Downton Abbey - Seasons 1-4

In 2001, master filmmaker Robert Altman directed "Gosford Park," one of his most popular movies. The screenplay was written by Julian Fellowes, who would go on to win a well-deserved Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Fellowes had a knack for blending the drama of "Upstairs, Downstairs" and Merchant Ivory movies with a modern, ADHD-required sensibility.

In 2010 he put his talents to good use and created "Downton Abbey" for Masterpiece and Carnival Films. The show bowed in the UK and became quite a sensation in America a few months later, garnering devoted fans as well as numerous accolades, including major primetime Emmy nominations and wins.

For those unfamiliar with "Downton," what is wrong with you? Take this Blu-ray box set as a terrific opportunity to join civilization and become engaged in one of the most absorbing, fascinating, brilliantly-acted TV shows ever produced! And lovers of camp rejoice because nothing beats Dame Maggie Smith's line deliveries: "What is a week-end?"

From the opening shot of Morse code being sent signaling the sinking of the Titanic (and a key figure's death) in April of 1912 (plunging our cast into panic since it means there is now no male heir to take over the estate), the show grabs hold of the viewer and never lets go. Highlights include the scenes where Lady Mary (the astoundingly good Michelle Dockery) must deal with a dead man in her bed (hottie Theo James), the delightfully wicked banter between the Dowager Countess (Smith) and her cousin Isobel (Penelope Wilton), the engaging romance between Lady Mary and Matthew (Dan Stevens) and the bittersweet courtship of loyal servants Anna (Joanne Froggatt) and Bates (Brendan Coyle) and his eventual arrest for murder.

In addition, one has to mention the deliciously evil (but lovable), gay first footman Thomas (sexy Rob James-Collier), who will do just about anything to get ahead.

These "Limited Edition" Blu-ray discs contain every episode to date and a host of supplemental material that increases in volume with each season. They include some fascinating featurettes, as well as a significant "Behind the Drama" doc that runs 48 minutes.

The 1.78:1 high def 1080p widescreen transfer looks exquisite, and 2.0 English DTS-HD Master audio is clean and crisp -- the WW1 trenches moments sound particularly terrifying.

Watching "Downton" with its clever dialogue, signature tracking shots and quick-concise scenes that never seem to last more than a minute in length is an addictive experience. You'll want to begin binge-watching now since season five begins in late January.

"Downton Abbey (Masterpiece)" Seasons 1-4 Box Set
Blu-ray
$99.99
http://www.shoppbs.org/product/