Downton Abbey / Upstairs Downstairs
 

My husband and I have been watching Downton Abbey. So far we've watched all of Season 1 & 2. Now we only have two episodes left (starting Season 3) to watch before we're caught up.

We are really enjoying this series, and I was wondering, is the series Upstairs Downstairs somewhat like Downton Abbey? Have any of you watched Upstairs Downstairs? Did you enjoy it?

Thanks.

Gayle

Upstairs Downstairs has many similarities to Downton. It originally ran from 1971-1975 and was a blockbuster for its time. The story ran from 1903-1930. There was a new series by that name in 2010 where someone went back to the old house. I've seen them all but am just fascinated by Downton Abbey. I watch each episode 2 or 3 times in reruns and just cackle at some of the clever lines. I think I could memorize many scenes, and I have a lousy memory these days. Maggie Smith's character is my favorite, but I love following them all. I think the Upstairs serieses (both of them) are enjoyable in a different way, but worth watching too. Julian Fellows, who writes Downton also wrote Gosford Park which is my hubby's favorite movie. Similar idea, really. It's what I prefer to the "reality" shows that are often so vulgar and vacuous. Ok, stupid. The layers of class, the clothes, the house, the people. Ok, enough from me!

I just happened upon Upstairs, Downstairs last night. only the last 15 minutes of it though!

i never caught the U/D series when it first ran. A few months ago, I watched the entire series on Netflix and could not stop watching. The only thing I didn't like was the son... just not my kind of guy. however, it does not even compare with Downton Abbey in my humble opinion. The characters are all wonderful. I wasn't entirely thrilled with Shirley McClain's part... I really expected more from her. I feel so badly for Edyth :(

I just got hooked on Downton Abbey and so did the hubby...hehe. I agree with you Nancy...poor Edyth. I wonder if she'll go to America w/her gram...

Diannia

Oh, I think they will find Edith a really good job to do. Shirley's character was definitely not up to the Crawley standards, but she was fun. Happily her visit didn't last very long.

I predict that she will go to America too - poor thing - I am hooked on this series - and I love that each episode is about 1 1/2 hr each.

The original Upstairs downstairs is the gold standard for Masterpiece theater. I watched it back in the day and then got the VHS tapes when they came out. I have sat with them for hours. Downton Abbey is wonderful but will never eclipse U/D.

In this last eopisode did you see those hand-cranked sewing machines being used by the "reformed" women??? So cool...

I love Downton Abbey and yes really enjoyed those sewing machines!!