JUDY

JUDY:  In 1969, Judy Garland traveled to London for a series of sold-out concerts at "Talk of the Town" while fighting alcoholism, depression and substance abuse.  This film chronicles that period in her tragic life.  But, the film itself is almost a tribute to her stamina and determination despite the demons.  Renee Zellweger as Garland brings pathos as well as a substantial amount of humor to the role.  Putting her own spin on the Garland songbook is an almost unsurmountable task, but she does admirably most of the time, capturing the waning days of a beloved performer with compassion and sensitivity, as well as a possible Oscar nomination.  Ultimately, the film is an emotional roller-coaster with many highs and lows, (the highs being the musical numbers) and one comes away with a certain sadness from watching an icon dying in slow motion. The ending will bring tears to your eyes (at least it did to mine).

DOWNTON ABBEY

DOWNTON ABBEY:  This highly anticipated movie following the Crawley family and their servants to the big screen was well worth the wait.  It is a splendid piece of work.  With all of the original cast returning, it is an absolute joy to see them  again along with a few new faces, notably Imelda Staunton as Lady Bagshaw.  (In real life, married to Jim Carter who plays Mr. Carson, the head butler) In this outing, there is a bit of an uproar when the Crawleys learn that King Edward V and Queen Mary are about to pay them a visit.  And what fun that is, watching the household prepare for such an auspicious occasion, with the wonderful Maggie Smith offering pertinent remarks along the way.  The fly in the ointment, however, is when the household learns that the Royals travel with their own chef and other assistants (even a housekeeper) which sends the downstairs help into a tizzy with all sorts of schemes and shenanigans  arising.  New love interests also make an appearance and may leave a tiny bit of room for another future film.  (Here's hoping!)  If you were a fan of the wonderful BBC series, (or even if it's new to you) treat yourself to this sumptuous look at Downton Abbey in this excellent film written and directed by Julian Fellowes.