Shining Time Station Thomas And The Magic Railroad
Introduction
In 2000, "Thomas and the Magic Railroad" was released, a movie that combined the beloved characters of "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Shining Time Station." This film was a groundbreaking moment in the history of the franchise and became a favorite of many children and adults alike. In this article, we will explore the story behind "Shining Time Station Thomas And The Magic Railroad," its history, its characters, and its impact on the world of Thomas the Tank Engine.
History
The history of "Thomas and the Magic Railroad" goes back to the late 1980s when Britt Allcroft, the creator of the "Thomas the Tank Engine" TV series, had the idea to make a feature-length film that would expand the world of Thomas and his friends. Allcroft teamed up with producer Phil Fehrle and writer/producer David Mitton to develop the project.
It was initially envisioned as a live-action film, but after several iterations, it evolved into a movie that blended live-action and animation. The film was shot in Canada, with the live-action scenes filmed in Toronto and the special effects and animation done in Vancouver.
Characters
"Thomas and the Magic Railroad" featured an ensemble cast of characters from "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Shining Time Station." The film was set in the fictional town of Shining Time, and the story revolved around a young girl named Lily, who travels to the town to visit her grandfather, Mr. Conductor.
The cast included Thomas the Tank Engine, Gordon the Big Engine, James the Red Engine, Percy the Small Engine, and several other locomotives. The human characters included Peter Fonda as Burnett Stone, Alec Baldwin as Mr. Conductor, and Mara Wilson as Lily.
Impact
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, "Thomas and the Magic Railroad" was a commercial success, grossing over $19 million worldwide. The film has since become a cult classic among fans of "Thomas the Tank Engine" and "Shining Time Station."
The movie also marked the end of an era for "Thomas the Tank Engine." It was the last project to feature the original voice cast, as well as the last to be produced by Allcroft. The franchise would later be sold to HIT Entertainment and undergo significant changes.
Conclusion
"Shining Time Station Thomas And The Magic Railroad" was a unique and ambitious project that brought together two beloved franchises. It may not have been a critical darling, but it has stood the test of time and remains a favorite of many fans. As the franchise continues to evolve, it's worth revisiting this moment in its history and appreciating the creativity and vision that went into making it a reality.
