Not All Television is a Neverending Shame

Nothing here needs to be reiterated that isn't a tacit fact. Television rolls around in the mire of its own sloppy writing, pacing, and every other attribute known to moving pictures. It's a damn shame in every way--but in every smoky ruin of dystopia there's always something that comes along and reestablishes faith in humanity. The item I'm discussing is "Downton Abbey".

Some of you may have heard of it, but chances are most have not. This television series finished airing its second season on PBS (you see? support public broadcast) just before the end of 2011 and has gathered itself a dedicated fanbase on par with any other popular series during prime time in the US. I am lucky to have my faithful Netflix account always ready to suggest a number of movies and television shows, so I decided to give in and find out what "Downton Abbey" was all about.

Mary Crawley and Matthew Crawley

Now, I've just finished watching season 1, and I'm blown away. I enjoy "Sherlock" and "Game of Thrones" for their many wonderful elements that make them shine, but even they do not excel in every category such as this show. To be quite frank, I am flabbergasted that I enjoyed it as much as I did. Not giving too much away, the premise revolves around the inheritance of Robert Crawley's (Hugh Bonneville) estate because he has no male heirs--only three daughters. The issue of class is also a major plot point/theme as both the aristocratic Grantham family and their servants are the main characters. And this is where the show really shines; every major character contributes a whole lot to the pacing, acting, drama, everything of this series. Everyone is simply superb, and best of all (a personal preference because I abhor casting directors' needs to make every major character unrealistically beautiful) this group of people feel real, which only adds greater depth to their already incredible acting abilities.

The main characters in the Crawley staff

Rather than go on with a myriad of explanations praising "Downton Abbey", I'll leave this list of the best aspects of the series, and let you, the reader, decide whether you'd like to give it a shot. In closing, the best way to describe whether you'd enjoy the series: I'll say that it is similar to watching a collection of Keira Knightley period pieces, except less overly dramatized and with tighter writing.

• Every character is incredible. Whether I hate, love, or am indifferent about one, they all aid in weaving an immense story.
• The pacing is remarkable for a series steeped in Edwardian culture, which many would find boring. 
• The cinematography is worth merit because it gathers attention. You know you're being treated to something special when you are conscious of it.
• The dynamic between the servants are some of the most pleasing scenes I've ever watched.
• The theme song explains the series better than any critic could. Music speaks to the soul, and it releases this show's soul with great effect. 
• Maggie Smith (Professor McGonagall of Harry Potter fame) delivers the greatest one-liners. She is truly the most experienced actress in the series and delivers her entire performance effortlessly.