to the fold for the good of the family, she felt the sting of Cora’s admonition, and the reason behind her apparent disapproval of Isobel’s marriage to Lord Merton. It was in part because of Isobel’s rise in social rank, but more than that, it was her fear that she was going to lose her friend. How very childlike and uncharacteristic of her. She showed a depth of feeling she didn’t know she could have for another person. It’ll be interesting, if not very entertaining, to see how she’ll get involved in the civil, or not so civil, war between Sprat and Danker. I’m sure her mastermind will come up with a solution suitable to both.
         It looks like Tom is off to Boston, but wait, I’m not sure he’s going to go. His conversation with Sibbie made him realize he does not have a good enough reason to take her away from Downton and the whole family. I think he’ll make preparations to leave but I just don’t think he’ll go. By the way, how incredibly cute is Sibbie?!?!
         Now we come to Mary and her cast of characters. Mary is becoming less appealing by the episode. She strings people along like toys. Her treatment of Edith is unwarranted. The only one who seems to know how to handle her is Charles. He initiates and cuts off communication not allowing her the time to dangle him on the end of a string. I do like Charles, his pronunciation of cinema was odd (hard “c” instead of soft “c”) but I’m only an aristocrat by marriage so what do I know?? In any event, good bye Tony, he’s off to the arms of Mable Lane Fox where he belongs. Tony wasn’t at all heart-broken, his marriage to Mable Lane Fox was inevitable. My only question is did that kiss from Charles mean anything? Has Charles, the ultimate planner, figured out a way to capture Mary’s heart? Does he really want Mary’s heart? I think he does, and he’s a man who gets results.
         Now for the wow moment I’ve been waiting for, the dinner party for Lord Merton and Isobel. The dinner table certainly has been a battle ground this whole season. Lord Merton’s boys are such insufferable snobs!! Their treatment of Isobel at dinner was reprehensible. “Inevitable failure” and “did you really think we would welcome you with open arms?” How horribly embarrassing for Isobel, and yet she told Lord Merton not to be cross with Larry. How could he get in the car with those two monsters is beyond me. Oh well, Isobel is better off without him. Love Tom for standing up for himself, Atticus and the family. Violet provided the requisite comic relief when Tom called him the “B” word, “and suddenly we’ve slipped into a foreign tongue.”
         Gear up for the next uncomfortable dinner when Lord Sindeby meets Rose’s mother, the heart of stone, Susan Felcher. Will we see O’Brien return to Downton? I hope not. Perhaps Rose’s wedding will be the wedding of the season.
         Not to neglect downstairs, we’ve had a brief reprieve from the Bates/Green drama. That won’t last. Mr. Mason should be called the Oracle of Yorkshire County. His advice to Daisy is always so wise. I love how he can cut to the heart of a problem without offending her, rather he builds her up to make her see how deserving she is. He’s the family she never had. Baxter sees how wonderful he is and what an opportunity the farm is for her.
         Do I detect a pattern downstairs? They are thinking toward the future and a life away from the Abbey. Mrs. Patmore bought an investment property, Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes are looking into an investment property, Mr. Bates and Anna are doing the same, Daisy is pursuing her education and has the farm. What about Baxter, Molsely and Thomas? Thomas tried that painful attempt to change his life, he is showing signs of coming around though actually offering helpful advice twice!! Will Mr. Molesly go into teaching? I’m still hoping he and Miss Baxter will become a couple. Time will tell.
Cheers!!
 
 

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Steel Magnolias



          The ladies of Downton Abbey both upstairs and down are really steel magnolias. Although the men of the era had all the financial, political and physical power, the women clearly had the emotional power which buoyed all the men’s efforts in whatever they were doing. The women at Downton (and dare I say everywhere else?) are the power behind the throne.

          So let’s begin with my first steel magnolia, Anna. For such a tiny, frail-looking person Anna is truly made of tough stuff. She doesn’t back down to anyone and is so incredibly kind to everyone. Thomas is so mean-spirited and has tried to undermine her so many times, yet Anna is still so concerned about his health. Anna keeps Lady Mary’s secrets even at the expense of real tension with her husband. When Bates found the book and the contraception, I almost choked. The questioning he put Anna through was like a courtroom drama, yet she wouldn’t crack and continued to hold on to Mary’s secret. She was also so relieved to know definitively that Bates did not kill Mr. Green. Although he would have liked to, for Anna’s sake he refrained from doing it. Now, will the police see things his way? We have to hope the railway ticket clerk has a short memory.

          My next steel magnolia is Daisy. I love Daisy’s new found ambition. She is certain not to stay a cook forever. Perhaps she will take over Mr. Mason’s farm and become a true business woman. Mr. Molsley remains a sad sack. His respect for Daisy’s ambition only highlights how life has not turned out the way he expected. Perhaps good things are yet in store for him.

          Miss Baxter is a steel magnolia very much like Anna. She keeps herself to herself as they say, however, she obviously has a deeply caring nature. She has taken on Molsley and Thomas as her reclamation projects and has made tremendous progress with both. Thomas finally realizes he needs someone’s help and turns to her. She has the fortitude to put the past damage he tried to do aside and get him the help he so desperately needed. My heart did go out to Thomas when he explained why he submitted himself to such torture. There was Baxter to put a silver lining to the situation telling him how brave she thought he was. Has the worm turned? Hopefully, he’s FINALLY learned his lesson and will play nice from now on.

          Rose is not quite a steel magnolia, not yet. I’ll call her a pewter magnolia. She is no doubt falling in love with Atticus Aldridge. It will be interesting to see how she handles his faith difference. My guess is her parents will have an issue and she’ll tell them they can go pound sand.

          Isobel is definitely a steel magnolia. To date, we’ve only seen the steel part of her nature. She’s a tough lady free with her own opinions irrespective of whether they are asked for or not. Lately we’ve seen more of the magnolia side. Stodgy Lord Merton has brought out a softer side of her nature. It would appear that they bring out the best in each other.

          Cora has finally become a steel magnolia. She finally stood up to Robert and let him know Bricker’s advances were not invited. When she asked him whether he could honestly say he never had a flirtation that got out of hand (which was like asking him if he’s stopped beating his wife in that no matter how he answers that question he’s condemning himself) remember the maid from two seasons ago, she expected him back in her room. She was also involved in looking at the plans for the new homes being built on the estate. Hopefully Robert has learned his lesson. Hopefully the littlest steel magnolia, Isis will be alright.

          Mrs. Hughes and Mrs. Patmore are definitely steel magnolias. Mrs. Patmore invested her money in a way that will give her income while she’s working and will provide her with a home when she retires. Her insight got Mr. Carson thinking about his own retirement. He’s finally moving out of the past and moving into the future. By asking Mrs. Hughes to invest with him in a retirement property, perhaps he’s thinking about more than just having a place to live when he retires. Maybe he’s thinking of sharing his future with Mrs. Hughes. Cute!!

          Mary is the epitome of a steel magnolia. Lately, there has been very little magnolia about her. By changing her hairstyle so the men know what they’re missing is more steel than magnolia. In fact, for me, it’s actually very unattractive. Tony didn’t look heartbroken at the horse race. He paid all his attention to Mable. Charles’s plan is working. Hopefully his plans go more smoothly than any of the Crawley’s plans. I’m still hoping he and Mary will become a couple.

          Violet is a titanium magnolia. She’s been through so much in her lifetime she’s as tough as they get, yet she is extremely feminine. She knows her place and will not do anything to shirk her duty as Lady Grantham no matter what her heart may want. Prince Kuragan was brutally honest by saying he would have run away with her anywhere any time. She wouldn’t because she couldn’t not because she didn’t want to but because it would have meant failing to do her duty, utterly unthinkable. Kuragan and Violet may remain friends but she will not carry their relationship further.

          Finally, the magnolia who’s strength has been tested in the most intense fire, Edith.  Edith’s tensile strength would withstand a nuclear explosion. With the news of Michael’s death, Edith has made the decision to go it alone. Mary was particularly cruel to Edith helping Edith make her decision. Edith claimed her child and thereby her own life. It was heartbreaking watching Edith take Marigold from the Drews, but it had to be done. Edith will hopefully take over Michael’s magazine and make it a huge success. She’ll raise her child as she wants to and for the first time in her life, she will only be accountable to herself. She will be the master of her own future. Go get ‘em Edith.

Cheers!!

Patiently Waiting


 
I’m not sure it’s because I was so enraptured with last season and its breathtaking pace and spellbinding plot-lines, but this season seems smaller to me and somewhat more depressing. The action has taken nearly entirely in the Abbey. There have been few visits outside of the Abbey with the exception of a few quick trips into London or Liverpool. And with the exception of Edith lighting her room afire there have been very few “wow” moments.  Even the weather has been considerably drearier than it was last season. True, we cannot have the pageantry of Rose’s presentation at Court every season, however, things seem to be more plodding along than whistling along this season. In any event, I do love the show and there is more than enough going on to keep my interest.

        Rose is turning out to be such a pleasant surprise. Perhaps being presented at court and nearly toppling the future king of England brought her to her senses. and thus she is acting somewhat more responsibly.  She is still naïve but this time her youthful innocence is comes off more endearing than insolent.  She takes people how she finds them (whether a man is handsome or not). She is oblivious to race, religion and politics. She is sweet and it appears her relationship with Atticus Aldridge will blossom.  We’ll see if his being Jewish will be an impediment to a relationship. My guess is she won’t allow it to be.

        As one relationship begins, another ends. We waived goodbye to Sarah Bunting.  I can’t say that I’m sorry to see her go. I didn’t mind her politics, it was her manner that was so offensive.  She was as rigid in her way of thinking as the “aristos” she despised. She did reawaken Tom’s political side which will no doubt have its significance in the future, but she cannot be truly surprised Tom didn’t fall for her.  He told her several times that although he didn’t agree with much of the family’s politics, he loved them. They were good to him and to Sibbie. So, if she was listening to him, how could she have asked him “Don’t you despise them?” Of course not!! She just doesn’t understand his relationship with the family nor did she seem to try very hard. Tom will be better off without her. The question is what does he plan to do now? I’m still not sure if he’s staying at the Abbey. Can he pursue a socialistic lifestyle and continue to live with the family?

        Alas Edith is being blocked by the Drews from ever seeing Marigold again.  Violet and Rosamond talk about taking Marigold away to some school in France like it was picking up a package and bringing it to the post office.  Margie Drew has a talon grip on Marigold and isn’t likely to give her up freely. How do they think they are going to get her away from them? Money won’t do the trick. Margie is not the type who can be bought off. So how do they intend to remove Marigold from their home? Who does Edith know in London who needs to be called from Carson’s office in the middle of the night? If it’s another of Edith’s ideas, with her track record, it won’t be agood one!!

        Thomas is a mess. The drugs he’s taking are clearly harming him. As soon as we start to feel a little sympathy for him, he feels the need to stir the pot up downstairs. Anna is one of the few people at the Abbey who has ever attempted to show him friendship and he’s eager to cause her discomfort. It’s so hard, if not impossible, to like him despite what he’s dealing with. Evil.

        Violent unsuccessfully scuttled Isobel’s relationship with Lord Merton. If anything she only galvanized it. His keen interest in medicine matches Isobel’s showing they have more in common than Violet thought. The true telling moment was Violet’s conversation with Dr. Clarkson. She told Clarskson that she didn’t want Isobel to become a drudge with no interests to keep her occupied while living with a boring husband in a drafty house.  Was she describing Isobel’s fate or her own?” Is this why she found Prince Kuragan so interesting all those years ago?

        Bricker finally made his move on Cora, he is as subtle as a bee sting. True to form, Robert walked in at the exact wrong moment, assumed the worst and a pretty pathetic fight ensued. Robert really shouldn’t fight in his uniform it’s not very flattering to his regiment!!  So now he’s upset with Cora, which he has no right to be. I think this is a case of the truth hurting. Bricker paid Cora the kind of attention Robert hasn’t lately. She may not have minded his advances when they were innocent flirtations, but she drew the line when she had to. Again Robert is angry with Cora for something he really should be blaming himself for.

        Here comes Charles Blake to save the day. His plan to get Tony and Mable back together again is the obvious choice of getting Tony away from Mary. He knows it’s not going to be easy but there is a certain inevitability about it. The only question is how ugly is this going to get for Mary before everyone comes to their senses? Will Charles come out on top for being Mary’s champion?

        There is an interesting parallel being drawn between Violet and Mary. Violet understands Mary’s predicament with Tony better than she lets on because she went through a similar affair. In the previous episode at the dinner Robert and Sarah had their donnybrook Mary and Violet sipped their wine at the same time glaring at Sarah. In this episode, each is picking up on the tension between Cora and Robert. Mary is the next generation of Violet, sharp witted, sharp tongued and fiercely loyal to the family and their way of life.

        It’s hard to tell about the Bates’ conundrum.  It would appear that the police are closing the net, but what evidence do they have? The witness did not see Bates and no one can refute his testimony about where he was that day. So do they have more information than we know? I think the inspector will find a steel ring around Mary, Anna and Mrs. Hughes protecting each other and Mr. Bates. They’re stronger than he knows.

        Finally, Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes continue their sparring between the modern age and the past. Mr. Carson doesn’t like to think of himself as being left behind. Mrs. Hughes has no problem pointing out to him that he is a fixture of the past. Will her little nudges bring him into the modern age? Perhaps, and she’ll be there waiting for him?


Monday, January 26, 2015

Fatal Attractions



          I was torn as to the theme for this post. Episode 4 left viewers with much to think about. Was it a reap what you sew kind of episode? A little, but I think fatal attraction is closer to the mark. Neither is very cheerful, but the episode wasn’t very cheerful. Save for the surprisingly sweet and romantic proposal from Lord Merton to Isobel the show was pretty depressing.
 

          Robert continues to ignore Cora and her eagerness to learn more about the estate. He has elevated his indifference to her from saying “You needn’t concern yourself” to flat out turning his back on her during business conversations. She is clearly bruised by his rebuffs.

Bricker’s flattering attention may be what she needs psychologically, but, unlike Robert, I think she is strong enough to discourage him. Bricker made an awkward recovery when he was “busting” to tell Cora how much he adored her as Robert walked in. Robert may be aware that Bricker is flirting with Cora, but he is not doing a very good job discouraging him, rather he is taking it out on Cora. Is this a parallel story line to what Violet and Prince Kuragan went through? Will Robert give Cora a gift which will subtly remind her how much he loves her as his father did? Is it significant that the painting Bricker is at Downton to see an angel?

          We are seeing an entirely new side of Violet. Memories of years gone by, a glimpse into the past which betrays a person very different from the person she is now. She had a romantic relationship with Kuragan, he asked her to run away with him, and she “owes” it to Princess Kuragan to find her even though she doesn’t like her.  She was unkind to Edith at lunch after Edith encouraged her to see Kuragan again.  “You know nothing about it.” was her terse comment to Edith who winced under the verbal blow. I think she feels the need to set things right.

          I don’t know how Edith gets out of bed every morning, events in her life keep going from bad to worse to suicidal.  Margie Drew is now shutting the door on Edith’s face like she’s selling vacuums door to door.

Michael Gregson’s office called with news of a trial in Germany regarding the Brown Shirts who likely beat up Gregson. Edith naturally fears his death. Hopefully this tidal wave of grief will subside and miraculously Michael will have survived. If not, I’d keep all the sharp objects, matches, and poisons away from Edith.

          Sarah Bunting’s and Robert’s worlds exploded again over dinner. I may agree with little that Robert does, but Bunting’s behavior at dinner was inexcusable. She promised Tom not to push Robert’s buttons, but clearly she had a plan to goad him into a full-fledged fit.

I’m happy for Daisy but I think Sarah was more interested in undermining Robert and everything he stands for than helping Daisy. Daisy was just the means to her end. Watching Tom survey the Abbey from the balcony, I think he was weighing his options. I think Sarah pushed him too far and as a result, rather than leaving Downton, I think Tom is going to throw his lot in with the family and stay on.

          Thomas returned from his mysterious leave of absence. His dad was never in danger. Thomas has complained about being lonely. I think he realizes it is unlikely he will ever find a male companion given the times and the laws of the day. I think, therefore, the “Choose Your Path” ad he referred to in the magazine has to do with the promise of changing a person’s homosexuality by taking drugs. If that is the case, I actually feel sorry for Thomas. The times do not permit him to live his life as he would wish, so to fit in he is forced to extreme measures. Miss Baxter is showing extraordinary compassion for him. She will end up being his best friend.

          Poor Molesley, Carson showed a rather cruel sense of humor to Molesely taking advantage of his desire to advance his position. I guess Molesley should have been mindful of the proverb “Be careful of what you ask for, you may get it.”

          Mary’s fatal attraction is turning creepy. She actually thought all she had to do was tell Tony it was over and he would take the news and walk away. Not so much. Tony called her on her cavalier attitude toward relationships (he wasn’t completely off base, she did mistreat him). He didn’t just walk away, instead, he’s not going to let her go. “This is something we’re going to get through.” This is awfully reminiscent of Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction, “I won’t be ignored Dan.”

Last season Gillingham said he wouldn’t let Mary go even if she walked down the aisle with someone else. Mrs. Patmore should be on the lookout for pet rabbits in her soup pots! Mary may think the issue is behind her but Tony won’t be cast off that easily. Violet’s knowing look at Mary at dinner betrayed concern that Mary doesn’t fully appreciate the situation. Yet another example of Mary’s arrogance. Mable Lane Fox was certainly no Lavinia Swire, she’s rather a feisty creature. I think she’d love to cause Mary some grief. The real question is what part will Charles Blake play in all of this? Will he come to Mary’s rescue? Will he let Mary swing in the wind a little before he helps her? Will his help come in the form of a marriage proposal? Right now, I think he’s too good for Mary.

          The final fatal attraction is, of course, the Bates/Green situation. The police are now focusing their attention on Anna. My question is how the plain clothes police officer knew who Anna was. If he is a London police officer, how would he know who Anna was and what connection she had with Green. In any event, the result is the investigation is not going away. The police are focusing on both Bates and Anna, this can’t be good.
 

Cheers!

Monday, January 19, 2015

Revelations (Not the Biblical Kind)




               Episode 3 was filled with revelations which will have a bearing on important future decisions and outcomes. We’ll start with Lady Mary. Ah, Mary, Mary quite contrary. She has an annoying habit of wanting it all and using others for her own purposes. She has an intimate affair with a man (I’m trying to keep things G rated) and yet she doesn’t want to be tarnished AGAIN; and she asked devoted Anna to sacrifice her personal beliefs and pristine reputation so she won’t be discovered with an illicit book and a birth control device. In the 1920’s, sleeping with a man, not your husband, and using birth control makes you a tarnished person. She is so arrogant, she deludes herself into thinking as long as she doesn’t get caught everything is alright. Incredibly immature.

In any event, Mary’s “research” in Liverpool left her feeling that Charles Blake was correct. She confesses to Tom that Tony “is a nice man but he’s not…” Let me fill in the blank…SMART!!

Of course they have nothing in common. Tony is a well-bred, landed, handsome shell. He’s as deep as a puddle. It only took Mary one week to discover she’s already tired of him. In the sneak peek to the next episode it looks like she’s preparing to give him the push. But as we’ve come to know by now, nothing is that simple. The Dowager gave Mary both the least helpful and the most helpful advice. Violet said, “In my day a lady was incapable of feeling physical attraction until she was instructed to do so by her mama.” Sorry Granny, that ship sailed a long time ago. Then she told Mary, "You have to take control of your feelings before they take control of you." That is advice worth taking, which means Mary, quite contrary won't.
 

         Cora was the next one to have a revelation. For Cora, this was a revelation a long time in the making. Robert has had the long time practice of “not concerning” Cora with matters which affect the estate.
Since the war, Cora discovered she likes being involved and being useful. Robert treats her like one of Downton’s ornaments: beautiful and valuable but mute. Cora was first rankled by Robert’s refusal to tell her more about the development of houses on the estate, as if it was beneath her understanding. Then came Mr. Bricker who paid Cora the kind of attention Robert hasn’t. He was not only captivated by her beauty but also by her intellect. Robert’s belittling comment had a biting effect when he said he found it difficult to believe that an art critic could find her observations about art impossible to resist. A comment which no doubt Robert will regret.

         Poor Edith, all her revelations bring sadness. She could not have been too surprised, however, by the revelation that Margie Drew has had enough of Edith’s visits to see Marigold. She has more than worn out her welcome. Tim Drew was harsh with Margie when he told her she was soft in the head, but in Margie’s defense she doesn’t know the whole story. Now Edith’s child will be so close and yet so far away. Heartbreaking. How many ways can this girl be tortured emotionally?!?!

         Daisy and Rose turned out to have the only happy revelations of the episode. Daisy learns she is brighter than she ever gave herself credit and Rose has a caring heart and is capable of thinking of someone other than herself. Well done ladies. 
         I have to admit that Baxter’s revelation was a bit of a letdown for me. Baxter revealed to Cora that she was under the influence of a nasty man who persuaded her to steal the jewels and left her to face the consequences.
  I thought Baxter’s story would be more compelling but at least she gets to stay and continue her relationship with Mr. Molesley. Since Baxter won’t go to the police about Mr. Coyle, I wonder if Mr. Coyle will make another appearance in Baxter’s life and try to repeat the scheme at Downton.

         Violet’s revelation was subtle yet powerful. The appearance of Prince Kuragin at Downton nearly knocked her off her firmly planted aristocratic feet. It certainly left her breathless. 
 Is there more to the fan than just a fan? It would appear so based on her reaction and based on Kuragin’s statement that she hid the fan because she was afraid Lord Grantham would get upset if he saw her with it. Did she take her own advice all those years ago and take control of her emotions…we’ll see…

         Finally the reveal of reveals, there was a witness to Mr. Green’s death, a young woman who heard Green say, “Why have you come?” just as he fell (or was pushed) into the street. Then the police sergeant told Carson that apparently he and Bates had an argument at Downton. Mr. Green was a clever one, he was setting Mr. Bates up in the event Bates came after him for what he did to Anna. Perhaps he wasn’t as clever as he should have been. Bates, not to be outdone in the sly department, had an account for his day in York, his prison education at work. He made sure he was seen in a few places in York that day, making it unlikely that he’d have traveled to London.  Will Mr. Green have the last word? I hope not.

         Carson and Mrs. Hughes are again on opposite sides of an issue: whether or not to include young Archie, Mrs. Patmore’s nephew, in the village’s memorial to the WWI soldiers. It seems that it is these controversial issues which are bringing Mr. Carson and Mrs. Hughes closer together. Perhaps as they negotiate these trials they are coming to a better understanding of each other and closer together. Or will it be that their differences are too many for them to overcome personally?

         Tom and Thomas will have their big revelations in episodes to come.

On to the next episode…

Cheers!!

 

Monday, January 12, 2015

Sparks


               Sparks are needed to start a flame, and sparks are often generated with friction. Based on last night’s episode, there was ample friction to ignite all of Yorkshire County. Nearly every character was set at odds with another.

            Lord Grantham/Carson. It was odd to watch Carson at odds with Robert. He has such unfailing devotion to the family, it is strange to see Carson disagree with his Lordship. I think both of their egos got in the way. Robert is still bruised by not being asked to serve on the memorial committee. And Carson probably feels that Robert’s role on the committee should be that of a child during Puritanical times “seen and not heard.” Since Robert is not officially on the committee he should really but out.  Ironically, in the end, Robert had a better feel for the pulse of the town on the issue than Carson who was asked to lead the committee because he knows the people of the town so well. Carson proved to be the bigger man and agreed to a memorial in the center of town. I don’t think Robert was completely altruistic, again acting like a child, Robert’s deeper concern was protecting his cricket pitch, than giving it up for a memorial garden.
 

            Carson/Mrs. Hughes. Carson’s stiff upper lip waivered ever so slightly when he and Mrs. Hughes disagreed on a couple of issues. First, Mrs. Hughes disagreed that a garden of remembrance was the appropriate tribute. Next, he disagrees that Ms. Bunting should be teaching Daisy. Finally, Mrs. Hughes liked the wireless coming into the Abbey. Mrs. Hughes knows her mind well enough not to wither under Carson’s disappointment and moved on with her life. He confessed he’s uncomfortable when they are not on the same side. His respect for her is obvious, perhaps enough for a more significant relationship?

            Robert/Tom. Tom’s acquaintance with Miss Bunting is stirring the political activism which has lain dormant within him for the past few years. Robert’s fear that Tom might take Sibbie away is more than he can bear. If Robert continues to shoot barbs at Tom about his political views, he might as well pack Sibbie’s bag himself. Tolerance is not Robert’s strength.

            Thomas/Household staff. As predicted, since Thomas wasn’t able to convince Baxter to give him any dirt on the family, and since she confessed her past to Cora, he’s going to try to discredit her with the rest of the staff. Thomas has to reap what he’s sewn, he’s been so nasty with everyone no one cares or believes what he has to say.

            Molesley/Mrs. Baxter. Thomas was only too eager to tell Molesley Baxter’s back story. Clearly Molesley is crushed but he’s so in love with her it is beyond his ken that she could have done anything so nefarious without provocation. Baxter’s refusal to tell him the whole story only makes her more endearing. If Baxter stays (I think she will) she will eventually confide in him with the whole story. They are my odds on favorite for getting married by the end of the season.
 
 

            Violet/Isobel. Their relationship is always like flint even on the best of days. Isobel may be warming to the idea of Lord Merton’s attention. Violet is chaffing at the changes the future could be bringing. Isobel as a Lady, and the technological changes making the aristocracy more human are clearly worrying her she is sailing into treacherous waters.

            Edith and Tim Drew/Margie Drew. Tim Drew’s plan to have Edith become Marigold’s godmother is not going down easily with Margie Drew. Drew (who is one of those men who looks better when he’s not smiling, he looks a bit creepy when he smiles) is trying to force Edith on Margie who already thinks Edith has a crush on him. Hello? What part of this plan does Drew thinks is going to work? Margie is clearly an intelligent person, she’s bound to figure out the relationship between Edith and Marigold sooner or later. Will she keep Edith’s secret? Will Tim have to tell Margie the truth?
 

            Mary/Charles Blake Mary is so annoying when it comes to men. I hated her coy demeanor with Charles, who is so clearly smarter than that. She can play coy with Tony because he’s not as smart as Charles, but Charles can see for himself what is going on. He thinks Mary is selling herself short by settling for Tony, but he’s man enough not to grovel for her affection. He tells her she’s too smart for Gillingham, and it seems that there is something else he knows about Tony he’s not telling Mary being that sort of loyal fellow. I think it’s fantastic that he gives her his opinion about an issue then walks away, rather than engage in a debate with her which she clearly wants to do. Charles has given Mary something to think about and his words will come back to Mary. Her plan to spend time with Gillingham has disaster written all over it. There are so many ways this thing could go south. I have a feeling when it hits the fan, Tony will go back to Mable Lane Fox and Charles will be there for Mary to pick up the pieces.

            Cora/Robert/Bricker It’s strange how Robert can have a better understanding of the villagers than the people in his own home. Bricker is obviously flirting with Cora, and the thing Robert complains about is Bricker flirting with the dog. Again childish Robert, avoids the obvious and demands Cora ask him not to flirt with the dog. Cora knows she’s being flirted with and is stung that Robert is more concerned about the dog than he is about her. Bricker won’t stop his flirtations with Cora.
 

            The biggest spark of the episode was saved for the last 30 seconds. Sgt. Willis’s questions about Mr. Green froze the unflappable Mrs. Hughes in her tracks. Mr. Green’s death was apparently witnessed. What did the witness see? Do they think it was murder? Cue the piano and violin…
 

Cheers!


Monday, January 5, 2015

Sex, Lies and Fire Hoses



If anyone thought we’d be easing into Season 5 of Downton Abbey, they were grossly disabused of that notion after watching the first episode. We hit the ground running picking right up where we left off last season. It was an evening of sex, lies and fire hoses—what a start and where to begin?!?

The obvious choice is Edith, but I think I’ll wait to write about her. I’ll start with Robert. After 34 years of marriage, you would think he would take Cora into his confidence, but he doesn’t and continues to pay the price. By “protecting” Cora from the details of life, he puts the family in awkward situations. Had he told Cora about his feelings regarding Sarah Bunting, they could have avoided a painfully
uncomfortable dinner. Alas, he didn’t, and we squirmed through an intense political debate between Robert and Sarah more edgy than anything we’ve witnessed even between Violet and Isobel. He is also thinly veiling his disappointment of not being asked to serve on the WWI memorial committee. He continually says he’s not disappointed but it is obvious he’s crushed.

As for Sarah Bunting, I do not think she will become Tom’s new love. He does not seem to regard her in that way. He recognized her behavior at dinner as being rude (which it was) and apologized for it. I think her role is to prick Tom’s memory of the political activist he used to be. She is reinvigorating his personal views which may lead him away from Downton. He’s talked a lot about moving from Downton and being true to himself, I think Tom will solidify his position this season and either reconcile his views with life at Downton or he’ll move on. He has made frequent statements of how much he loves the family but those statements have always been qualified by another statement of how important it is for him not to lose himself. I’m truly not sure what he’ll do, I can make the case for both scenarios, we’ll see. In any event, I don’t see Miss Bunting coming back to Downton as a dinner guest any time soon. I think she’ll be back but downstairs as Daisy’s math tutor and perhaps she’ll try to rally the downstairs to her political way of thinking. Look out Mr. Carson!!

Ah, Daisy, how can you not feel for Daisy? Here is a young woman who knows there is more to life than peeling potatoes and making the béchamel for the savory. She does not have the formal education others have and has no self-esteem at all she calls herself a “pig ignorant idiot” with “the brain of a kipper” but she is smart enough
to know she needs to acquire certain math skills if she is to become a success as a head cook or the owner of a farm (Yay to Mrs. Hughes for encouraging her). Sarah Bunting will likely become Daisy’s math tutor, she’ll also probably plant some political revolutionary ideas in Daisy’s head as well.

Staying downstairs, I knew Miss Baxter’s secret would be a whopper but I never expected her to be a thief and a convicted felon!! Like Bates, there has to be more to the story. My guess is that she stole the jewelry to help a struggling family member or
friend. I don’t believe she stole the items for herself. The fact that the jewelry was gone by the time the police picked her up tells me she either sold them or gave them to someone else. Baxter must be protecting someone. I love Molesley’s steadfast support of her, and he’s spot on about Thomas.  Any secret she tells him will be used against that person. I don’t think Cora will sack her, which will only increase the tension between Thomas and Baxter. Thomas will try to scratch away at Baxter’s reputation until she’s forced to leave on her own. I think the staff will rally behind her.

Molesley’s hair dying effort was the comedy relief for the evening. Clearly he’s trying to look younger, perhaps to attract Miss Baxter? Robert’s line of inquiry was hysterical. “Molesley are you part Latin?” “No, my Lord.” “Italian?” “No” “Spanish or Irish?” “No”. Not that Italy is a Latin country, but Irish?? Not what I would associate as a dark complected country.

For more sexual innuendo, Violet’s and Isobel’s conversation about Lord Merton was priceless. Violet: “Lord Merton wants what all men want.” Isobel: “Don’t be ridiculous.” Violet: “I was referring to companionship…as I hope you were.” Too funny. In the end though, Violet is determined to scuttle Isobel and Merton’s relationship, she can’t stand the idea that Isobel could become a wife and titled woman and an important figure in the county. Her plans usually succeed, Isobel, however, is the sort of person that tugs in the opposite direction Violet is leaning so it should be interesting. They both live to meddle in other’s lives, we’ll see which meddler wins.

The final bit of sexual innuendo was a brief conversation between Anna and Bates. Bates ponders about parenting a child who was not his when talking about Mary and Gillingham, which led to a quick exchange about having a family of their own. Will there be the pitter patter of little feet for Anna and Bates? How much does Baxter know about Mr. Bates and Mr. Green? Will it interfere with their family planning?

For more sexual activity which was far from innuendo, there was lots going on
both upstairs and downstairs. First, Jimmy and Lady Anstruther made the Abbey fire even hotter!! Yikes! Clearly, Jimmy had to be sacked, but I wonder if we’ll be hearing more from him. Will he maintain his friendship with Thomas?

Then there is Lady Mary and Lord Gillingham. He’s not subtle, I’ll give him that. “Mary, I want to be lovers.” Even though Mary thinks she wants to know more about “that side of things” before deciding on a husband, I’m not sure she is ready. Mary doesn’t like to be pushed, if Gillingham continues to push too hard Mary may bolt. I can’t help but think he’s trying to trap her into the relationship. Gillingham is over-confident now, he thinks he’s won, but I know we haven’t heard the last of Charles Blake.

Now we come to Lady Edith. Sex, lies and fire hoses all apply to her she’s hit the trifecta. The lie is obvious, hiding her child at the Drew farm as the daughter of Mr. Drew’s friend who died. She dotes on Marigold at the Drew farm and ignores the other children completely, subtle. As for the sex, Margie Drew thinks Edith has a crush on Drew tangling the web further. Drew, of course, knows Edith’s secret. He is a funny sort he’s rather like an oracle whose pronouncements have to be deciphered. He tells Edith “We must find a way for you to live the truth without telling the truth.” What does that mean?? Then after giving the problem some thought he comes out with this suggestion, “You’re going to take a greater interest in little Marigold.” Correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t that what got Edith into trouble to begin with?? Perhaps he means she should adopt her or become her godmother or take up some other role which will give her exposure to Marigold without raising suspicion and get Drew off the hook.

As for the fire hoses, unlucky Edith tosses the only reminder she has of Gregson into the fire and nearly burns the Abbey down in the process. Her bad luck has risen
to epic levels, she’s now endangering other people’s lives although the only room damaged in the fire was, of course, her room. Now Mrs. Hughes knows something is up with Edith as she overheard Edith and Drew’s conversation. If I trusted anyone with a secret it would be Mrs. Hughes. Perhaps Edith’s luck is about to change.
 
 


Cheers!