It was announced today by Focus Features chairman Peter Kujawski that Focus has set production with Carnival Films on the movie. The original principal cast from the acclaimed television series have assembled to return for the feature which will begin production later this summer. Also returning from the series is its creator Academy-Award® winner Julian Fellowes who wrote the film's screenplay and will produce alongside Gareth Neame and Liz Trubridge. Brian Percival (The Book Thief, About a Girl), who directed the series' pilot, will direct the film. Nigel Marchant will also return to executive produce.
Downton Abbey follows the lives of the aristocratic family, the Crawleys, as well as the servants who work for them. The series aired for 6 seasons and garnered 3 Golden Globe Awards, 15 Primetime Emmy Awards, a Special BAFTA award and 69 Emmy nominations in total, making Downton Abbey the most nominated non-US television show in the history of the Emmys - even earning a Guinness World Record for the highest critically rated TV show along the way.
"When the television series drew to a close it was our dream to bring the millions of global fans a movie and now, after getting many stars aligned, we are shortly to go into production. Julian's script charms, thrills and entertains and in Brian Percival's hands we aim to deliver everything that one would hope for as Downton comes to the big screen", said Gareth Neame, Carnival's Executive Chairman and the film's producer.
Focus chairman Peter Kujawski said, "Since the series ended, fans of Downton have long been waiting for the Crawley family's next chapter. We're thrilled to join this incredible group of filmmakers, actors and craftspeople, led by Julian Fellowes and Gareth Neame, in bringing back the world of Downton to the big screen."
The Downton Abbey movie is a Carnival Films production, with Focus Features and Universal Pictures International distributing.
To get your fix of Downton Abbey, fans can head to Downton Abbey: The Exhibition. This fully immersive experience allows visitors to be transported on an incredible journey through the grand home of the Crawleys; from Lady Mary's bedroom and the sumptuous dining room, to Mrs. Patmore's hectic kitchen. Including over 55 authentic costumes as well as props and sets from the TV series, Downton Abbey comes vividly to life through interactive displays and visitor experiences. Launched in November to huge visitor attendance, rapturous fan feedback and extraordinary critical acclaim, the Exhibition showcases the enduring global appeal of Downton via a stunning recreation of the house, the fashion and the history of the era. The Exhibition is based in New York at 218 W 57th Street until 3rd September. Tickets are available at www.downtonexhibition.com.
