It goes without saying that Thomas the Tank Engine became a watershed for children's TV, and for good reason: the model-based production design with Ringo Starr's iconic narration made it an instant hit. One of The Beatles narrating Thomas? What was there NOT to love about that combo? The direction was sharp, beautiful and brimming with vibrant colours and British vibes that other shows would become green with envy over. And to think that the show is STILL getting watched to this day by newcomers everywhere.
It goes without saying that the 1980s and 1990s eras for Thomas & Friends are easily considered by many longtime fans to be the best of the lot, myself included. Sure we've gotten older and our views have changed on many things, but for so many of us this show was a wholesome encapsulation of innocence, friendship and everything train-related that it's no wonder Thomas became a global phenomenon akin to a Disney franchise, or even The Muppets. In fact I'd have to describe the 80s and 90s eras of Thomas & Friends as simply this: wholesome.
Sure the show's had MANY ups and downs like any long lasting television series, but the good parts are still damn good and the craftsmanship isn't something you see a heck of a lot these days, and the show is a reminder of the beauty of model-based filmmaking.
For Thomas & Friends, from the 80s through to the 90s, this show is an absolute treasure. Just be careful of the later stuff. 4/5 stars.
It goes without saying that the 1980s and 1990s eras for Thomas & Friends are easily considered by many longtime fans to be the best of the lot, myself included. Sure we've gotten older and our views have changed on many things, but for so many of us this show was a wholesome encapsulation of innocence, friendship and everything train-related that it's no wonder Thomas became a global phenomenon akin to a Disney franchise, or even The Muppets. In fact I'd have to describe the 80s and 90s eras of Thomas & Friends as simply this: wholesome.
Sure the show's had MANY ups and downs like any long lasting television series, but the good parts are still damn good and the craftsmanship isn't something you see a heck of a lot these days, and the show is a reminder of the beauty of model-based filmmaking.
For Thomas & Friends, from the 80s through to the 90s, this show is an absolute treasure. Just be careful of the later stuff. 4/5 stars.