Absolutely brilliant (for fans of the TV show at least). It was like meeting long lost friends, and the movie was fabulous from beginning to end. Having recently visited Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle) it was a joy to see all the places I'd been to, the paths I'd walked down etc etc. The cast were a delight, the many sub plots great, and overall one of the most enjoyable movies I've seen in recent times. How well a person unfamiliar with the show would receive it I don't know, but for the faithful it can't be faulted!