Julian Fellows' Novel SNOB - Pity the Fellow His Pithy Posturing on Aristocracy

Julian Fellows, a.k.a. Baron Fellows is quite the Renaissance Man.  Fellows is a writer, director, actor, screenwriter and producer.  He is most highly acclaimed for his association with the production of "Downton Abbey" (DA) as an executive producer.  SNOBS (2004) is a dated and droll depiction of the contemporary aristocracy that hovers above its adoring, social climbing inferiors.  Being born to the Manor, Fellows makes some wry observations of the exclusive savior faire narcissistic nature of the upper crust in society.   The British easily succumb to the silliness of titles as depicted in "Downton Abbey".  Although DA won us over as it imparted a humane chipping away at the veneer of socially endowed aristocracy.  SNOBS is merely a droll, self-congratulatory soap opera with a scandalous plot that doesn't say a lot.  Fellows feels he can perceive the pompousness of the wealthy class system since he himself is born into the society for which the middle class aspires.  The infatuation with the Royals does reach over the pond as evidenced by the recent Royal Wedding to an American.  Needless, there is no need to read (or finish reading) this frivolous fiction.  Edith makes a Faustian deal and marries Lord Charles Broughton well above her station to a much favored social advancement.   There are 2 narratives; one from a British actor friend of Edith's Peter, who lies someone within the strata sphere of social acceptance to the privileged; in part due to his family's bloodline.  Peter, is a charade for Fellows and Fellows also steps in as a narrative voice.  The insouciant observations are mildly amusing although they do tend to go on tediously as to become uncouth.   However, the sentiments of the privileged aristocracy are not without their cunningly cutting critiques.  Their cool insouciance which appears so chic & well mannered is so crashingly boring in practice.  Their incessant need to demonstrate their ties with others of their social rank is relentless.  And, it's impossible for the aristocracy to conceive of the notion that their very presence is a distinguished honor for whomever is fortunate to be permitted into their proximity.  The Achille's heel which the haughty taughty birthright does not automatically endow are good looks.  "Of brains, birth, beauty and money - it is beauty that makes locked doors spring open at a touch." Touche' - this was the most candid enviable attribute the elite envy across class lines.