In examining the fifth season of “Downton Abbey,” a number of significant missteps emerge that jeopardize the integrity of the series. Below are fourteen notable errors and oddities that detract from the overall narrative.
- Theme Music Shift: The iconic piano theme, which encapsulated the hopes and uncertainties of the British nation, has been replaced with the grim chords of “One” by Metallica. This change signifies a stark departure from the series’ established tone.
- Character Collapse: In a dramatic turn, one character becomes so overwhelmed by the constraints of the British class system that he literally implodes. The early signs of this breakdown are evident as his upper lip stiffens to the point where his moustache cracks.
- An Unlikely Visitor: The addition of a new character, a dark-haired exchange student from Austria named Aldo Hittler, raises eyebrows. While he expresses his opinions on Germany’s treatment after World War I, he also entertains the household with a comedic impersonation of Charlie Chaplin. The direction of this character remains uncertain, but viewers are promised significant developments.
- Historical Inaccuracy: Episode 6 features a glaring anachronism when Lady Edith Crawley reacts to news of her Picasso painting selling for $10,000. She reportedly sends a telegram concluding with, “OMG I can’t believe dis Megalolz YOLO ☺,” which seems highly improbable for a noblewoman in 1923.
- New Characters Abound: Season 5 introduces several new characters, including Philpot Scraggs, a well-known British actor portraying a befuddled man who breaks the fourth wall by shouting, “Straight bananas, is it, Brussels?” This character appears to have stumbled onto the set by accident.
- Social Commentary: The Crawley family continues to navigate the pressing social issues of their time, including absurd laws that dictate interactions between aristocrats and the working class, such as a bizarre mandate that requires the poor to punch themselves when addressing nobles.
- Unexpected Death: In true 21st-century drama fashion, a significant character meets an untimely demise. While details remain undisclosed, a Charleston marathon in episode 9 concludes with a shocking twist.
- Homage to Pop Culture: Episode 3 pays homage to the beloved series “Scooby Doo,” weaving in self-aware references and playful nods to the mystery genre.
- Foreshadowing Historical Events: In episode 4, Robert Crawley makes a comment about U.S. President Warren G. Harding’s health, implying significant events to come regarding the presidency and its implications on American society.
- Butler’s Secret: Long-serving butler Carson harbors a secret that not only explains his survival of an accidental shotgun incident in episode 6 but also sets the stage for a crossover with “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles” in episode 11.
- Tea-Making Sequence: Episode 5 features an extended 13-minute segment dedicated solely to the meticulous process of making tea and crumpets, presented in real time.
- Automobile Obsession: A plotline in episode 8 centers around the arrival of the first mass-produced British car, the Quiggsley Silver Sprat. One servant splurges an entire year’s wages on this vehicle, leading to a slow-speed chase that results in a knee bruise.
- Harsh Winter Survival: Episode 12 depicts the brutal winter of 1922-23, where residents of Downton resort to burning first editions of James Joyce’s “Ulysses” and Gainsborough paintings for warmth.
- A Shocking Revelation: The season culminates in a stunning twist—revealing that the entire narrative of “Downton Abbey” serves as a long prequel to “Breaking Bad,” suggesting an intricate connection between the two series.
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In summary, Season Five of “Downton Abbey” presents a series of glaring missteps and bizarre plot developments that challenge the viewer’s willingness to suspend disbelief. From musical changes to peculiar new characters and historical inaccuracies, these elements leave a lasting impression that may not align with the show’s earlier tone.