I watched Upstairs, Downstairs while suffering from "Downton Abbey withdrawal symptoms" and was pleasantly surprised. If they do do another series, and I personally think they should, what they can improve on is perhaps make the episodes longer-and a little slower too so that we have a tad more room to breathe- so that the characters and situations can be developed a little more.
That said, I saw potential. It is not as good as Downton Abbey- which was one of the better programmes airing last year- or the original Upstairs, Downstairs which was full of class and elegance and still one of my favourites, but actually this was one of the more pleasantly surprising(if not perfect) programmes over the Christmas break. While not among the best(Eric and Ernie), it wasn't among the worst(Whistle and I'll Come to You).
As it was with DA and the original US/DS, the production values are wonderful. I always love a series with beautiful scenery, skillful photography and wondrous costumes and US/DS had plenty of those. The music is also pleasant and very well composed if sometimes overdone, the dialogue in general is good and flows well with some both humorous and poignant moments, the stories are interesting(the 3rd episode had the most heart) and the characters are likable.
I think the acting is quite good. I personally don't have a problem with Jean Marsh, and while I am not a Keeley Hawes fan strictly speaking I thought she was good and fitted in with the period more than adequately. Ed Stoppard, Claire Foy, Anne Reid and especially Eileen Atkins were even better though, and while he could have done with more to do I quite liked Art Malik too.
All in all, it wasn't perfect, if they bring it back I think it has potential to grow and be better, but even with its flaws I quite liked it. If it comes back though, please can it more than 3 episodes? 8/10 Bethany Cox
