Last “Downton Abbey” film: “Not sentimental, but very nostalgic”

A big farewell is imminent: On September 18, “Downton Abbey: The Great Finale” starts in the cinema. It is the third film that is again based on the successful series “Downton Abbey” and is supposed to celebrate the end of an era.

“It was very moving,” all Leech (44) looks back on filming in an interview with Spot on News. “We have already said goodbye so often and then met again – but this time we knew that it would really be the last time,” says Tom Branson’s actor. However, the shoot was not sad. “It was more of a feeling of fulfillment – at least for me. In my last scene, I turned to Julian Fellowes and said: ‘Thanks for the role of my life.’ And I meant that very seriously.

“We already thought about five times that it was the last time-first in the series, then with every single film, so we are quite used to it,” confirmed Bertie actor Harry Hadden-Paton (44). “It was not too sentimental, but of course very nostalgic. Julian wrote a wonderful script that brings together all loose ends.”

“Downton Abbey” creator Julian Fellowes (76) brings the Crawley family and their staff back onto the big screen for the last time and lets a new age to break in the nobility in the 1930s. It has to adjust to changes to open a new chapter. “I think it’s a really great end to the 15 years,” explains Michelle Dockery (43), who is the focus of the new events as Lady Mary. “It feels like a love letter to the fans – to all those who have stayed with us for so long.”

Hadden -Paton adds: “It is about the question: What really matters? Even if the social norm says something else – what is really important? And in the end it is family. This community that makes out – between family and servants. This is a big message. And I think that is exactly what people appreciate: The warmth, the nostalgia, the consolation. choose.”

His role Tom was always the symbol of change in Downton Abbey, “because he was not part of British aristocracy,” says Leech. “From the outside, he could see developments that the rest of the family may have overlooked. And what I particularly like about this film is that you finally listen to him and take your advice seriously.

The equipment of the series and the films that play at the beginning of the 20th century played a major role in success. “I always loved to put on these costumes – just how to keep up, how to stand, that changes everything,” says Leech. “I have worn everything from chauffeur uniform to White Tie and Frack. In the end, everything will be looser, more relaxed – just like society back then. I love it how fashion reflects what happens in society.” But not clothing, but another souvenir, the actor from the set took with him. “The only thing I have is a name tag from the Ascot turn. My wife made something beautiful: as a memory of Downton, she organized a photo of me with it and framed it – with the name tag underneath.”

“I kept Anna’s shoes,” reveals Anna-Bates actress Joanne Froggatt (45). “They were made especially for me in season three. Our brilliant costume designer Anna Robbins asked me with every new film whether I would like new shoes – but I always said no. I love them – they are very comfortable.”

“I think I only have the program of my wedding with Lady Edith,” adds Hadden-Paton. “It is difficult to steal a watch, a ring or a cigarette case with these historical productions.” What remains for him: “I later came and was lucky enough to be accepted into the circle of the cast. We grew up together, have been given children, shared life events. That will remain – these memories.”

The symbol of “Downton Abbey” has also become Highclere Castle in Hampshire, which becomes a family head of the crawleys in the series and film. “I can totally understand why they took it as a location,” enthuses Leech. “When you drive up the hill and see the castle – it has something very special. It almost seems to shimmer, this golden light in the sun. A very special atmosphere.”

“I hang particularly on the site around the castle,” says Laura Carmichael (39), Mary’s sister Lady Edith Mimt. “There are so many beautiful, old trees and hills – the landscape is breathtaking. We often ran over the property, wistfully said goodbye and realized how happy we are that this place felt at least a bit like our home – even if it was only in the film.”

There was no common goodbye to the property, says Leech. “There was no moment when we all had the last take together. Everyone ended their scenes at different times. But the beautiful thing is: it does not need a permanent ‘live good’ because we have experienced so much together. We will always be part of the life of the other.”

“Highclere Castle was often very cold – I probably won’t miss that,” says Hadden -Paton with a laugh. “But the locations – that was always great.” Laura and I had a great time while shooting in London – in the Ritz Hotel, in the Rules restaurant, all of these iconic London places. I will miss that. “