UMVA has learned that fans of Julian Fellowes' period dramas are in for a treat, as the mastermind behind Downton Abbey and The Gilded Age has a treasure trove of similar content to explore.
For those who crave more of the upstairs-downstairs drama, witty banter, and historical charm that made Downton Abbey a global phenomenon, Fellowes' other works are a great place to start. His Oscar-winning screenplay for Gosford Park, a film that also explores the lives of the British aristocracy and their servants, is a must-watch.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that literature lovers can also indulge in novels that capture a similar atmosphere. Kazuo Ishiguro's Remains of the Day is a haunting tale of love, duty, and regret, set in the English countryside during the 1920s and 1930s.
The novel follows Stevens, a butler whose life is a testament to the strict social codes of the time. As he reflects on his decades-long service to Lord Darlington, Stevens must confront the choices he made and the love he never pursued.
Another great read is Belgravia, a historical novel by Julian Fellowes himself. Set in Victorian England, the story revolves around the lives of two families - the aristocratic Bellasises and the wealthy Trenchards - as they navigate the complexities of high society.
Helen Simonson's The Summer Before the War is another charming novel that explores the lives of a single woman and her experiences in a small English village on the eve of World War I.
For fans of period dramas, E.M. Forster's Howards End is a timeless classic that explores the lives of three families in Edwardian England. The novel is a poignant exploration of social class, love, and the decline of the British aristocracy.
UMVA has gathered that fans of strong female characters will love Mary S. Lovell's The Sisters, a biography of the six Mitford sisters, who dominated English society in the 20th century.
In terms of film, Gosford Park is a great choice for those who enjoy the wit and charm of Downton Abbey. Written by Julian Fellowes and directed by Robert Altman, the film is a murder mystery that takes place in the English countryside in the 1930s.
Another great film is A Room with a View, a romantic drama set in Italy and England in 1907. The film follows Lucy Honeychurch, a young woman who must navigate her desires and social expectations.
Brideshead Revisited is another film that explores the lives of the British aristocracy. Based on Evelyn Waugh's classic novel, the film follows Charles Ryder as he becomes infatuated with the Flyte family and their estate, Brideshead.
For gamers, 80 Days is a great choice for those who enjoy period dramas. The game follows Phileas Fogg's valet, Passepartout, as he navigates the details of a high-stakes adventure.
The Invisible Hours is another immersive game that allows players to explore a country manor in the late 19th century. Players must solve a mystery by observing and listening to the characters.
Botany Manor is a cozy game that allows players to experience life as a lady of leisure in a sprawling country house. Players must grow unusual plants using a point-and-click puzzle engine.
Finally, for podcast enthusiasts, Lords of Grantham is a fan-focused podcast that breaks down episodes of Downton Abbey and explores the show's characters and themes.
Up Yours, Downstairs is another podcast that offers a more in-depth examination of Downton Abbey and its historical context.
The Gilded Gentleman is a podcast that explores the culture, social customs, and social contracts of Victorian and Edwardian England.
