It's official! 'Downton Abbey' film in works with series cast returning

Downton Abbey is officially heading to the big screen with series creator Julian Fellowes and pilot director Brian Percival set to kick-start the production on the feature film this year, with the original main cast from the hit series returning to star.

The film will be a Carnival Films production, with Focus Features and Universal Pictures International distributing, reported Deadline.

"When the television series drew to a close it was our dream to bring the millions of global fans a movie and now, after getting many stars aligned, we are shortly to go into production.

"Julian's script charms, thrills and entertains and in Brian Percival's hands we aim to deliver everything that one would hope for as 'Downton' comes to the big screen," Gareth Neame, Carnival's executive chairman, said.

The original principal cast, including Maggie Smith, Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville and more, are set to reprise their roles.

Not every recurring character seen over the years will feature in the film, although Highclere Castle will return as the family's hub.

A release date for the movie has yet to be decided.