Why are you not watching......Downton Abbey?

The buzz from critics about United Kingdom import “Downton Abbey” is turned all the way up but it seems the mainstream has been slow to embrace a narrative centered on the inner workings of a private home and its servants. If you’re one of those who feel as if you wouldn’t be all that interested in this series because it’s set so far in the past you’re not alone. But don't let the setting of early twentieth century England deter you there is plenty of passion in this PBS series. It begins on the brink of significant social change in England. The old ways are giving way to a new world that is as exciting as it is unpredictable.

Ushered in with this era are sex, revenge, and scandal. The warring siblings, thieving servants and badly behaved debutantes are all somewhat expected but the biggest surprise about the show is the humor. The matriarch of the Crawley family has more jokes than K. Michelle from Love and Hip Hop Atlanta! No one and nothing is safe from her criticism and her sharpened tongue provides the perfect amount levity in between the more dramatic scenes.

Along with being full of suspense “Downton Abbey” is visually stimulating. Emmy winning costume designer Susanna Buxton assembles a number of remarkable frocks in each and every episode. It is a credit to her talent that there is less flourish in the wardrobe here than in other shows. The beauty is subtle charmer adding to instead of obscuring the vivid plot lines.

The show is set in the past but the storylines could compete placed any time period which is what makes it so impressive. The writers don’t hide behind historical events and corseted dresses they force themselves to construct a legitimate story.

Downton Abbey is available both on Netflix and the PBS website. Give it a chance you won’t be disappointed.