Actors: Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, Maggie Smith
Creator: Julian Fellowes
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: PBS
DVD Release Date: January 28, 2014
Running Time: 525 minutes
Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3 out of 5 stars
“Downton Abbey: Season 4” is with not question one of the most anticipated show this year. The show already completed its airing in the UK but in the US it just started airing on January 5th. This season picks up around six months after the tragic end to the Series 3 Christmas Special. This Blu-ray includes the original U.K. unedited edition of the show and contain all of Season 4, including the finale. This show returns with the acclaimed ensemble cast led by Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, and Maggie Smith, as well as guest stars Shirley MacLaine and Paul Giamatti. This season is the most epic yet for sure. A must own for any fan!
Official Premise: Six months after Matthew’s tragic death, his loss is still felt throughout Downton Abbey. Mary struggles to face a new future with her fatherless child, and is encouraged by the family to pick up the pieces. With the twenties in full swing and the tides of change sweeping through Downton, Rose’s continued attraction to the bright lights of London spells trouble for the Crawleys, and Edith’s budding relationship with Michael Gregson is threatened by events beyond her control. Meanwhile, below stairs, passions run high and young hearts look set to be broken.
“Downton Abbey: Season 4” Blu-ray release looks amazing. Watching this show on PBS (in “high def”) doesn’t even come close to this. The locations where this show is shot look so amazing. I love the estate’s grounds look sharp and majestic as they should be. The DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0 track for each episode also sounds amazing. It works well with the show’s intense and (English) dialogue and the show’s beautiful score. In terms of special features, there is not a lot but what is included is a must watch. You get to go behind the scenes and witness the making of Season 4 with more than 30 minutes of bonus footage! “Downton Abbey” already is scheduled to return for a fifth series in September 2014 (in the UK). So stay tuned!