Gosford Park (2001) is a British mystery drama directed by Robert Altman, blending murder mystery with social satire.

Set in 1932, the film takes place at a lavish English country estate where a group of aristocrats and their servants gather for a weekend of hunting and leisure. However, tensions simmer beneath the surface, and when the wealthy host, Sir William McCordle (Michael Gambon), is found murdered, the household descends into chaos.

The film follows two interconnected worlds: the privileged guests upstairs and the hardworking servants downstairs. The guests include Lady Sylvia (Kristin Scott Thomas), Sir William’s discontented wife; Countess Trentham (Maggie Smith), a sharp-tongued dowager; and a variety of social climbers, secret lovers, and outsiders. Meanwhile, the servants, led by housekeeper Mrs. Wilson (Helen Mirren) and maid Mary (Kelly Macdonald), navigate their own rivalries and loyalties.

As an inspector (Stephen Fry) arrives to solve the murder, the film shifts its focus from a traditional whodunit to a deeper exploration of class divides, hidden resentments, and personal tragedies. The real intrigue lies not just in uncovering the killer but in exposing the power dynamics and hypocrisies of British high society.

With a sprawling ensemble cast, including Clive Owen, Emily Watson, and Alan Bates, Gosford Park is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling. Altman’s signature overlapping dialogue and naturalistic direction create a rich, immersive atmosphere. The film was highly acclaimed, winning the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and earning seven nominations, including Best Picture.

Blending sharp wit, poignant drama, and social critique, Gosford Park is more than a murder mystery—it’s a layered, engaging portrait of a fading aristocratic world, making it a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and sophisticated storytelling.