DVD Reviews

Upstairs, Downstairs (TV Series 2010) – DVD Review

By June L. May 30, 2011, 13:54 GMT

One of the most loved television series of all time is brought back to life with a fresh cast and sumptuous production values. It\'s 1936, and six years since parlormaid Rose left 165 Eaton Place, fate brings her back, as housekeeper to its new owners: Sir Hallam and his wife Lady Agnes, and Maud, Lady Holland, his mother. Rose soon finds she has her work cut out as she recruits ...more

Upstairs, Downstairs the original BBS series is beloved by many and the new mini-series is a welcome addition to the family.  With Jean Marsh (co-creator of the original series) reprising her role as Rose Buck, returning to 165 Eaton Place after many years as the new housekeeper, how can the production be anything but excellent.

165 Eaton Place has remained empty and gathering dust for six years.  New tenants Sir Hallam Holland, Baronet (Ed Stoppard) and Lady Agnes Holland (Keely Hawes) bring life and glamour into the old Bellamy home. 

It is 1936 on the eve of another world war and political intrigue runs high.  Upstairs, Lord Hallam’s position in the foreign office means that there will be social gatherings that brining intrigue and tension.  Downstairs, a new air of independence coupled with pride of job lead to changes from the old hierarchy. 

With colorful characters in both social strata, careful production values, and excellent writing viewers are once again caught in the spell of 165 Eaton Place.

Upstairs, Downstairs 2010 is attractively housed in a book cover type case and is presented on two DVD disks containing the complete three episode mini-series.  Also included is a “Behind Closed Doors” feature.

A wonderful performance by Dame Eileen Atkins as Sir Dallam’s bossy but intriguing mother (Maud, Lady Holland) is a particular highlight of this series.  Dame Eileen Atkins was the other co-creator of the original series. 

If you are familiar with the original Upstairs, Downstairs you will enjoy seeing the progress through time of the old place and appearances of a few familiar faces.  If you are new to the series this fine production will inspire you to discover what you have missed.

Visit the DVD database for more information.