“Downton Abbey” is now a grand motion picture event and the Harbor Theater is holding its very first Sneak Preview. See the new film version of your favorite television program before it opens nationwide … be part of the costume contest (with prizes) and a pre-show reception at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 12; film at 7 p.m.  Regular screenings begin Friday, Sept. 20.

The beloved Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives. A royal visit from the King and Queen of England will unleash scandal, romance and intrigue that will leave the future of Downton hanging in the balance. Writer Julian Fellowes and the original cast return to tell the continuing story of the Crawley family, picking up the story line in late 1927. Like the television series, the film was shot at Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England.

Now back to that costume contest … Dress in your best British attire (or re-create a favorite character), sip a glass of champagne before the show, and enjoy this gala evening with friends.

Prizes will be awarded: 1st Prize - Best Character Portrayal: 4 free passes; 2nd Prize: Most Outrageous: 3 free passes; 3rd Prize: Most Elegant: 2 free passes

Just to get you started on your costume, here are a few of the characters you remember: Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville), Lady Grantham (Elizabeth McGovern), Lady Mary Talbot (Michelle Dockery), The Dowager Lady Grantham (Maggie Smith), Mr. Bates (Brendan Coyle), Daisy Mason (Sophie McShera), Mr. Carson (Jim Carter), Mrs. Hughes (Phyllis Logan), Anna Bates (Joanne Froggatt), Lady Bagshaw (Imelda Staunton), Lady Edith Crawley (Laura Carmichael).

Members-Only Pre-Sale: Friday, Aug. 9-16. Member $8 tickets available at the concessions desk nightly 6-6:30 p.m. and Sunday 1-1:30 p.m. Remaining tickets will be available to both members and the public at the door Sept. 12.

The Harbor Theater is in the Meadow Mall, 185 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor. FMI: www.boothbaycinema.org