Feature: Britt Allcroft's Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends TV series celebrates 30th anniversary

Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends celebrated its 30th birthday today.

The TV series made its debut three decades ago today on itv in the United Kingdom on October 9th 1984, with Ringo Starr narrating the first televised episode, Thomas and Gordon.

The Railway Series creator Rev. W. Awdry and Starr at the time promoted the First Season on BBC One's Good Morning Britain in a live interview.

The show was filmed with full scale models at the prestigious Shepperton Studios in London, directed by the late David Mitton.

20 years later, the series' format was refreshed under Hit Entertainment and direction by veteran Steve Asquith in 2004 with the arrival of the Eighth Season on British television.

2009 saw the model era replaced by full CGI of Greg Tiernan and Nitrogen Studios Canada with the Hero of the Rails special, and the 13th Season following on a year later, head written by Sharon Miller.

2013 brought another change in Arc Productions Toronto continuing the CGI tradition and head writer Andrew Brenner starting with King of the Railway, bringing in Rob Silvestri to direct future specials.

That same year, the 17th Season arrived through David Baas before being replaced as director by David Stoten and Don Spencer for the latest 18th Season.

Before the milestone, Channel 5, the current home of new episodes for the UK, aired the first 16 of Season 18 from August 25th to September 16th. With 10 yet for broadcast, several are planned for DVD releases.

The 30th anniversary run has garnered a mostly positive response, some of which had already been received after being previewed on the US Trouble on the Tracks DVD.

Also acclaimed by fans was Tale of the Brave, the eighth feature-length special and the ninth movie overall in the franchise, which found its way onto UK DVD at the start of September.

Throughout its 30 years in the UK and US, Ringo Starr, Michael Angelis, George Carlin, Alec Baldwin, Michael Brandon, Pierce Brosnan and Mark Moraghan have made the pantheon of men narrating the many tales of Sodor.

Mike O' Donnell and Junior Campbell composed the Classic tenure's music before handing over to Robert Hartshorne and Ed Welch for the New Series, the latter for sing-a-long songs. Hartshorne continues to score the show today.

Presently, the day was marked with commendations from fans on social media, bringing attention to the Thomas & Friends UK Twitter and facebook pages.

Creator and producer Britt Allcroft, who masterminded the show's launch and its early classic seasons, paid tribute to its enduring legacy and its fans on her facebook page.

Within a couple of weeks, we found out we had 5 million viewers and all the passion, hard work, and despite the ne'er do wells, the years of preparation were all so very worthwhile. So many wonderful people to remember.

David and all the crew, Ringo, Mike and Junior, plus Lewis Rudd of ITV, who believed enough to take the gamble to give us a national TV slot, and our local bank manager.

Without his confidence, there wouldn't have been money to fund the first series! And you, the incredible fans, Everyone of you. Long live storytelling and the wonders of imagination. With love to you all wherever you are.

Hit Entertainment meanwhile are to focus on the 70th anniversary of The Railway Series in 2015.

With preperations underway, the celebrations are to coincide with a prospected 19th season of the TV show and another special, with an array of special events and surprises in store.

Report: 'Tale of the Brave: The Movie' Vue premiere log

Waking up at 7am to catch a 7:53am train from the South Coast to London Victoria paved the way for what would turn out to be a packed but thrilling day at the Tale of the Brave blue carpet premiere.

Turning up at Leicester Square for the 10am arrival, a replica of Thomas and the appearance of The Fat Controller by a VIP arrivals spot was greeted by the PR team at Halpern. My faithful contact Candice, who I had been speaking to in the lead up, directed me to the foyer where the after-party would eventually take place.

Complimentary cupcakes, nibbles, Thomas fruit juice and smoothies from waiters were on offer to all the guests, as a few at a time, several parties made their way into the foyer to the backing track of Engine Roll Call, which I eventually heard looping for over an amassed 30 times! A table of Tale colouring pages were layed out as was a Wooden Railway play area. One guest of which early on was Wilbert Awdry's daughter, Veronica Chambers.

Thomas and The Fat Controller face the music. Taken by Louie Sparkes.

It was a conscious sense not to approach bearing in mind the passing of loving sister Hilary Fortnam. Ten minutes pass and Mark Moraghan in smart casual wear and a leather jacket shows up with his wife and two kids before light entertainment from Sharky & George started to show fun tricks to children, at one point right near a bemused Moraghan!

Presenter Vanessa Feltz makes her way in as a gentleman who I remember from the past walks near me and starts to check his bag. Greeting him, it was Alf Fortnam, widow to Hilary who I encountered along with Veronica and Hilary after the Day of the Diesels premiere in Hamleys Regent Street. Alf recalls this and we get into conversation about each other's hobbies.

He accepts his wife's passing by tributing her tireless work for the Christian faith and mentions the public debate in the press about her attempts in changing the winter holidays scandal. I reply to how the said issue resulted in delaying Merry Winter Wish's by a year, something that he was unaware of but knew about the re-dubbing happening behind-the-scenes.

Another gentleman pops over and introduces himself revealing to be the Awdry's manager, whose name unfortunately couldn't be heard owing to the noisy environment. He comments on Hilary and brother Christopher Awdry's infatuation for their father's work. I question why Christopher doesn't turn up to the premieres.

Entering the pre-show area.

Alf gives an understandable answer that he likes to keep a low profile and wants it to stay that way. I ask if he has anymore Railway stories in mind. Alf again quips, no, he is finished with it. He feels that the last one [No. 43. Thomas and His Friends] was the real closing chapter. It did say "THE END" at the last page. We thank each other for the chat and go to speak to other friends.

Stills from Tale are seen up close on an overaching desk with Tale ham or cheese lunchboxes up for children's grub needs. Next to it's left is a big artwork of Thomas, Percy and James as seen on the DVDs and posters. Mark Moraghan is then interviewed by a small camera crew of two talking about his role and the special.

Five minutes later, I approach him and remembers me from a previous encounter, after performing in 9 to 5: The Musical in Southampton. I share a few tidbits of my week at the time including filming as an extra on a comedy show for ITV2 for late September till we speak of one of his upcoming films, Allies, on its trailer, premise and slightly confusing distribution. We're all called to go downstairs to Screen 5 so the both of us say goodbye.

After starting to make my way to my seat, a familar face greets me. ellsworth who I hadn't seen since The Star Tugs Trust's Battlefield Railway convention in March. We catch-up on how we got to the event, who else is in the room, a few hush hushes on new episodes and the security of spoiling the film before we sit down in our allocated seats as the film is about to start.

Tale of the Brave becomes the event of the week.

Next to me sits a man with his family, similar to my age, who reveals himself to be one of the competition winners. Some talk of our travels, collection of DVDs ensues. Not before the lights dim and who pops in than none other than The Fat Controller to introduce the main attraction. He compères proceedings, encourages the children to feel the excitement and goes on to urge the following.

I have to say this to all of you that there must be no recordings allowed so... please, turn off your phones and you will be all be really useful. Now, are we ready to go? Well without further ado, here it is, enjoy the fim, its time for Tale of the Brave. Bye bye! Four Thomas commercials play out including Thomas Land, Take-n-Play, Day Out with Thomas and TrackMaster before the special's second trailer ends the advertisements. The film starts...

Some laughter, wailing, gasping and open mouths later, the end credits finish and the audience applauds. It was very good. Everyone exits the room after 11am and make their way back upstairs for the after-party. A few minutes later, I rendezvous with ellsworth again as he talks to a woman with the Awdry manager who asks her to sign the Big Golden Book of Tale.

I get puzzled, so she jokes with her presumed celebrity status. I introduce myself and she follows. I'm Sara Fortnam, I'm Alf's daughter. She then remembers her mother and jokes of her father dragging her out in the wet. Trading of what we do, she leaves a few moments later.

One scene from the posters was not in the story.

I then realise that someone is by my shoulder. A voice murmurs and a hand shake is offered. Ryan from SiF greets me after meeting briefly at the above mentioned Battlefield event. This time round, we talked more, as did fellow SiFer Christopher. Ryan comments on how brilliant the film was and of its strength in its story. He then mentions of my departure from the blog saying that for four years.

The commitment was there and I can understand for it to be hard for you to do it when you have your life and career to look forward to in the way. Not every person can be free to keep on going with those fandom projects like us with our ones because we are in the same position too. The subject matter of Martin T. Sherman's departure from the US Thomas voice is brought up.

Ryan tells me more of it which surprises me and another insider, but those things are perhaps best left unsaid. A woman comes over to give us our this time cotton goodie bags with Thomas chocolates, a poster, a Story Library book, a MEGA Bloks pack, a Take-n-Play model but no Tale DVD.

Ryan and Christopher are confused as to why they have a copy each of The Complete Series 15. I go one up by discovering that I have two copies in hand! I then consider to give one to a boy I know near where I live, until Ryan steps in rather manically to prevent me from doing it. Some rude words are shared by him!

The afterparty. The Fat Controller introduces the film. The goodie bag.

We then go to meet a person who remembers the duo and is known as Ian McCue, producer for the show, who went on to explain how hard it is for head writer Andrew Brenner to think up the strengthness of material as witnessed in the film, even going to say that, King of the Railway was the starting point for the new times of the series but Tale of the Brave really packs a lot of punch with the emotion and isolation of the story and characters.

We are then treated tellings of what's to come for the next few years concerning returning characters, what the focus is of the next feature-length special and big plans for the 70th anniversary of the brand. You are all in for a treat, you just have to wait and contain. Big things are coming, one of those is a real game-changer. Ian then directs us to a familiar face who shakes hands with all of us. Keith Wickham.

Keith remembers of my interview he did for me near the blog's beginnings and goes on to say that , the film was great. I had a lot of fun with it. He then queries that Jonathan Broadbent probably based his Bill and Ben voices on a new Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise. We then joke of what kind of classic comedians who seem fit for voices for future new or returning characters. I mention Tommy Cooper, to which Ian and Keith get in awe of. It was a matter of time before Ryan chose the inevitable Billy Connolly!

Ryan and Christopher speak of their infatuation with Keith's Yorkshire Stafford being a perfect fit. Ryan jokingly questions of trying to get a Scotsman voice into the series. Keith reminds him of his Harvey voice. We all realise that Ryan did not even know that Keith voices the crane engine! Keith says goodbye, as does Ian.

Friends in SiF. Hamley's Thomas & Friends area. Reuniting with two old mates.

Ryan and Christopher are ready to leave as the former has to catch a plane back to his home of Scotland. He mentions that Louie is outside wanting to talk to him. I realise that this is the same Louie I know of Sparkes [skarlouie], a real friend. He is surprised to see me and I'm surprised to see him with Michael Evans [AardmanMike]. They are pleased to meet the two before hugs are given to see my friends again after a gap of three years.

Posing for photos and joking around, SiF parts company. The remaining three of us have the time to hang out for a much needed catch-up. I share the film without spoiling but tease it rather delicately and what could be store for the three of us, based on earlier comments.

We eat, partly during a quick typhoon of a summer storm for 15 minutes in the square, and lead ourselves to see merchandise in Hamley's and lark about. 6:45pm comes and we decide to part ways in order to get home safely.

With the gleeful excitement that happened and the new friends made in life, it was a fancy day full of gossip and fulfillment, so thank you to the team at Hit Entertainment and the PR folks at Halpern for the day. It was lovely.

See you next year for the next tale.

Tale of the Brave: The Movie rolls into Vue cinemas across the UK from August 22nd to 28th. The DVD is released in the UK on September 1st, the US triple play Blu-ray on the 16th and in Australia and New Zealand on October 1st.

Thomas & Friends' 18th Season premieres on Channel 5 milkshake! in the UK on August 25th at 7:35am, with the episode, Old Reliable Edward.

'Tale of the Brave' Spoiler-Free Review: The Verdict

There is much reliability to make a special good then to up the stakes for what comes after. But can it disappoint? Sometimes...

This is where it is better to be secretive to others who have yet to see a finished product. If there is a shock or a twist or a joyous moment, it can be a better feeling to be surprised and to have that thrill every now and then. The proper viewing experience, how its meant to be. This is where this review falls, no spoilers. You pay to see the film for the excitement and not to be a complete show-off to the world.

So, be inclined to agree to those who do tend to open their mouths that you would like them to keep schtum. Tagging a first TV debut for Season 18 at the end, here is the Roll Along Thomas spoiler-free review for the Tale of the Brave.

From the moment the first visual appears, it is already fan service, and this is only through an extended pre-titles sequence clocking in at five minutes. The first two visuals in question have already been advertised, but they fit in so perfectly that it is as if the film is saying that you won't be disappointed for what else is in store, and thankfully, that is where Tale hits the mark.

We follow Thomas to re-introduce the Clay Pits, which looks spectacular, and it is here that Arc Productions and Rob Silvestri's guidance show what they can do creatively with the now much bolder and visually dazzling animation. Bill and Ben are back to their tricky selves, the start of Railway Series references, as Thomas struggles to rendezvous with them, leading to a few moments of camera following engine with no narration for 40 seconds!

All that is heard is the chuff chuff environmental soundscape and the atmospheric music by team Hartshorne, Robert and Peter. Timothy, voiced with a brummy dialect by Tim Whitnall, is given an introduction from a mishap involving his trucks and Thomas, so Bill and Ben are here to stay. This leads to Thomas taking a load away and moving towards the start of an avalanche, one of a few ensuing trouble for the engines.

The footprints discovery is made, but this discovery is not the same "finding a lost or new engine or place and ending with a grand opening", this special is different and has many surprises along the way. But the blue engine gets into trouble, so are they any heroes about?

What follows in the title sequence is something that will certainly make the long-term fans be in awe of, not necessarily in the illustrations, but with the font and the 40s style work to the night theme used. Its a real coo, it promises a lot to come. We find the Steam Team, the clay twins and silent input from a singular Rosie cameo and eventual three timer Stanley in the yards with The Fat Controller encouraging the engines to work down to the coal.

We say hello to Marion in the pits who is informative with her presence. It is as if the pen of Andrew Brenner wants to really educate the audience and he does that a few more times later on. Marion shows colours of bubbliness and companionship while singing songs during work. The BAFTA winning actress voicing clearly had to have a lot of fun with her, not in her occasional screen time, but to provide all that bubbly. Wait for the end credits to learn her name!

The silhouette of our big new accomplice Gator creeps past the screen by a glittering pond and horizon, tied in with in the moment CGI, a fearful piece of soundtrack, a scared frog and again no narration for 25 seconds, this is heavenly spooky direction. Percy gradually takes over as the lead with the start of a scene at a busy workplace involving the mail run.

Moving through the misty hills and hitting the bottom, it is here that the green little un' develops the continuous scared-ness upon finding the moving silhouette creeping towards him. With probably a sense of railway rule forgetfulness, we're back at The Docks to say a humble greeting to the alligator gentle giant, thrown in with a few bits of humour from an accidental Cranky and Thomas.

Gator assures us of his being and having the brave-ness to get on with life, a theme that is reminded in many ways through the hour. But Percy is still unsure of the brave as he fears for his protection in a Tim Burton-esque musical sequence of Monsters Everywhere, boldy going where no Thomas production has gone before, most notably at the end of the interval involving some cartoon-ish imagery.

Percy misses the mark of time and severely affects punctuality, something that Topham Hatt acknowledges. James is back to his teasy ways not long after the events of The Phantom Express, but plays it out as if its an extended version of Scaredy Engines. Gator tells Percy of his past, in another treat from Arc, reminding of his issue with gravity.

Percy takes this into account and, at some point during sunset, tells Thomas about what he feels he should do. If you saw King of the Railway and appreciated the downplay of the special coal issue, wait till you hear Thomas' reply. Its a whoofer of a throwaway line and it will make you laugh!

Continuing to bully No. 6, James finds himself in a diversion and encounters, to quote Blackadder, a twisty turny thing. Reg is unfortunately severely limited in this feature and is just there... just there, its a disappointment. This also applies to Timothy, who even talkative at the first quarter is later relegated to a sleeping scene in the third quarter. Gator however guides Percy through and plays a dominant supporting role in the assurance of confinement.

But Gator's residential status and origins are questioned. Another musical interval follows with the duo travelling together and assuring one another, with the aid of peaceful instruments similar to Blue Mountain Mystery and the return of a vocalist that will make you whoop a little cheer, Tale of the Brave will make you smile and take things in your hearts.

During this, Gator becomes cautious over a long section of track. When Percy passes it, Gator succeeds in brave-ness, then comes an extreme wide shot of the referred location last seen in the 16th Season. It is a big beautiful shot, thank you Arc.

But No. 5 has none of Percy's beliefs and is helped by a considerable sort of henchman to frighten him. He mercilessly taunts the small engine back at sheds, leading to the tender engines to tease him more. It is Emily's moment to shine and a one line delivery will make you love and believe in her more, its brilliant.

Enough is enough for Percy and he proceeds to take matters into his own buffers by lifting his ego away at Brendam. He is cross just like in Day of the Diesels, but he's on form here. With Topham wanting a word, Thomas realises the worst. A punished James is reunited with The Smelly Kipper and lands into a trouble at float, mirroring a highlight from James to the Rescue. Arc this time provides the thrills, and it looks terrific.

Cranky gets his most caring scene ever before a plan is quickly forgotten. The crane is tasked with his strength to commit and is therefore threatened. Its a tense minute and will leave you on the edge of your seat. The climax takes place in the large landscape of... well, that would be telling. Big trouble arrives and the lives of three engines are at risk when one is simply not scared of things, until...

The action steps up a gear and gives Arc a lot to do, a lot. The end of it references a classic 90s episode before an engine is once again in threat. A move by a character, who treads boards early on in the film, becomes a saviour and quotes an ironic line from Shakespeare before a celebration is attended by a recent popular addition for a cameo. One mistake however involves Topham exclaiming two words when someone leaves, shoehorned in and out of character.

The farewell scene becomes a bittersweet moment and hits you in the centre, and it makes one character find an improvement in their-self, it fulfils them and it is heart warming. No end of special music video this time, instead we have Eggplant LF giving us a fast mix while delightfully, the voice cast are given the exposure they've needed for years, perhaps something you might have recalled in The Simpsons Movie.

There's a lot to look forward to in this credible instalment but really the special is about the actions made between Thomas, Percy and James which come full circle. Concerning new blood, Gator is the most prominent and acts as the big friendly giant in directing Percy through. While Marion is given beginning coverage before quietly dropping out until providing faith in the third act, Timothy is limited. The worst offender is Reg who is there for just a few lines.

However, minor quibbles aside, what makes Tale so absolute is the amount of heart that is in the story, the characters, the drama and the throwbacks to old, classic and new material. Blue Mountain succeeded in delivering those goods but Tale doubles it up incredibly. In terms of Arc Productions, it is probably the best ever animation to ever feature in a Thomas & Friends episode and it makes the story worthwhile. Many complex angles, originality and depth.

There are scenes which could well scare younger viewers but it does so in a good way as the whole hour challenges the un-confident to be assertive, and it works. One mystery is the sights of reptile footprints which do tease what's in store for the next endeavours on Sodor. This is the definitive start of a better life for the show and packs many surprises and heart. Its lovely, it really is the Tale of the Brave and its as if the film is saying "and we're back".

Tale of the Brave gets an...

9/10

Tale of the Brave: The Movie rolls into Vue cinemas across the UK from August 22nd to 28th. The DVD is released in the UK on September 1st, the US triple play Blu-ray on the 16th and in Australia and New Zealand on October 1st.

Thomas & Friends' 18th Season premieres on Channel 5 milkshake! in the UK on August 25th at 7:35am, with the episode, Old Reliable Edward.

'King of the Railway' Spoiler-Free Review: The Verdict

The good people at Hit Entertainment were generous enough to send Roll Along Thomas a copy of King of the Railway: The Movie DVD and allow a review of the film ahead of its cinematic and DVD releases.

While there's so much packed in it, a lot cannot be said here. This is a stark comparison to those many (who know who they are) who were nauseate enough to leak cryptic spoilers across the net following a Polish TV broadcast.

People vouching out to express their excitement even on the Twitter-sphere or on Facebook communities clearly were out of touch with Hit's policy and proved a wreckless disregard of spreading crucial information.

For more on this, please read The SiF Blog's article on why the nature of the fanbase must change.

Now that that's been said in a gut wrenching fashion, let's talk through the seventh feature-length special and the eighth movie overall in the franchise.

The film starts off with a pre-titles sequence in the same vein that Blue Mountain Mystery did, although this time, while it is shorter and less action-packed, its playful and distances itself away from a non-plot sequence to actually establishing what's to come further down the story, immediately taking pace into account rather early on.

What follows is a trek through Sodor type title sequence in the style of a map, lovingly crafted by the dynamic people at Arc Productions, all of whom immediately tease the viewer that so much is to come. This is coupled with the special's theme tune by Robert Hartshorne which is actually quoted in a key scene from Henry's Hero and is majestic enough to give you chills. Its a theme you may not be able to help but hum to.

Mark Moraghan, who lends some vitalised energy to the narration, then talks us through the early days of Sodor's history. This utilises the medieval aspects which is certainly intriguing, but none more so than the mention of a king called Godred. Faith comes to bite back in many ways. The Earl of Sodor's introduction is so comical that it lends perspective to the more authorial figures like The Fat Controller. Sir Robert's humour is used spaciously.

What follows just a few minutes later is Millie's introduction, where her persona is established to Thomas, then, she ends up becoming underused. While she is further explored in greater form in The Switch, it is actually The Steam Team that are used in equally sizeable roles to help drive parts of the plot through, something which has become a problem in previous specials.

The engines get in on the interplay to understand Sir Robert and the special's central newbie, Stephen. Stephen allows viewers to be educated on not only his and his railway's history, but also on the history of how real life railways developed from their inception to comparing to The Fat Controller's engines.

When a scene involving two diesels references the debate between vintage and modern engines, you know that it can be challenged in a future episode. In scenes with Sir Topham and his engines, his attitude is justified so rightly that he is more believable as a railway controller than ever before, something that the early series was able to achieve.

Its no secret that Jack makes a return to the franchise, but in a more, shall we say, proper tractor form. His change of appearance is mostly successful, partly due to the the latter, the way he is utilised in the script and the youthful voice given to him by someone long term fans will be able to recognise.

Spencer and Gordon get to match off against each other in several races, but the rematch is done so sparingly that Spencer is only there for the jealously and the humour. An end to one race may send repercussions of Happy Birthday, Sir! up peoples spines when some risky speeding almost leads to some peril.

Connor and Caitlin's offer to race the two pompous engines is sadly not taken on for full effect until a brief pickup at the end, but one that could leave potential for another outing.

The action shifts to the friendship of Thomas, Percy and James many times so much so that it dominates the plot as much as Stephen's quest to be really useful and Ulftsead Castle's construction. Their bickering and cheeky demeanors towards each other are put to the test in various ways that it harks back to the grounds of the first few series' characterisations, primarily Series One.

Upon finding his new job, trouble arrives for Stephen after the Troublesome Trucks' capers mark a welcome return. This leads to a Searching Everywhere sequence where even the underused Captain and another safety equipped character (who is given a line earlier in the story) play a part in the search alongside Connor and Caitlin et al.

By the time Stephen's trouble is resolved, taking a vital piece of a steam engine into account, it is all cheers and smiles with the grand opening of Ulfstead Castle. Cue the end of special music video. For those who listened to an early version of that song... well, that's the clue.

There is so much packed into King that you just can't help but take into arms and adore it. The strong characterisations, the greater use of characters, the suspense, the workings of railways. There is even some things for older fans that will leave you filled with smiles all round, in particular, references to past episodes. There is even a line of dialogue that puts the prolonged debate of a certain engine's type of function to rest and an explanation for Hiro appearing.

Despite some minor qualms, the story is strong enough that you are attached to embrace the richness of it, more so, Arc Productions' animation. Just don't trust low quality internet clips! There are sublime messages of working together, trusting one another, being sure of yourself, how to get the job done and old vs. new.

Andrew Brenner's pledge to take the series to more grounded territory and back to its roots is filled with promises in this solid special coupled with Rob Silverstri's fast paced direction and sharp angular visuals. It may well be as good as Hero of the Rails or Blue Mountain Mystery whatever's your poison, but King of the Railway stands on its own feet to offer things old, new and exciting.

King of the Railway gets an...

8/10

King of the Railway: The Movie arrives in Vue cinemas nationwide across the UK from August 23rd to September 1st, with its DVD to follow a day after on the 2nd.

The US will receive the DVD on September 17th followed by Australia on October 2nd.

Feature: Recap on Episode Twenty of Season Sixteen

Christmas Day 2012 closed many chapters in the present Thomas & Friends series.

Sharon Miller's writing tenure had ended, the show's repetitive formula cropped up for the last time and we bidded a fond farewell to the beloved animation of Nitrogen Studios.

Originally scheduled to be Season Sixteen's eighteenth show, The Christmas Tree Express was pushed back till the festive event. Though the US had seen it first on DVD, the day marked the debut UK and Australian televised showing.

It started with Rheneas contemplating to have the best Christmas tree ever. Toby is then made to take Rheneas to Misty Island to find one. But Toby is reluctant to be in Bash, Dash, Ferdinand and the island's surroundings.

The latter five played central roles while Thomas, Skarloey and Rusty delivered a few lines each. Merrick, Sir Handel, Peter Sam and Owen cameod along with Captain, Ol' Wheezy, Hee-Haw and Victor.

The episode finished with an overwhelming negative response, primarily criticising the long wait of one formulaic ten minute episode for the sake of a Christmas themed transmission.

A resurgence of repetition and Ferdinand's that's right! were also let downs. A major continuity error arose when it was realised that despite Toby's fright, he had been in Misty Island and the engines' company before in Toby and Bash.

Criticism continued with the return of The Shake Shake Bridge, Toby's personality drifting away and closing his eyes while travelling fast which was deemed a selfish and dangerous act.

Minor positives came about, mainly directed at Nitrogen's expansive CGI and having a different standard gauge engine interact with the narrow gauge, namely Toby who hadn't done so since a brief scene in 1998's Toby's Discovery.

Another highlight was a showcase for Ben Small who voiced four out of five of his known characters all in the same story. For whatever it seemed, long term fans knew that the end is only just the beginning...

TheTopHatts gives The Christmas Tree Express...

2/10

THOMAS & FRIENDS WILL RETURN IN

SEASON SEVENTEEN

FALL 2013

For a full list of scheduling, visit the Dieselworks Turntable Roundhouse on the right hand sidebar for more details.

WATCH 'THE CHRISTMAS TREE EXPRESS' ON YOUTUBE

Thanks to Thomas & Friends Wikia for information.

What did you think of this episode? Send your reaction in the comments section just under this post for your verdict.

Feature: 'Blue Mountain Mystery: The Movie' Review

Blue Mountain Mystery: The Movie rolled into the UK's Vue cinemas during the weekend of September 1st 2012 and has just been released on DVD.

After the unanimous disappointment of the Fifteenth Series, the slight resurgence of interest in Day of the Diesels and the promises held in Season Sixteen, would we ever see a new beginning for Thomas & Friends?

The few who were given the many chances to see it early in Australasian and United States theatres, the Thomas fanbase would be left pondering, Is it a good?, Was it better than the last one?, Is it a promising future for Thomas?

The individuals who did see it would come out in open arms afterwards to appreciate the new film product. But were they right to do that? Here, Roll Along Thomas answers those questions with the Blue Mountain Mystery review.

WARNING:

THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS.

IF YOU DON'T WANT TO BE SPOILED,

LOOK AWAY NOW.

The seventh film in the series (counting Thomas and the Magic Railroad) starts off rather differently with a pre-credits sequence. It sees the Narrow Gauge Engines hard at work at the Blue Mountain Quarry. Already, this interests the viewer with the introduction of the new location, the many activities happening and the impressive but even more snazzy visuals from the much loved Nitrogen Studios, who sadly depart animation duties in this story.

We get more introductions with the appearances of Owen and Merrick working friendly with the little 'uns. Then suddenly we find Paxton speaking for the first time. This already fills us with the many promises that this film would eventually deliver. Paxton gains an important role by serving as a worrisome antagonist which would be elaborated further on into the story.

With the small presence of Sharon Miller's usual writing structure, this is soon banished rather quickly and would only crop up a few times later on. Reminiscent of a typical James Bond film, this moves to a thrilling but suspenseful action sequence, which has nothing to do with the story. A slight breath of fresh air. Rheneas finds himself in trouble owing to parts of the substituted Blondin' Bridge tumbled down to the ground. 

The line of the upper terrace immediately educates a young child to be tought a few words, this is a good sign. While a warning signal is swiftly held up by a worker, the viewer would notice that the flag is green, signalling the engine to go. While at first this may seem wrong, it is the right thing to do when you think about it.

If you are involved in an emergency, you have to act fast with no time to lose. So long as the lifeform in danger gets an explanation, the person responsible for the act knows what he or she is doing. Rheneas struggles to get past the bridge but manages to clear the scene as it falls to pieces. Robert Hartshorne provides a believeably stressful soundtrack during the action which makes you either want to hold onto your seat or put your hands on your mouth.

The causality kick starts a memory re-emerging from the fans' mind of a previous danger scene occuring from an episode of the Classic Series which also teaches you the actions and capabilities that you should take. Some have compared the tidbit to the Fifth Series. A shot of Rheneas going down a slope at one point convinced me that this was a live-action depiction. Top marks to Nitrogen on that brief image.

After the success of Rheneas escape, we get moments of humour from Paxton who is near buried in the heap of rubble. Confused and bewildered, the diesel is hit by a stone and mutters, Ow... Steven Kynman's calm tone and comic timing gives the message for some laughter to respond. We are treated to a minute long title sequence where the animation moves to the basics of sharp cartoon artworks. It, in a way, tells you to sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

The plot then starts properly with leaves hanging from a tree opening a camera pan down to Thomas, Annie and Clarabel swimmingly having fun chattering about in the beautiful countryside, complete with the country atmosphere of a forest and some cows, grazing. The wonderful opening shot of the tree looks almost life like and is the start of a big send-off for the Nitrogen animators. The scene truly is, enchanting.

Annie and Clarabel speak for the first time since the Eleventh Series and are voiced by the ever reliable, Teresa Gallagher who gives the insufferable aids to Thomas smooth vocals and well spoken posh accents which is just fitting. The fun stops there as we are given a lesson on the railways; Slow down! The signal is red, warns Clarabel. I always stop at a red signal, replies Thomas. Only because we tell you to!, Annie jokes.

The importance of the message is none to say the least, a welcome return from the series' early days and a nod to the hard working railway people who know all about the life of trains. It is also where Blue Mountain's script editor, now head writer, Andrew Brenner's writing comes into place. Winston appears as a jester to The Fat Controller who are both used in an embarassing but comedic way. A better introduction to the car would have been ideal.

During Topham's notice about the disastrous day at the quarry, he notes to Thomas that he must take his passengers to their destinations first before proceeding to replace Paxton at Blue Mountain. It is something we haven't heard for a long time but is nonetheless a strict piece of talk from a railway controller. Paxton gains a short scene with Emily afterwards, improving his screen time.

A few moments of repitition crop up with the narrow gauge engines greeting Thomas. In a surprise turn-around since The Great Discovery, a musical montage of the Blue Mountain Quarry song is presented. Though not as the actual music video, a gathering of working hard scenes fill in the void and somehow fits perfectly with the story, complete with industrial sound effects. Hartshorne even creates a soundtrack version straight after the montage ends.

Moving onto the voices. Dissatisfaction arose when Sir Handel utilized a squeaky voice but after watching this film twice, I feel that it suits his character. He used to be a devious little steamer and with age has matured into a wiser engine, but at the same time, still maintains some of his youth. Skarloey's age is represented by a deep Welsh sound while Rheneas, Peter Sam and Rusty recieve the perfect mix of young, old and cheerful.

Owen gets a tough sound, so as if to say that, he knows what he is doing and he is strong. Merrick and Winston's somehow cheeky personalities share almost the same voice, but with one mature and the other a bothersome youngster who is a trainee at his job. It's just a shame that the two don't add much to the story and are purely there for the basis of humour. But the voice actors I will say, know what they are doing.

Perhaps the most worthy voice added to the cast is Michael Legge as Luke. Michael donates his Irish background to give young Luke a vulnerable but heriocally brave and smooth vocals. The portrayal certainly matches with his character and adds more hints of different cultures living on Sodor. Back to the film, Luke is seen for the first time coming out of hiding.

This leads to a helpful game of hide-and-seek with the narrow gaugers trying desperately hard to hide Luke fast and away from Thomas. It is not exactly made clear as to why the engines wouldn't trust their friend Thomas to find out an eventually undisclosed secret that was tucked away a long time ago and in some respects may seem slightly out of character from the first four narrow gaugers.

The secret of Luke's actions adds some drama and keeps the viewer engaged as you want to know what will happen to Luke and you want to care for him but at the same time, you want to care for Thomas as he's responsible to keep schtum. It is a matter that goes on in life. What do you do when you find out someone's secret? Should you tell anyone? Should you not? You must care for the victim no matter at what cost it makes.

Thomas asks his buds at Tidmouth Sheds, What do you all think is the worst thing an engine could do? This is where the old days of the show return for three great glimpses of nostalgia from arguably some of the best episodes in the program's history. These are re-imagined with Nitrogen's CGI and fulfills Greg Tiernan's ambition to re-create older tales for present day. It is nothing but a real crowd pleaser for the people who grew up with the olden days.

Despite some inconsistencies in visual differences, it doesn't really matter. We get some powerful references to the show's past and we loved those moments. The Sad Story of Henry is probably the superior out of the three. We see a chief of an island punishing one of his engines in a brutal way. Bricking him up in a tunnel, which is something of a worse nightmare or maybe a form of claustrophobia. It can relate to the mountain mystery and its outcome.

A near accident between Skarloey and Rocky is prevented by Thomas which ultimately persuades Luke to believe in him. Skarloey delcares, You saved me from losing my cab. The line makes you wonder what would've happend to Skarloey's driver and fireman. An injured crew or possible fatalities could've arised if no warning was called out. 

To take matters in your own hands to save some lives is an important factor of safety and this is shown in a Thomas & Friends episode! Brenner's research harkens back to 80s and 90s Thomas. Thomas reminds Luke that he steamed past a danger sign, and fell into a mine. Joking, and I'm still here!. Perfect mix of comedy and nostalgia.

Paxton returns in our sights for another role, listening in on Luke's very bad secret. The mystery unravels a backdrop for the then identified Victor and sounds like something that Miller may have saved since his inception in Hero of the Rails, a good idea. Though the shocking image of an engine landing in the sea may scare some kids. they would need to wait for a plausible explanation.

Victor breaks new ground for the show as a different language is heard, Spanish. Not only are the little bits of foreign dialogue surprising to hear, the basic sentences can teach children a new language. I was gutted that Matt Wilkinson did not voice Victor for this special. He gave Victor such an ideal sound but alas is replaced by the US' David Bedella. Though disappointing, you don't really notice this change and David actually does well to mimic the Cuban.

While on his branch line (hooray!), Thomas runs past a red signal but this time realizes his mistake, and reverses. This shows that Thomas' character is slowly returning and is once more a regulation that all drivers or in this case steam engines refer to in real life. Perhaps a reference to Toby Feels Left Out, Toby helps the true blue by pulling Annie and Clarabel to work.

The three have a good working relationship as evident by the chatter and shows that they have known each other for so long. Entering the Dieselworks to find the yellow engine, a scrapped Marklin engine is seen in a panning shot. Those who are clever trainspotters will have noticed this engine in parts of the First Series. It is another easter egg that Tiernan added for the more mature fanbase.

Thomas hears Paxton divulging Luke's secret to Diesel. This is the part where Diesel reverts back to his devious Season Two character instead of his Season Six portrayal. It is a joy to hear what trickery Diesel has up his cab but the fact that Hartshorne's slow and evil music cue signals back to the early days of the character, is just a pleasing win.

However, because of Thomas' thorough search for the yellow engine, this is where the film starts to lose pace. Upon leaving the quarry, our little engine asks four of his friends to give him the answer which goes on for too long. He then questions it to Edward, then Cranky in a lengthy but humorous scene at the Docks and a has a brief exchange with James. Though relevant, pace is lost up until the plot goes back on track with a discovery at the Steamworks.

In a very sombre interaction with Victor, the Cuban locomotive reveals to Thomas the true story about himself, the yellow engine and what occured on that fateful day. We get a simple explanation that the wheel chains snapping off Victor were the reasoning behind the horrifying fall at the Docks, and so, Luke's supposed act of physical contact is out of the game. Victor's perspective is played so well and adds more drama, leading to the film's final act.

Later, Thomas encounters Diesel at a junction being provoked at by The Fat Controller to take a broken down Mavis away. Diesel's determination to label Luke a baddie is rich coming from the devious oiler. Here combined with Hartshorne's reprise of his theme makes you feel that the Diesel we used to know is back and more evil than ever. The resurgence of the character's original personality really fits in with the feel that this story takes on.

After seeing Thomas emerging from hiding, Paxton's confusion is displayed to such an extent that you feel sorry for him to decide, what are you going to do when your stuck in the middle?. His frustration wracks his mind when he has to choose the side of good or bad. Thomas blurts out to the narrow gauge engines that he spoke to Victor about the very matter, leaving them to reject Thomas in anger.

The sign of neglection is a thing that goes on in life and normally would affect friendships, relationships and also families. Its a strong matter. But relating to this and this is noticeable, when you base stuff in real life for adaptations like this, they tend to be successful to audiences when they react to it, thoughtfully but in a good way and the move that this product takes is well thought out and uses the major participants strongly to develop characterisations.

Now I have been hearing from various fans who have argued that the next procedure is silly, but, it almost isn't. To save his dying friendship with Luke, Thomas elects to go up the incline with the help of Rocky and Owen. The sheer lunacy that is realised when Thomas staggers around the narrow gauge tracks has a reason. Thomas is determined not to lose a friend and will take any risk for an engine or indeed engines to believe in him.

Unable to stop, Thomas bursts through the buffers and dangles on the end of the cliff tops. The expressions that the engines show combined with the sudden pause of music and the cries for Help! had me on the edge of my seat. Has Thomas just made the biggest mistake of his life? Yes, and no. He took a risk and ultimately needs saving himself. The orchestration adds heroism, especially when Luke pulls him to safety. Its a passable dramatic sequence.

I will admit however that I didn't like the fast trail down Owen. Though gripping, I would have believed it more if this was tried in the model era of the show. I'm not saying I hate the animation, I absolutely adore it 100%. But I just wasn't sure if this was believable enough, writing wise. The whole thing is finished quickly luckily and landing on the deck, Luke and Thomas are safe. Look out for a nod to the models.

Upon trying unsuccessfully to brainwash Luke and Paxton about Thomas, Paxton re-enters the quarry with Victor. Resolving the situation, Victor forgives Luke and the two are the best of friends. It is a touching scene and is helped by the performances of Legge and Bedella. And so, the film ends and fades to black... almost. Sam Blewitt returns to sing the Blue Mountain Mystery song, now a popular contender for the best of the modern Thomas songs.

Half way through, the music video breaks to provide a filler scene as to what happened days after the events. The relationship between Victor and Luke is explained that they are close in contact with both of them together at the Steamworks. In a nod to Victor's past and as a culmination of a running gag, Rheneas emerges as the yellow engine and is finally given his repaint.

The scene is merely meant to be an amusing joke and doesn't mean that Rheneas will remain like this forever. Even so as Blue Mountain is set before the events of Season Sixteen. Returning to the song, sombre tones are played out to the music perhaps signalling the tearful farewell to Nitrogen Studios and their wonderful CGI. This is evident by the use of a reprise of Thomas going over the camera to a fade in of their logo. It made me sad.

I speak for all of the fans and followers of the show and their work to say that I am sorry to see them go, but their swansong went out on a high note. Arc Productions certainly have a hard act to follow.

Blue Mountain Mystery lived up to its hype, served many surprises and has almost the right ingredients to making a Thomas & Friends production. The return of popular characters, the greater focus on personalities, the back story, the research, the education it gives, the nods to the past, the nods to the The Railway Series, and so on.

The film truly is a near return to form of our beloved program and from the little nuggets of information I have been informed about the next Series Seventeen, and with the professional Andrew Brenner at the helm, I truly believe that the little engine and his friends are coming home, to a much better place.

TheTopHatts gives the Blue Mountain Mystery an...

8/10

THOMAS & FRIENDS WILL RETURN
IN
SEASON SEVENTEEN
FALL 2013