Here's the deal: it's been over a year since "Downton Abbey" ended. One. Whole. Year. We still tell people that "Vulgarity is no substitute for wit" with sass that would make the Dowager Countess proud. Even those with the steel determination of Lady Mary can't help but cry over the deaths of Sybil and Matthew. We still root for Edith and Marigold to find their happily-ever-after. This show was special to so many people as it depicted these characters struggle with issues that are just as relevant today.
As much as we like to binge-watch the series again (and again, and again), we need to shake things up. I would love to see Matthew's proposal to Mary 18 more times, but I'm not sure how healthy that is. Thanks to Amazon Video and Julian Fellowes (creator of "Downton Abbey"), we can engage in a new story.
"Doctor Thorne" is based on a novel written by Anthony Trollope in 1858. Mary Thorne is the kind, intelligent niece of Dr. Tom Thorne. While the circumstances of her birth remain mysterious, her character and integrity are admired by all. She and Frank Gresham are in love, but their happily-ever-after is threatened by Frank's snobbish mother and aunt. Pressured to marry money (which Mary has none), Frank must decide whether to stay true to his love or save his family's estate. Meanwhile, the Scatcherd and Gresham estates fall into the volatile hands of Sir Louis Scatcherd. The wealth and land he acquires are not enough for the troubled young man; he wants Mary's hand in marriage, too.
What's a girl to do? Will love or money prevail?
The series has one season with four episodes lasting one hour each. While I'm crossing my fingers for a second season, there has been no word as of yet. Despite the series' brevity, the story and characters are compelling. Tom Hollander is brilliant as Doctor Thorne, a good man who navigates the complicated weave of predicaments with grace and wisdom. While Mary Thorne is Stefanie Martini's first starring role, she shines like a seasoned pro. "Community" alum Alison Brie is a scene-stealer as Miss Dunstable, a rich American whom Frank is instructed to woo.
Intrigued? You can watch "Doctor Thorne" anytime on Amazon Video. Here's a hint: college students get six months of Prime benefits for free through Amazon Student. Watch "Doctor Thorne" and "Downton Abbey" as often as your heart desires (for free!) in the next six months.
