The film opens with a group of aristocrats and their servants traveling to Gosford Park, the country estate of Sir William McCordle (played by Michael Gambon) and Lady Sylvia McCordle (played by Kristin Scott Thomas), for a weekend shooting party. Among the guests are Sir William’s relatives, friends, and a few outsiders, including film producer Morris Weissman (played by Bob Balaban) and his valet Henry Denton (played by Ryan Phillippe).
As the guests settle into the grand estate, tensions simmer beneath the surface, revealing the class divides and power dynamics at play. The upstairs guests engage in polite society rituals, while the downstairs servants attend to their every need, all while harboring their own resentments and secrets.
The central event of the weekend is the pheasant shoot, during which Sir William is found murdered in his study. Inspector Thompson (played by Stephen Fry) is called to investigate the murder, assisted by Constable Dexter (played by Ron Webster). As the investigation unfolds, the film explores the complex relationships and motivations of the guests and servants, uncovering secrets, betrayals, and long-held grudges.
Among the suspects are Sir William’s wife, Lady Sylvia, who has been having an affair with the handsome but penniless Henry Denton; his two daughters, Lady Louisa Stockbridge (played by Geraldine Somerville) and Lady Lavinia Meredith (played by Natasha Wightman), who stand to inherit his fortune; and his resentful son-in-law, Lord Stockbridge (played by Charles Dance).
As Inspector Thompson and Constable Dexter interview the guests and servants, they piece together the events leading up to Sir William’s murder. Meanwhile, the guests continue their socializing and scheming, seemingly indifferent to the tragedy that has occurred.
In a series of surprising revelations, the true motives behind Sir William’s murder are uncovered, exposing the greed, jealousy, and desperation lurking beneath the facade of polite society. The film culminates in a dramatic confrontation that changes the lives of the characters forever.
In the end, “Gosford Park” is a richly layered and intricately plotted mystery that offers a captivating glimpse into the world of English aristocracy and their servants. Through its masterful direction, stellar performances, and sharp wit, the film provides a thought-provoking exploration of class, privilege, and human nature, while keeping audiences guessing until the very end.