Downton Abbey

The first season was so amazing. I was immersed in the era more than any other period piece I've ever seen (movie or tv). The story lines were definitely dramatic, but within reason. But then it began a rapid decline and became nothing more than an expensive soap opera. I stopped watching, but perhaps one day I'll finish out the series.

Took me a while to get into this show but it's done quite well

okay series

Didn't make it past the second season as it seemed like a steady downhill in writing quality. The first season was stunningly well made.

I admit that I got really bored with the storyarches, which could all be summed up as 'difficulties are thrown at the family and servants, but they persevere through common sense and warm hearts and a bit of stiff upper lip until the superduper happy ending'. But I liked the characters (especially the Dowager Duchess), there were some great lines (especially the Dowager Duchess) and lots of pretty set designs and dresses to entertain the eyes.