The Remains of the Day (1993)

Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Britain, "The Remains of the Day" is a poignant exploration of the lives of the steadfast butler James Stevens (Sir Anthony Hopkins) and the spirited housekeeper Sarah Kenton (Dame Emma Thompson), simply known as Sally under the most informal of circumstances. Their intertwined narratives unravel within the hallowed halls of Darlington Hall in Oxfordshire, where Stevens' unwavering commitment to decorum and service is juxtaposed with Sally's warmth and vibrant humanity. The story largely unfolds in the 1930s, shortly after their paths converge. Stevens, the head of the manor's servant staff, hires Sally as the new housekeeper for the estate's stable of servants, owned by Lord Darlington (James Fox). This sets the stage for a captivating, complex relationship that straddles the delicate line between professional co-workers and potential lovers. Their bond is further complicated by Stevens' unyielding dedication to his role and a staunch belief in maintaining propriety, which often results in him concealing his deeper emotions. Meanwhile, Sally, who performs her duties with unparalleled competence, yearns for Stevens to step beyond the constraints of formality, believing this might make him an even better butler. As the potential for romance smolders beneath the surface, the unfolding geopolitical drama adds another layer of tension. Lord Darlington's controversial dealings with the Nazi cause shake the very foundation of the house, challenging Stevens' devout servitude and further testing his relationship with Sally. The narrative then leaps to the 1950s, revealing a poignant epilogue after a two-decade separation and seven years of silence between the duo. Stevens, still residing at Darlington Hall under its new American owner, retired Representative Jack Lewis (Christopher Reeve), ventures to the west country town of Clevedon to implore the now-separated Mrs. Benn to return to her former duties. Brimming with nuance and emotional depth, "The Remains of the Day" is a compelling tale of duty, decorum, and unspoken desires, where the personal and the political collide, forever altering the destiny of two humble servants.

The Remains of the Day is a drama movie featuring Jeffry Wickham.

The Remains of the Day is currently streaming on History Vault and Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel .

It is also possible to buy The Remains of the Day on AMC on Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.