But first, An apparently compulsory disclaimer that has to say something along the lines of the content of this post being the opinions of the author and of no other third party, as well as ensuring all that I do not represent the entire fanbase. All images used are done so under the fair use rule and no profit is made from this post (to my knowledge anyway- Google probably will from ads or something... but I digress.)
So, onto the episode at hand. Since HiT entertainment took over the series, many characters have, it has been felt, been butchered as the series' progressed, Toby being one of these characters. He has transformed from a wise, gentle tram engine who had experienced a lot and was looked up to by his friends, to a cowering, timid shadow of his former self, afraid to even turn wheel in a wood.
When I first read the synopsis for today's broadcast, I was sceptical to say the least. Since Brenner and his new team took on the mantle, the writing has improved ten-fold; there are obvious exceptions but the general quality is vastly improved. But to hear that Toby was nervous of passing through the gantry didn't feel right. Toby will have seen signals throughout his life. They are always there on Sodor; have been in the past and forever will be - they are essential.
That said, we also found out that Knapford Station had received a redesign. The gantry was a new addition to this set, so perhaps (I thought) that would play a part to the story. After all, Toby is old, and as you age, you tend to get more cautious, especially to something unfamiliar.
I was, therefore, somewhat disappointed to have the episode throw us in without explanation. A simple small edit to the script would have put Toby in fine character I feel, whilst not losing the structure of the episode:
"Recently, Knapford Station had undergone some important track work, and a new signal gantry towered above the line. This arrangement was new to Toby, and he found himself getting confused by the changes."
The episode could continue as normal there-onwards. The context is a little different, but it doesn't maintain the 'cowering old codger' persona Toby has adopted.
However, we have what we have. And, despite all this, I found the episode was quite enjoyable. Arc's animation is, as always, sublime, and they've evidently done their research on signals (although I'm unsure about the 'distant' signals, which always seem to be set at danger... These are designed to tell engines what the next signal is set at - an advanced warning per say.) I would like to point out something though.
"It's the signal directly above your line..."
Can you spot the problem? The first image, there are two lines (or three if you include the siding off-screen), but numerous signal posts on the gantry - three above Toby's line itself. In the second one, there is not a single post above Toby's line.
I must confess I like James' arrogance at the end of this episode, and pushing Toby forwards believing the tram has missed his signal. His apology was quite nice - he obviously doesn't like admitting he's wrong, let alone apologising when he does.
It's not like The Fat Controller, meanwhile, to disregard safety in such a way. A quick glance up at the gantry himself and he would have seen Toby was right, rather than disregarding Toby as some doddery old fool as he seemingly does. (I did, however, smile at the fact it gave his... bodyguard... a chance to whisper a line.) His 'You are a really useful engine' line felt forced though. I wouldn't say it is 'useful' to not go past a signal at danger. Perhaps 'observant' is the word that he should have used?
Now on to the big bit.
Henrietta.
When we first heard she was to receive a face, there was uproar; outrage! How could this character, who has gone throughout the TV Series without a face, be suddenly receiving one. I, like so many, wasn't entirely won over. And I admit, the fact she has suddenly been dropped in without any explanation is a little confusing - surely small children who have seen previous series will be confused by this sudden change?
But after today's episode, I can say it was a good choice to make on the production team's part. Thomas has Annie and Clarabel, whom have begun interacting with one another more these days. Henrietta has played a crucial role in this episode in being Toby's reassurance. I'm sure that, in future, she'll continue to play a vital role with the tram engine.
Overall, it's a good episode. Obviously not great, but far from terrible. It showed off the new Knapford layout in all it's glory, and gave Toby a stronger role compared to those he's had previously. I'm hopeful that, from this episode onwards, Toby's persona will be refined and brought back to what it once was.
Miscellaneous
- Did anyone else get fed up of 'The NUMBER SEVEN BROWN TRAM ENGINE" being emphasised?
- Was that Ferdinand? (Uh oh...)
- The worker with the flags to replace the signal - nice touch. Pretty much what they would do. Shame he has no high-visibility jacket if we're going down the safety route so strictly...
And finally....
Exactly where did Gordon come from at speed with the express?
TRI
