Downton Abbey - Series 3

We started this series not having watched (or been aware of the existence of) the Christmas Special episode and kept feeling like the writers had simply leapt over a number of important issues. If you have seen Series 1 and 2, be sure not to miss that important filler episode before moving on. We enjoyed the series and the developing drama - it's great to be able to follow all these great characters through as they grow and develop.

One of the many enjoyments from watching DVD's instead of the programmes on tv, is the ability to have 'a fest', greedily watching several episodes one after another, without the deeply frustrating interruption of the mindnumbing adverts. Even recording it and later watching requires fast forwarding through the advert breaks, which affect the continuity of the story. The attention to detail is something that I have grown used to in this series, but still delights me with regards the costumes worn throughout the different periods covered in the story of the family and the servants. The inclusion of Lady Crawley's mother from the other side of the pond adds another dimension, not least of which is the realisation that it is probably impossible to get an older american actress that doesn't have suspiciously tight skin. Thank goodness for our Golden Lady, Maggie Smith, growing old gracefully, with a natural, lovely face. I await the final DVD of this particular series........and then on to the Highlands Christmas special. Is there going to be another series I wonder; I'll just have to wait and see how it all ends and whether there will be a cliffhanger?

Make sure you watch the 2011 Christmas Special, 'Christmas at Downton' before starting to watch Series 3! It contains significant developments in the plotlines!

Release day today and can not add to my list!! How strange! I am sure it would be lovely to watch though!