Strange to think that after tonight’s episodes we have only the season finale… the annual Christmas Special. But because that means storylines need to start getting tidied up, well… things start getting more tidy. If there’s a strong theme running through both of these, it’s justice, as several characters receive their just desserts, both good and bad.
The first episode starts with Bates being released from prison, a domino falling that begins the chain reaction through both episodes. In truth, it’s good both of these air together, as the repercussions of this don’t end until the end of this episode. With Bates back on staff, the question becomes how to shuffle the staff so Bates can return to his position as Lord Grantham’s valet. This culminates in an explosion of epic proportions of the love pentagon among Thomas, Ivy, Daisy, Jimmy, and Alfred as O’Brien’s machinations come to fruition. And Matthew continues his quest to modernize the running of Downton, recruiting a new colleague: his brother-in-law Tom Branson.
There’s a lot here to love. Some other highlights and subplots:
The Christening of baby Sybil approaches, and we get a visit from Tom’s brother.
The Dowager Countess plots to help simultaneously remove the scandal of Ethel’s employment and improve her lot.
An underage cousin visits from London and it turns out she’s a bit of a party girl.
Lord Grantham is preoccupied with making sure his house team wins an annual cricket game versus the village.
Both Matthew and Mary are worried she is not yet pregnant, straining their marriage.
Bates telling Thomas he’ll be his weapon. *chills*
The biggest problem with tonight’s episode? It was going up against The Walking Dead. So how does one divide his loyalties between fancy-schmancy high drama and zombies? Well, at least Downton Abbey isn’t quite so bleak and not all the main characters die all the time… yet.
We’ll see you next week for the final Downton of Season 3. Keep those pinkies raised.