Here is the section for Season 18 of Thomas & Friends coming in 2014. Place episode suggestions, episode reviews and what classic series characters you want to see making a return to Season 18.
I'd like to see Donald and Douglas in the new season 8).
I'd put money on Oliver coming back personally...
Maybe we will get 3-4 returning characters a series....
That's what I was thinking, with Brenner at the helm I'd say Donald Douglas, Oliver, & BoCo if we get four.
Don't forget about the off-rail characters!
Brenner reintroduced Duck, Harvey, Bill and Ben, but he did also bring back Jack as well.
I think if anyone on the road is to return it ought to be Terrence the Tractor(whose Bachmann model looks terrific), or perhaps Alfie to join Jack?
There was a picture of some wooden railway items in prototype stages that showed Bulstrode with a CG-looking face.. kind of doubt he'll return though.
My bet for engines is that Arthur will make a return at some point in the future, seeing how his line is already rendered and all, or perhaps we'll be totally surprised. Never know!
I'd too like to see the return of ff road characters, like Terrance.
Quote from: Chaz on November 27, 2013, 01:04:21 AM
If I could see anyone returning anytime soon, I can see the following (not all in one season):
Terence - I whole heartedly agree on Terence making a comeback. I can see him being one of those old nostalgic characters who comes out of nowhere to make older fans happy, much like Duck was.
Trevor - They have his CGI model finished but haven't really given him a proper role, besides the brief cameo in season 15 and the intro on the show.
Donald and Douglas - Seeing as how Duck and Bill and Ben are in the show, I feel these two are almost inevitable if they want to bring back more engines from the classic era. Other ones I'd feel are out of the question just due to a larger lack of recent appearances (like BoCo) or even if one like Oliver because it wouldn't make sense to avoid the Scottish twins 9 and 10, yet jump right into 11.
Duncan - I can see the show going on without Freddie, Mighty Mac, and even Duke but they really can't keep doing narrow gauge without Duncan since he is very iconic to the NG railway. Plus mentioning him in Don't Bother Victor like he was there was a tease. ::) I'm almost positive he'll make a comeback at some point.
Murdoch - Murdoch remained fairly iconic in the season 7 era and made a few brief appearances throughout the model era following that. I'd be interested in seeing how that would turn out.
Arthur - See Murdoch.
Molly - Out of all the characters who were introduced in seasons 9-12, Molly is the only one I can see coming back. Despite lack of appearances, (and lack of personality, IMO) Molly was fairly iconic to the show before the switch to CGI, which could be due to her design (particularly color as you would find her in ads/websites with Thomas, Percy, James, and her in them).
What about Oliver and Toad?
What about Story Title ideas? what do we think should make good stories for Season 18?
here are some of my ideas:
Daredevil Duncan: Duncan likes to rock and roll and race fast on bumpy track which can often lead to trouble, but he soon learns there is a time and place for everything when he tries to stop a train of runaway trucks.
Sprang a Leak: Diesel teases Thomas after Thomas' siderods snap and punctured his water tank during an early morning commute, but the tables are soon turned against Diesel when his fuel tank leaks.
The Stephen Chief (based on Walt Disney's Peter Pan): when the pantomime 'Peter Pan' comes to the town hall, Bridget Hatt is excited, but her brother Stephen has one thing stopping him from going to see it, his phobia of red Indians because of a somewhat grizzly scene in the play. So he must overcome his phobia to take Bridget to see the play which is not easy when Bash, Dash and Ferdinand use his phobia as an advantage for mischief which could result in a forest fire on Misty Island.
Duck and diesel part 2: diesel remembers his first brush-up with Duck years ago and wants to cause more trouble with him again
Donald, Douglas, and trouble: Donald and Douglas have to work alone for a few months to work on Duck and Edward's branchlines but their separation upsets a precious balence that needs to be preserved
Quote from: seanrail on November 27, 2013, 03:42:25 AM
What about Oliver and Toad?
Quote from: Chaz on November 27, 2013, 01:04:21 AM
Donald and Douglas - Seeing as how Duck and Bill and Ben are in the show, I feel these two are almost inevitable if they want to bring back more engines from the classic era. Other ones I'd feel are out of the question just due to a larger lack of recent appearances (like BoCo) or even if one like Oliver because it wouldn't make sense to avoid the Scottish twins 9 and 10, yet jump right into 11.
I'm hoping an engine like Duke returns, because now that we have an Earl (Sir Robert Norramby), who would be the new/current grace that Duke knew back in the day, maybe (or more rather if they made a story like that, I'd like to see how they'd handle that).
I definitely agree with the other characters (Donald, Douglas, Oliver, Toad, Terence, Trevor, Duncan, Murdoch, Arthur, and BoCo) that should return sometime. Although I don't believe they'll all return simultaneously, they'll return eventually for sure, with the new team that brought back Duck, Harvey, Bill and Ben in the show.
I'm hoping some of the female characters like Madge and Molly return and/or characters like Rosie and Mavis have starring roles to themselves...
Quote from: Cirkit:) on November 21, 2013, 07:45:12 PM
Don't forget about the off-rail characters!
Brenner reintroduced Duck, Harvey, Bill and Ben, but he did also bring back Jack as well.
I think if anyone on the road is to return it ought to be Terrence the Tractor(whose Bachmann model looks terrific), or perhaps Alfie to join Jack?
There was a picture of some wooden railway items in prototype stages that showed Bulstrode with a CG-looking face.. kind of doubt he'll return though.
My bet for engines is that Arthur will make a return at some point in the future, seeing how his line is already rendered and all, or perhaps we'll be totally surprised. Never know!
Ned?
Cover for the new movie suggests this......
It is also confirmed that the blue tank engine in the background of some books based on the special 'Tale of the Brave' is name Timothy.
http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Timothy (to see a rough sketch of him in TnP form)
Now it's not confirmed just yet, but from what I could gather from the vague looking pic from a children's book (http://www.amazon.com/Tale-Brave-Thomas-Friends-Golden/dp/0385379153), he might be based off of this basis (very first pic on the site): http://www.internationalsteam.co.uk/articulateds/articulated02.htm
Any thoughts on that other engine? The Columbian engine.
Right?
Does he have a name yet?
Idk..... Just Timothy is confirmed.
I can't tell if that's a steam engine or a diesel, if it steam then that's an odd shape.
It is steam.... checked the cover.
(http://smythstoys.static.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/product_images/134381_L.jpg)
Looks like Stepney is returning!!!
Quote from: Fergusfan17 on January 04, 2014, 12:24:36 PM
(http://smythstoys.static.s3-website-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/product_images/134381_L.jpg)
Looks like Stepney is returning!!!
the article from the link http://rollalongthomas.blogspot.com/2014/01/stepney-returns-to-die-cast-with-take-n.html (http://rollalongthomas.blogspot.com/2014/01/stepney-returns-to-die-cast-with-take-n.html) validates that fact as it says it comes with a CGI style face.
Just because Take-n-Play is doing Stepney doesn't automatically mean that he is going to return. We barely know anything about this new season as it is. Not saying it's impossible, but I wouldn't count my eggs until they hatch on this one. Especially since that range is doing a lot of random additions as it is like Class 40 and the Big City Engine.
Links for both:
http://www.abgee.co.uk/productv3.aspx?ProdCode=900%20BCW99
http://www.abgee.co.uk/productv3.aspx?ProdCode=900%20BCW98
So Take-n-Play is making The Diesel and the Big City Engine? That's interesting.
Stepney I doubt would return just yet; he did have a cgi face in series 12 don't forget.
Wasn't aware engines like Class 40 were being made again. I have high hopes for Stepney returning and with this news now my hopes for the series itself are going even higher! Things are really looking up.
Stepney looks great so far.
After seeing the new trailer I changed my thoughts on who is coming out soon slightly.
If I could see anyone returning anytime soon, I can see the following (not all in one season):
Terence - I whole heartedly agree on Terence making a comeback. I can see him being one of those old nostalgic characters who comes out of nowhere to make older fans happy, much like Duck was.
Trevor - They have his CGI model finished but haven't really given him a proper role, besides the brief cameo in season 15 and the intro on the show.
Donald and Douglas - They brought Duck, Bill, Ben, and now Oliver back onto the show. These two are bound to show up sooner or later.
Duncan - I can see the show going on without Freddie, Mighty Mac, and even Duke but they really can't keep doing narrow gauge without Duncan since he is very iconic to the NG railway. Plus mentioning him in Don't Bother Victor like he was there was a tease. ::) I'm almost positive he'll make a comeback at some point.
Stepney - Okay guys you got me on this one. :P His model was sent from Drayton manor along with Harvey, plus his recent TNP model shows a new face almost feels like another inevitable return we will see in the show soon. Especially with all of the other classic returns we've witnessed recently.
Murdoch - Murdoch remained fairly iconic in the season 7 era and made a few brief appearances throughout the model era following that. I'd be interested in seeing how that would turn out.
Arthur - Somewhere along the same lines as Murdoch. The only difference is that Arthur has made more appearances and roles than Murdoch has, along with being one of the few characters from season 7 to have some kind of development.
I'd prefer it if they had the oldies (like Donald and Douglas, Terence, BoCo, Duncan, Duke, etc.) return first since everyone wants those characters to return, after seeing Duck, Harvey, and Bill and Ben return! This ought to be interesting for sure!! :P
As of Tonight which is 1-10-2014 I could honestly see Stanley coming back or don't tell me... You forgot About Stanley. Anyways I can see him coming back he has been used as a background train what do you guys think. I at least think he is going to make a small speaking part.
Take-N-Play is making Big City Engine...?
Well, maybe this means the lost episode "Gordon Goes Foreign" may not be lost after all...?
To add to the Oliver hype, Take n play is also doing Toad now it looks like:
http://service.mattel.com/us/productDetail.aspx?prodno=BCW91&siteid=27
It looks like they're bringing back as many older characters as they are making new ones. Hopefully we will see how Oliver and Toad will turn out by full appearance by the time season 18 airs. Does anyone know exactly when we should expect episodes by?
I believe it'll be about Autumn (September/October) time, after TOTB has been released; I believe this is to combat the continuity mismatch experience with the recent series-special releases.
Time will tell.
Quote from: Chaz on January 12, 2014, 09:35:41 PM
To add to the Oliver hype, Take n play is also doing Toad now it looks like:
http://service.mattel.com/us/productDetail.aspx?prodno=BCW91&siteid=27
It looks like they're bringing back as many older characters as they are making new ones. Hopefully we will see how Oliver and Toad will turn out by full appearance by the time season 18 airs. Does anyone know exactly when we should expect episodes by?
Actually it seems that we may get them THIS June!
Sorry, couldn't fine the link, but a television programmer released a schedule. And season 18 was on it!...... ?
A quick Google search lead me to this: http://scratchpad.wikia.com/wiki/Thomas_%26_Friends_-_Season_18
I don't know that the information is true, but I sure hope it is! :P
Personally, I wouldn't trust Scratchpad Wikia. A lot of it seems to be fan-fiction stuff/Thomas and Friends parodies...
So blatantly fake; some of those episode titles are just so painstakingly poor and/or modifications of previous series titles.
Shame
Shame on whoever thought those up... :P
If it is true then Stepney is coming back! Surprised D&D weren't mentioned though if someone made this entire thing up.
Quote from: PasqualeCS96 on January 15, 2014, 12:47:31 PM
If it is true then Stepney is coming back! Surprised D&D weren't mentioned though.
Pretty sure the titles on the
scratch wikia site are fake. That site is usually filled with speculation from fans. Don't believe me, look at their Bachmann page:
http://scratchpad.wikia.com/wiki/Bachmann
I have extra episode suggestions:
The Missing Snowplough:
It is winter on the Island of Sodor and Thomas has lost his snow plough again and Sir Topham Hatt tells Thomas he cannot go out without it, but he then ignores him when he departs from Tidmouth Sheds without it. Thomas's first job for the day is to collect a train of tar wagons to bring to workmen who have run out. It is whilst he is pulling a train of tar wagons that he comes across a huge snowdrift. Thomas then tries to put on his brakes, but they fail and he then collides with the snow drift and gets stuck. His driver and fireman then go for help and Rocky is then brought by Edward to pull him out. Once Thomas is freed from the snow drift, he continues on with the tar wagons which he then delivers to the workmen who are repairing the road. Thomas is then scolded by Sir Topham Hatt for ignoring him, but is then forgiven when he is congratulated for delivering the tar wagons on time.
James And The Faulty Brakes
James is asked by Sir Topham Hatt to pull a line of flatbeds and then notices that the signal in front of him has just turned to red and then notices that Diesel has stopped in front of him pulling a train of tar wagons, James then tries to put on his brakes but it fails and he then hits the tar wagons which causes him to get covered in tar. Thomas is informed of James's accident and is ordered to get Rocky who helps clear away the tar wagons and then puts James on the rails again. When this is done, Thomas then shunts James back to the water tower so that he can be cleaned. Thomas is then rewarded with the chance to pull the royal train the next time it comes to Sodor.
The Queen Returns
After Thomas has been rewarded for helping James, the engines are then informed that the queen is returning to Sodor for a visit. The engines are then wondering who gets to pull the train, but it has been shown that Thomas is the one who was rewarded with the job which causes the other engines to become jealous and then start ignoring him. The queen then arrives and Thomas takes the royal train from Kellsthorpe station all the way to Knapford in order to show her the island once again from the last time that she was there.
James Goes Blue
James has been misbehaving once too many times and Sir Topham Hatt then orders him to go the Steamworks to be painted blue. This horrifies James and he then tries to get out of it, but he is then forced to go by being pushed there by Duck who finds it most difficult as James's brakes are hard on. Duck then has no choice but to couple up to James and then push him to the Steamworks where Victor and Kevin are waiting for him to arrive. It is here that James tries once again to get out of being painted blue, but fails yet again as Gordon, Henry and Duck block his way. James then groans and closes his eyes as the painter then paints him in his new blue livery. James then opens his eyes and he is horrified to be seen like that and refuses to do his work and moans about being painted blue. He then demands to be painted red again, which results in him being ignored as he refuses to accept his punishment and he is then forced to work for the rest of the day in his blue livery.
What are your opinions/comments on these episode suggestions?
The missing snow plough I'm not sure because Thomas promises to wear his snow plough at all times now as mention in No Snow For Thomas, but the other three look like pretty good story candidates.
I would personally like to see an episode that takes place on Edward's branchline, but I liked the ideas JlK2707
I would like to see a story including Stephen and Bridget Hatt .
New Thomas DVD from Walmart is showing some episodes for Season 18.
See link below.
http://rollalongthomas.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/troubleonthetracks-walmart-usdvd.html (http://rollalongthomas.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/troubleonthetracks-walmart-usdvd.html)
Well.. looks like we're getting CULDEE as a returning character this season. A new Take-n-Play promo found on Youtube shows him with a CGI face and body on the corner.....
Yippee?
This season is such a mystery, I do not know what to think of it! Even season 17 gave us more hints before it was released than this season.
At the moment I tend to doubt Culdee appearing; I reckon that render was Simply to keep the product promo consistent with all the other releases in the range; similar happened to Stepney I think.
I doubt Culdee will actually be in the show. As awesome as that would be I feel it's the same deal for Class 40 and big city engine. Just models.
Taken from Roll Along Thomas:
Series 18 confirmed for 'Trouble on the Tracks' US DVD
The 18th Series is confirmed to appear in an upcoming US DVD from Walmart this spring.
The 2014 season will mark its debut on the Trouble on the Tracks release from the retailer.
Five episodes featuring Thomas, Henry, Annie and Clarabel, Diesel, Salty, The Troublesome Trucks and Paxton will appear alongside the now official return of Toad the Brake Van.
Episodes include;
Thomas the Quarry Engine
Not So Slow Coaches
Flatbeds of Fear
Disappearing Diesels
Toad's Adventure
Extras include;
The Earl's Quiz
Guess Who?
The description reads; Cinders and ashes...there's trouble on the tracks for Thomas and his friends!
The Troublesome Trucks delight in causing chaos for Thomas, as Annie, Clarabel and Toad encounter unexpected high-speed adventures.
Oily Diesel gives Paxton a fright, while Salty's spooky story has the engines running scared. All Aboard for fun and exciting escapades with Thomas & Friends!
Trouble on the Tracks from Lionsgate Entertainment hits US DVD shelves in Walmart stores only on April 8th.
PRE-ORDER THE 'TROUBLE ON THE TRACKS' DVD FROM WALMART
Posted by Melad Moshiri at 2/17/2014 06:39:00 pm 0 comments
Labels: DVD/Blu Ray, TV Series
Toad returning as well is by no means a surprise, but not a bad one. I'll definitely be looking forward to seeing these episodes. As usual, expect yours truly to give my insights on each of these episodes as I did for every season 17 episode. It'll be fun to see the return of Oliver and Toad as well as these other episodes. It also looks like Paxton is becoming a regular character now by making it to season 18!
I'm going to be the umpteenth person to say, "I'm excited for these new episodes" :P It's great to see Toad return, and with Annie and Clarabel experiencing "some unexpected high-speed adventures", that reminds me of a Thomas story that I wrote in my free time a few years ago. Maybe this episode will be just like it?
Quote from: DinoNTrains on February 20, 2014, 12:28:59 AM
I'm going to be the umpteenth person to say, "I'm excited for these new episodes" :P It's great to see Toad return, and with Annie and Clarabel experiencing "some unexpected high-speed adventures", that reminds me of a Thomas story that I wrote in my free time a few years ago. Maybe this episode will be just like it?
Watch it and see.
Anyone see the news?
(https://o.twimg.com/2/proxy.jpg?t=HBgtaHR0cDovL3N0YXRpYy5vdy5seS9waG90b3Mvb3JpZ2luYWwvNFBvdHMucG5nFOADFOADABYAEgA&s=EELE06i-VEWHwm5JY_5XTLe2El9A9awgTzlBm_7oB5E)
Wow...
I have mixed feelings in this recent makeover given to Henrietta.
To get the worst out of the way, here is what I don't like. What I do not like is it ruins Henrietta's true characteristic. Even though she had a face in the railway series (only one illustration, which was published in 2007), the character Henrietta has always been noted to not have a face, which had been mentioned in various character bios about this character. This new addition to the character completely contradicts that which I am not to thrilled about. Another thing I do not like is the face design. The face that was picked for Henrietta looks terrible. If it was something similar to the faces on Annie and Clarabel, then I would warm up to a little more. But as the face looks, particularly the eyebrows, I don't think it looks good on Henrietta.
Now what do I like about this. Well I like that this could give us some promising development not only for Henrietta but also Toby as well. Out of the eight steam team members Toby seems to get the short end of the stick the most throughout the series. In season 17 he only spoke in one episode and that was it. Plus Andrew Brenners other favorite characters besides Bill and Ben are Toby and James. And seeing as how we got good episodes with Bill and Ben I trust Andrew Brenner will now give us a good Toby and Henrietta episode. And it seems like every episode starring Toby past season six has been either boring or just plain terrible. With how good we have seen the writing of the show in the past year, I think this could potentially mean we could get a good Toby episode! So if it means redemption for Toby and also some development for Henrietta then I am all for it.
I am sure I will warm up to this soon but as it is I have mixed feelings on this dramatic change given to this character. We will find out soon what is in store for these two characters.
I'm getting the feeling that the Large Scale range will give Henrietta the updated face probably next year if tat ever gets around...
Quote from: Chaz on March 12, 2014, 08:59:19 PM
I have mixed feelings in this recent makeover given to Henrietta.
To get the worst out of the way, here is what I don't like. What I do not like is it ruins Henrietta's true characteristic. Even though she had a face in the railway series (only one illustration, which was published in 2007), the character Henrietta has always been noted to not have a face, which had been mentioned in various character bios about this character. This new addition to the character completely contradicts that which I am not to thrilled about. Another thing I do not like is the face design. The face that was picked for Henrietta looks terrible. If it was something similar to the faces on Annie and Clarabel, then I would warm up to a little more. But as the face looks, particularly the eyebrows, I don't think it looks good on Henrietta.
Now what do I like about this. Well I like that this could give us some promising development not only for Henrietta but also Toby as well. Out of the eight steam team members Toby seems to get the short end of the stick the most throughout the series. In season 17 he only spoke in one episode and that was it. Plus Andrew Brenners other favorite characters besides Bill and Ben are Toby and James. And seeing as how we got good episodes with Bill and Ben I trust Andrew Brenner will now give us a good Toby and Henrietta episode. And it seems like every episode starring Toby past season six has been either boring or just plain terrible. With how good we have seen the writing of the show in the past year, I think this could potentially mean we could get a good Toby episode! So if it means redemption for Toby and also some development for Henrietta then I am all for it.
I am sure I will warm up to this soon but as it is I have mixed feelings on this dramatic change given to this character. We will find out soon what is in store for these two characters.
love the style of Henrietta's face, but i would have like it to be orange like Annie and Clarabel.
Quote from: Fergusfan17 on March 12, 2014, 06:54:22 PM
Anyone see the news?
(https://o.twimg.com/2/proxy.jpg?t=HBgtaHR0cDovL3N0YXRpYy5vdy5seS9waG90b3Mvb3JpZ2luYWwvNFBvdHMucG5nFOADFOADABYAEgA&s=EELE06i-VEWHwm5JY_5XTLe2El9A9awgTzlBm_7oB5E)
Wow...
This is probably one of the most shocking things to happen in Thomas history...
Quote from: Fergusfan17 on March 12, 2014, 06:54:22 PM
Anyone see the news?
(https://o.twimg.com/2/proxy.jpg?t=HBgtaHR0cDovL3N0YXRpYy5vdy5seS9waG90b3Mvb3JpZ2luYWwvNFBvdHMucG5nFOADFOADABYAEgA&s=EELE06i-VEWHwm5JY_5XTLe2El9A9awgTzlBm_7oB5E)
Wow...
Indeed this is a surprise. Now what I'm wondering is who will voice her? I've always wondered what Henrietta's individual voice would sound like.
Quote from: seanrail on March 13, 2014, 07:13:59 AM
Quote from: Chaz on March 12, 2014, 08:59:19 PM
I have mixed feelings in this recent makeover given to Henrietta.
To get the worst out of the way, here is what I don't like. What I do not like is it ruins Henrietta's true characteristic. Even though she had a face in the railway series (only one illustration, which was published in 2007), the character Henrietta has always been noted to not have a face, which had been mentioned in various character bios about this character. This new addition to the character completely contradicts that which I am not to thrilled about. Another thing I do not like is the face design. The face that was picked for Henrietta looks terrible. If it was something similar to the faces on Annie and Clarabel, then I would warm up to a little more. But as the face looks, particularly the eyebrows, I don't think it looks good on Henrietta.
Now what do I like about this. Well I like that this could give us some promising development not only for Henrietta but also Toby as well. Out of the eight steam team members Toby seems to get the short end of the stick the most throughout the series. In season 17 he only spoke in one episode and that was it. Plus Andrew Brenners other favorite characters besides Bill and Ben are Toby and James. And seeing as how we got good episodes with Bill and Ben I trust Andrew Brenner will now give us a good Toby and Henrietta episode. And it seems like every episode starring Toby past season six has been either boring or just plain terrible. With how good we have seen the writing of the show in the past year, I think this could potentially mean we could get a good Toby episode! So if it means redemption for Toby and also some development for Henrietta then I am all for it.
I am sure I will warm up to this soon but as it is I have mixed feelings on this dramatic change given to this character. We will find out soon what is in store for these two characters.
love the style of Henrietta's face, but i would have like it to be orange like Annie and Clarabel.
Considering she also had the colored face back in the RWS Thomas and Victoria, it would've felt complete in a way...
Well seeing as how most of us witnessed the Season 18 episodes from the Trouble on the Tracks DVD, here are my thoughts so far:
Thomas the Quarry Engine
This was a great start to the season, as we see Thomas taking the lead role in an episode that was by all means worth watching. I loved how Mavis actually had a role in an episode. We haven't had this since around the classic era! On top of that the way how Diesel manipulates Mavis while taking her further away from the quarry was actually pretty clever. It made me feel like I was watching some high school football player trying to steal a girl's attention, but not so much in the romantic sense. It was great seeing Toby with Henrietta picking up the workmen from the quarry, it was a nice touch to the railway series. Though admittedly I did not like Henrietta's voice at all, it got annoying hearing her speak after a while too. But I'll give it some time to grow on me, but her voice by no means affected the episode for me. The crash with Thomas in the siding was a lot of fun to watch and it was one of the most suspenseful moments we have had in the show for a long time. Plus I like how the troublesome trucks spoke dialogue as opposed to "biff bash" or "on on on". I honestly see no fault with this episode whatsoever and it was a great start for the season. 10/10
Not So Slow Coaches - Two fun episodes in a row. It was interesting to see Connor and Caitlin both having a role onto the show again, as well as seeing Charlie actually working in the yard. Yes, Charlie actually was working and not just pulling some train in the background or ran around the Island accomplishing nothing. That could be more than said for Rosie, Neville, the logging locos, and a few other characters. Annie and Clarabel's reactions to Caitlin pulling them around as well as them hoping Connor wouldn't say yes to the race was what made the episode worth watching. Plus, it was nice to see Hiro come back while bringing Annie and Clarabel back from the Mainland. The episode itself was enjoyable but it did have one flaw and it was a big one... how on earth did no one notice that Annie and Clarabel were coupled behind Caitlin's coaches and not acknowledge it? I mean really, Clarabel opened her eyes wide enough to at least recognize it was Charlie pushing her. The men at the yard could have noticed something to, so it was a unrealistic on how this incident had happened in the first place. Nonetheless, it was an episode worth checking out. 8/10
Flatbeds of Fear - This was a pretty good episode too, but it didn't quite make the cut for me like how other episodes so far did. To get the worst out of the way, I did not like how Henry was portrayed in this episode (which was a complete wimp). It never worked for Henry in the past and it did not work well here, regardless of how the writing has improved. Plus hearing Henry repeating himself "I don't want to hear the flatbeds of fear.." got really annoying. Especially when he thought a cow would be the flatbeds of fear. This episode would have worked so much better if Percy had Henry's role since he's more gullible in that sense than Henry is. For what worked in this episode worked really well though. Emily having a role was great, and I loved the bit with her season 8 theme, it was a nice touch. Salty and Cranky were both very humorous in this episode as well, Salty especially at the end. Bill and Ben were the perfect engines to be the next ones to listen to Salty's story at the end of the episode. The animation with the mist was also done very well, as well as the visuals for Salty's story. It's definetely the weakest out of the first five I've seen so far, but even this episode proved to be fairly enjoyable nonetheless. 6/10
Disappearing Diesels - Yet another perfect episode! It seems like any role Paxton is involved with is usually very amusing and this episode is no exception. This episode really shows how much of a well developed character Paxton has become since his role in Blue Mountain Mystery. Plus seeing Sidney appear again was also a nice touch. Diesel was great in this episode too, and I love how despite him not showing any gratitude for Paxton his utter look of confusion when Paxton still helps him out anyway is a nice touch. Much better than what we've seen from Diesel in a certain season 14 episode. The scene with Reg was very funny and easily one of the best moments, especially when Diesel is trying to sound like him while hiding behind the cars. It was an all around great episode and easily another one of my favorites. 10/10
Toad's Adventure - We now come to a close with the final episode of the DVD, the one that I am sure everybody was anticipating for the most, purely and simply for the return of Oliver and Toad. And it was great seeing them both in CGI form. I found myself happy with Oliver's voice and design (despite its flaws). While I liked Toad's design I found his voice to be extremely annoying. He sounded like that one old man from that movie Eight Crazy Nights (forgot his name) and hearing that regularly throughout the episode did get a little tiring, but that doesn't affect my view on the episode as a whole. I would have been a lot happier if we had a voice similar to the one Alec Baldwin gave him in season 5. As far as the episode itself goes, I will just say right now that this episode was definitely worth watching. Escape was referenced, Toad gets a lead role, the 'Little Western' was referenced, and James playing a role in this episode was great! On top of that I loved seeing Thomas taking Sir Topham Hatt and Dowager Hatt in express coaches, and the moment when Dowager asks STH to sing in front of him and STH seemed extremely hesitant was really funny! In the Nitrogen era, I didn't find Dowager Hatt funny or interesting, but here it worked perfectly. I guess if there is one flaw I have to point out it is how Oliver was treating Toad throughout the episode. He sounded just a tad too concieted while focusing on himself while telling Toad his stories, and how he was snooty right in the middle of Toad telling his story in some ways felt a little mean. Normally I wouldn't have minded it but it's Oliver and his trusty brake van Toad, to see Oliver act so inconsiderate like that and didn't make me connect to the character like how I normally would have, despite how much I love this character. Despite that flaw it's easily one of the best, and I think it will be hard to top off. 9/10
So overall I think we are off to a really great start so far, and I am anxious to see how the other 21 episodes turn out. Hopefully we will see more surprises like Donald and Douglas on the way. :)
I'm glad Oliver and Toad are back. I'm pretty sure we'll see Donald & Douglas later this season. I hope they'll also bring back Stepney, or even BoCo or Daisy. I'll be THRILLED to see any of them in full CGI.
Quote from: Chaz on April 08, 2014, 06:43:31 PM
Well seeing as how most of us witnessed the Season 18 episodes from the Trouble on the Tracks DVD, here are my thoughts so far:
Thomas the Quarry Engine
This was a great start to the season, as we see Thomas taking the lead role in an episode that was by all means worth watching. I loved how Mavis actually had a role in an episode. We haven't had this since around the classic era! On top of that the way how Diesel manipulates Mavis while taking her further away from the quarry was actually pretty clever. It made me feel like I was watching some high school football player trying to steal a girl's attention, but not so much in the romantic sense. It was great seeing Toby with Henrietta picking up the workmen from the quarry, it was a nice touch to the railway series. Though admittedly I did not like Henrietta's voice at all, it got annoying hearing her speak after a while too. But I'll give it some time to grow on me, but her voice by no means affected the episode for me. The crash with Thomas in the siding was a lot of fun to watch and it was one of the most suspenseful moments we have had in the show for a long time. Plus I like how the troublesome trucks spoke dialogue as opposed to "biff bash" or "on on on". I honestly see no fault with this episode whatsoever and it was a great start for the season. 10/10
Not So Slow Coaches - Two fun episodes in a row. It was interesting to see Connor and Caitlin both having a role onto the show again, as well as seeing Charlie actually working in the yard. Yes, Charlie actually was working and not just pulling some train in the background or ran around the Island accomplishing nothing. That could be more than said for Rosie, Neville, the logging locos, and a few other characters. Annie and Clarabel's reactions to Caitlin pulling them around as well as them hoping Connor wouldn't say yes to the race was what made the episode worth watching. Plus, it was nice to see Hiro come back while bringing Annie and Clarabel back from the Mainland. The episode itself was enjoyable but it did have one flaw and it was a big one... how on earth did no one notice that Annie and Clarabel were coupled behind Caitlin's coaches and not acknowledge it? I mean really, Clarabel opened her eyes wide enough to at least recognize it was Charlie pushing her. The men at the yard could have noticed something to, so it was a unrealistic on how this incident had happened in the first place. Nonetheless, it was an episode worth checking out. 8/10
Flatbeds of Fear - This was a pretty good episode too, but it didn't quite make the cut for me like how other episodes so far did. To get the worst out of the way, I did not like how Henry was portrayed in this episode (which was a complete wimp). It never worked for Henry in the past and it did not work well here, regardless of how the writing has improved. Plus hearing Henry repeating himself "I don't want to hear the flatbeds of fear.." got really annoying. Especially when he thought a cow would be the flatbeds of fear. This episode would have worked so much better if Percy had Henry's role since he's more gullible in that sense than Henry is. For what worked in this episode worked really well though. Emily having a role was great, and I loved the bit with her season 8 theme, it was a nice touch. Salty and Cranky were both very humorous in this episode as well, Salty especially at the end. Bill and Ben were the perfect engines to be the next ones to listen to Salty's story at the end of the episode. The animation with the mist was also done very well, as well as the visuals for Salty's story. It's definetely the weakest out of the first five I've seen so far, but even this episode proved to be fairly enjoyable nonetheless. 6/10
Disappearing Diesels - Yet another perfect episode! It seems like any role Paxton is involved with is usually very amusing and this episode is no exception. This episode really shows how much of a well developed character Paxton has become since his role in Blue Mountain Mystery. Plus seeing Sidney appear again was also a nice touch. Diesel was great in this episode too, and I love how despite him not showing any gratitude for Paxton his utter look of confusion when Paxton still helps him out anyway is a nice touch. Much better than what we've seen from Diesel in a certain season 14 episode. The scene with Reg was very funny and easily one of the best moments, especially when Diesel is trying to sound like him while hiding behind the cars. It was an all around great episode and easily another one of my favorites. 10/10
Toad's Adventure - We now come to a close with the final episode of the DVD, the one that I am sure everybody was anticipating for the most, purely and simply for the return of Oliver and Toad. And it was great seeing them both in CGI form. I found myself happy with Oliver's voice and design (despite its flaws). While I liked Toad's design I found his voice to be extremely annoying. He sounded like that one old man from that movie Eight Crazy Nights (forgot his name) and hearing that regularly throughout the episode did get a little tiring, but that doesn't affect my view on the episode as a whole. I would have been a lot happier if we had a voice similar to the one Alec Baldwin gave him in season 5. As far as the episode itself goes, I will just say right now that this episode was definitely worth watching. Escape was referenced, Toad gets a lead role, the 'Little Western' was referenced, and James playing a role in this episode was great! On top of that I loved seeing Thomas taking Sir Topham Hatt and Dowager Hatt in express coaches, and the moment when Dowager asks STH to sing in front of him and STH seemed extremely hesitant was really funny! In the Nitrogen era, I didn't find Dowager Hatt funny or interesting, but here it worked perfectly. I guess if there is one flaw I have to point out it is how Oliver was treating Toad throughout the episode. He sounded just a tad too concieted while focusing on himself while telling Toad his stories, and how he was snooty right in the middle of Toad telling his story in some ways felt a little mean. Normally I wouldn't have minded it but it's Oliver and his trusty brake van Toad, to see Oliver act so inconsiderate like that and didn't make me connect to the character like how I normally would have, despite how much I love this character. Despite that flaw it's easily one of the best, and I think it will be hard to top off. 9/10
So overall I think we are off to a really great start so far, and I am anxious to see how the other 21 episodes turn out. Hopefully we will see more surprises like Donald and Douglas on the way. :)
my suggested Improvement for Toad's Adventure is to include Duck in the cast.
and I also feel sorry for Mavis being tricked by Diesel and her, Diesel and Thomas getting into trouble with The Fat Controller; there should have be a continuing episode that shows Thomas and Mavis getting their own back at Diesel like in Disappearing Diesels.
what do you lot think? what about you, Chaz?
Personally I liked Thomas the Quarry Engine as it was. It's easily my favorite out of all the season 18 episodes we have so far, one of the main reasons is because of how 'devious' Diesel was to Mavis throughout that episode. Felt very much like a classic series episode. That and I loved how very similar the accident was to a very classic episode:
(http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20140417151315/ttte/images/2/20/ThomastheQuarryEngine82.png)
(http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20130620134635/ttte/images/e/e9/ThomasandtheTrucks17.png)
Another nice Easter Egg from Andrew Brenner! Same station, similar accident, water tower on the left side, eyes shut... I can't believe I didn't catch this when I first watched the episode!
Quote from: Chaz on May 03, 2014, 02:47:16 AM
Personally I liked Thomas the Quarry Engine as it was. It's easily my favorite out of all the season 18 episodes we have so far, one of the main reasons is because of how 'devious' Diesel was to Mavis throughout that episode. Felt very much like a classic series episode. That and I loved how very similar the accident was to a very classic episode:
(http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20140417151315/ttte/images/2/20/ThomastheQuarryEngine82.png)
(http://img3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20130620134635/ttte/images/e/e9/ThomasandtheTrucks17.png)
Another nice Easter Egg from Andrew Brenner! Same station, similar accident, water tower on the left side, eyes shut... I can't believe I didn't catch this when I first watched the episode!
i suppose, but that does not stop Mavis and Thomas getting into trouble with The Fat Controller because of Diesel's manipulative plan.
Kinda reading a bit much into it. I mean at the end of the day ya Thomas not Game Of Thrones. Punishments aren't that severe. And no they really didn't. Mavis did but Thomas didn't. Even Mavis he forgave and let work at the docks. I love that bad thing can happen to the engines again. Shows what real life is like. Which is what made the show so great before.
Never the less, Hope Brenner writes a continuing story from this, inspire of disappearing diesels.
Anyone else notice that in the end Mavis had balloons tied to her?
Did anyone notice that in flatbeds of fear, the S.S. Roxstar changed position in some Brendam Docks scenes?
Quote from: seanrail on March 12, 2014, 09:09:45 AM
Quote from: DinoNTrains on February 20, 2014, 12:28:59 AM
I'm going to be the umpteenth person to say, "I'm excited for these new episodes" :P It's great to see Toad return, and with Annie and Clarabel experiencing "some unexpected high-speed adventures", that reminds me of a Thomas story that I wrote in my free time a few years ago. Maybe this episode will be just like it?
Watch it and see.
Yes, it is similar to what I wrote
After watching "Toad's Adventure," I've forgotten how unique of a character Oliver is. People complain he's conceited, but he's been "puffed up in his smokebox" in the classic series as well. Oliver's character seems to influenced on whatever surrounds him. I actually prefer him this way as it makes him a less generic character.
Oliver and Toad's CGI voices sound like characters from some classic Disney animation. I'm not sure who, but I've heard several characters with accents very similar.
Any episode title suggestions we should have for the rest of Season 18 and its synopsis?
here are some of my suggestions
Sprang a Leak: Diesel teases Thomas about his leaky tank after Thomas' siderods snap and punctured his water tank, but leaks turn on Diesel when he springs an oil leak.
The Boat Train: A boat train called 'The Brendam Ferry' has started up to take passengers to Brendam Docks to catch the ocean liners. When Henry is chosen to take the train, Gordon will do anything to pull the train, but it becomes a sail against time when the ocean liner, RMS Cunard of Sodor, is due early. (note: RMS Cunard of Sodor is recycled from TUGS' 'The Duchess' model.)
The Stephen Chief (based on Walt Disney's Peter Pan and the fairy tale by James M. Barrie): When Peter Pan is the chosen pantomime at the town hall, Bridget Hatt wants to see the pantomime, but her brother Stephen Hatt is scared of the Red Indians in the pantomime for an apparently grizzly reason. Can he overcome his phobia before the pantomime and before Bash, Dash and Ferdinand find out and use it as an advantage for mischief, which can result in a potential fire on Misty island?
What do you think of these story suggestions and ratings out of 10? what abut you, Chaz? and I do mean for every episode title suggestion, not all of them in a bundle.
You want us to rate your episodes?
Just forget it.
Look man we don't mean to insult or offend you hit you seem to have the wrong idea of what this forum is about, and forum etiquette in general really. As for rating your episodes that would make me feel a little uncomfortable. Just be confident in your own work, write scripts, re write make it better. But you be the judge.
I wish we knew when we'll have more Season 18 episodes. I'm also eager to see Donald and Douglas in full CGI.
Hah! I'm just hoping that Duncan can eventually show up soon.....
Not to mention it'll be nice to see who else will return :D
There is a picture of CGI Duncan about somewhere - was in a magazine so not great quality.
EDIT: Found it!
http://th09.deviantart.net/fs70/200H/f/2014/165/4/f/cgi_duncan_by_jeremycrispo19-d7mcxs6.jpg
Quote from: Chaz on April 08, 2014, 03:29:25 PM
Quote from: thomasj219 on April 08, 2014, 02:23:13 PM
Apparently the same guy who voices Oliver is voicing Donald and Douglas, and they are returning soon.
Knew it was only a matter of time before we would see those two. They couldn't do Duck and Oliver and NOT bring Donald and Douglas back too.
Hope to see Stepney and Duncan next.
Quote from: therailwayinspector on July 13, 2014, 09:04:53 AM
There is a picture of CGI Duncan about somewhere - was in a magazine so not great quality.
EDIT: Found it!
http://th09.deviantart.net/fs70/200H/f/2014/165/4/f/cgi_duncan_by_jeremycrispo19-d7mcxs6.jpg
That takes one more off my list! Hopefully Stepney will be the next character to return, then I'll pretty much be content.
With Duncan, Oliver, Toad and Donald & Douglas returning this series, I dare say anyone else will be next series.
What are people's thoughts on the image of Duncan (from what they can see.)
I like it, I mean if anything he'll look more true to his basis. I would love for BoCo and Daisy to return. Or Duke.
Cool!:)
I'm anxious for more season 18 news. :-\
Quote from: TrainFan97 on July 21, 2014, 07:44:55 PM
I'm anxious for more season 18 news. :-\
No kidding...
And with roll along thomas shutting down, I am going to have to find my news elsewhere! :o
When will Roll Along Thomas shut down?
Was there a given reason? I don't often look on that site
I'm surprised there hasn't been discussion over the recent season 18 episodes that have been discovered. Next week we will finally get an episode with Edward and Toby. The following week will also show us two episodes starring James and Duck, and another episode on Thomas' branch line. All of them sound interesting, I am particularly excited for Duck and the Slip Coaches, since the writing team clearly did their homework when it came to referencing the slip coaches from the Great Western Railway.
http://ttte.wikia.com/wiki/Season_18
What is everyone elses thoughts on what has been revealed so far for season 18?
When were the titles released? Anyway, after reading their summaries, I'd say that they definitely have potential.
Well hopefully after Old Reliable Edward aired today, I hope it sparks up discussion here too! Here are my thoughts on the episode:
Wow. This is the first episode of the season and already I can tell it is going to be one of my favorites. The fact that we are getting a GOOD Edward episode is a huge highlight for me, and we haven't had a good Edward episode in a long time, since the model era actually. Considering how little he did in season 17, this was a nice breath of fresh air.
It was great seeing the rivalry we have witnessed between Gordon and Edward that we have not seen since the classic series. Edwards branch line getting mentioned was a huge plus as well as Edward's reaction to Gordon getting stuck on the hill.
"Not again... And he thinks I'm unreliable... Honestly.." When was the last time we had a quote like this one in the show? It was brief and blunt and really worked to it's advantage. The facial expressions from all the characters, particularly Thomas, were pretty funny and also kept me watching the episode.
After reading a few comments on YouTube, I can tell some people complained about the way how the switches worked in the episode. Honestly, that part really didn't bother me. It's a fault that's seen throughout the CGI series as a whole, as well as the model era on occasion so I guess you gotta go with what you're given on that one.
However if I had to point out one thing it would be the engines personalities being a bit too overboard in the episode, particularly Gordon. It's a very similar fault I mentioned in Toad's Adventure where the characters became less engaging as the episode went on. Even though you were not ideally supposed to be cheering Gordon on, I felt that the way that they portrayed his negativity was a bit over the top. This can especially be said when he was contradicting himself with why he needed help on the hill earlier and denying that he actually needed the help later on.
Aside from that, this was a very entertaining episode, and I know that after the couple of times I have watched this episode I know it won't be the last, much like many of the episodes from this season and season 17.
9/10
I just loved everything about how Thomas went onto Gordon's line and how Thomas continued on slowing down until Gordon had to halt on Gordon's hill whilst Thomas puffed away! Lol!:)
Just got done watching Signals Crossed. And here's my analysis:
The Good:
Henrietta- Good to hear her speak after so long. (though I was able to hear it on the Trouble on the Tracks DVD)
Cameos- Kind of nice to see Stanley and Rosie, actually. They haven't been seen that much lately.
The Animation- Superb, as usual. (I do like the CGI Arc has made.)
The Bad:
Toby's Cowardice- I don't like how he acts like this in the newer episodes. This low self-esteem of his seems out of
character.
Overall:
Good episode, but I could have been a bit better, say, if a different engine were used. I don't know. I wouldn't know what to rate this, so I'll let you all decide.
Duck and the Slip Coaches is my favorite of the season so far. And Brenner didn't even write it. Thomas is back!
Honestly, I can't find anything bad about Duck and the slip coaches. I hope the slip coaches will occur in future episodes with Duck seeing how the classic series didn't even have Duck's coaches from the Railway Series. The best part had to be seeing Duck back at Tidmouth recreating not only the classic scene at the sheds, but taking a jab at Emily as well, twice! :D
I don't watch much of the CGI series, but I have been looking for the newest few from season 18 to see what all the hype was about.
Duck and the Slip Coaches I think by far is the best one of the season so far, but I'm not going to say it was perfect. The thing I liked the best was that Thomas did not have a main role in this episode... (finally!) Thomas did not resolve the conflict; rather Duck.
The part I did not like was that James was (like always) is the one creating the problem. I would like to see an episode where James does not have any rude lines... or wrongdoings.
This episode was very interesting though. I had never heard of slip coaches, and I liked the fact that an episode was about something never in an episode before. Also, Male coaches :)
7.5/10
(Blows dust off the thread.)
James is an antihero, he's portrayed like a brash teenager. I guess many people have gotten used to that one-dimensional paint snob he was reduced to S8-16. He's a flawed, but 3-dimensional character. Same with Oliver how believes he's some so-called hero.
One character I was really happy to return this season was Duncan. He makes the NG railway more fun. Plus you kinda get a feel of his personality better this season.
As with the new characters well, Marion is my favorite this season, in fact she may already be one of my favorite characters. :D
Samson however, well I know the character's portrayal leaves fans mixed, but personally I enjoy how he's utalized as a character. I'm glad there's a rude/arrogant type character out of the new characters introduced S17-18 era. :D
I really do like how most of the characters that have been portrayed this season are more cocky now. ;)
Quote from: TBModels on September 04, 2014, 03:34:02 PM
I don't watch much of the CGI series, but I have been looking for the newest few from season 18 to see what all the hype was about.
Duck and the Slip Coaches I think by far is the best one of the season so far, but I'm not going to say it was perfect. The thing I liked the best was that Thomas did not have a main role in this episode... (finally!) Thomas did not resolve the conflict; rather Duck.
The part I did not like was that James was (like always) is the one creating the problem. I would like to see an episode where James does not have any rude lines... or wrongdoings.
This episode was very interesting though. I had never heard of slip coaches, and I liked the fact that an episode was about something never in an episode before. Also, Male coaches :)
7.5/10
although the shed gag with Emily was funny first time round, it should have been James the second time.
I guess I'll fill in the gaps that was left off, since there still is a lot people would probably like to talk about.
Old Reliable Edward: 9.5/10
Not so Slow Coaches: 8/10
Flatbeds of Fear: 6.5/10
Disappearing Diesels: 9.5/10
Signals Crossed: 5/10
Toad's Adventure: 8.5/10
Thomas the Quarry Engine: 9.5/10
Duck in the Water:
I know a lot of people complain that this episode only gets praise because Duck and Oliver are in it, but there is still plenty to enjoy. This is one Andrew Brenner's simplistic slice-of-life episodes with great appeal. While it's certainly not the most exciting, it still teaches great morals. I think the best aspect is that James shows maturity in owning up to his mistake. The one big thing that did irritate me was how quickly that Rocky started dangerously swinging, and would've probably been a nasty blow to one of the workmen. It probably would've worked better if Rocky seemed alright and then slowly started swinging more and more dangerously. Otherwise, I'd give this one 7.5/10.
Duck and the Slip Coaches:
This is the episode that seems to get the most praise of the whole season, and the most controversy. Arguably, it does deserve all the praise. The slip coaches are not only intriguing as a concept, but fascinating to see in action, and as many seem to say the fact that real railway aspects are being incorporated more into the show could really help get children more interested in trains - that's always welcomed! Not only that, but it really shows what a great closeness Duck had with the coaches, so they're not just new chracters with no backstory to relate to or be interesting. I'm glad that Duck was the one to fix the problem, rather than say Thomas, and any one who has ever had an idea that is rightfully there's can easily feel sorry for him. If there's thing that was a bit of a misstep, it would be the most controversial scene - the nod by the writers of Emily replacing Duck in the sheds, with it being swapped. Honestly, I find it very smart on the Mark and Nick's part, and it gave me an honest chuckle. Though I do kind of agree that the second shot at the end should've been done with James if mean spirited comedy is meant to be done right. This episode does deserve 10/10 for how much detail and effort was done to railway accuracy while still telling a good lesson.
The only thing that still doesn't sit well with me is how this episode in particular seems to have drawn so much hate on Duck, which most Thomas fans probably are aware of by now.
Thomas and the Emergency Cable:
Another slice of life episode combined with another railway accurate aspect. Slice of life episodes really seem to work when focusing on Thomas' branch line, and this one in particular feels like a season 1 episode. Andrew and the writers seem to really get the chemistry between Thomas, Annie and Clarabel. This seemed to be the first episode this season with some real human interaction - something a lot of fans wanted. The aspects of both emergency pull cables and flat spots on wheels were both things that have never been seen before. Not only that, but the episode nicely delivers the moral that two wrongs don't make a right. It does seem odd, however, Thomas could only do his jobs with only Clarabel, and that Annie AND Clarabel have emergency brakes. I'm sure many others say the same thing. 8/10
Duncan and the Grumpy Passenger:
Ah yes, the great return of Duncan, and it did live up to its hype! The beautiful shot to show the castle causeway returning, not to mention the return of Crovan's Gate station after a 14 season absence. I won't get into how utterly relatable the moral is to the fans, since it's pretty obvious. Duncan is portrayed as his old grouchy self, yet the episode does well in making him a character that you want to succeed, which is very welcomed since almost every other time Duncan has been in the focus he's been the antagonist. Not to mention that the run of the episode is consistently entertaining and fun. Tom Stourton does a great job as Duncan, and feels reminiscent to the days when George Carlin narrated. Probably the only thing that feels contrived is the limited amount of coaches on hand, but it's not a big of a deal breaker. 9/10
Marion and the Pipe:
Marion has grown not only as a likable CGI character, but a great female role model all in all in the show. She's chatty, full of energy, works hard, and doesn't mind getting dirty. Sure, she's flawed, but then again all good characters are to a degree. This episode envelopes all of those aspects well. t's clear Olivia Colman (Hot Fuzz, Secret World of Arrietty) is having a lot of fun putting effort into this role. Bill and Ben of course offered some hilarious expressions and dialogue. The moral on covering up lies was delivered decently, and that how it often leads to even greater trouble if it's not told sooner than later. The episode, however, does seem to drag out in a few parts, and of course Thomas is there when I feel Edward would've been a better choice. The Clay Pits are on Edward's branch line, after all. 7/10
Missing Gator:
I was quite impressed that Andrew chose to build on a story from one episode to another. This definitely felt like the earliest seasons, from the "Tenders & Turntables" and "Duck Vs. Diesel" arcs. This was quite a sweet, and relatively charming episode, not to mention the flashbacks were used quite nicely. I was happy to see Ulfstead Castle and Millie after awhile. The episode itself however felt that it could've worked without excess use in the narration, and a few more different ideas compared to TotB (as some say it's like an 8 minute version of the full length special). Although, that rhyme was quite amusing, the trucks actually learned a lesson for once, and I find the runaway trucks moment as a slight reference to S5's Put Upon Percy. Not to mention, as far as I'm concerned it's the final chapter in Percy being brave, this time proving it by himself. 8/10
No Steam Without Coal:
Bill and Ben being in the spotlight almost always guarantees an entertaining episode. I laughed out loud at Ben's funny face, and their banter. They're still the obnoxious immature teenager-like munchkins we love. I like the family dynamic being used between the 4 Clay Pit engines, such as Marion as the mother of three kids in the Clay Pits (must get stressful after awhile...). After seeing Timothy rather limited in TotB, I did like how he was portrayed here: a little insecure, disciplined, and rather straight laced. His "Don't look at me!" quote pretty much said it all. Plus, another jab at the Logging Locos is always welcome. The moral that being the odd-engine-out can prove really useful has been done before quite a bit before, and to be honest it wasn't done too differently from past attempts, but it just seemed to work anyways in this environment. The only other problem is how very (more so than normal) how unused the crews were for the episode run, but it still doesn't take away how utterly funny and entertaining the episode was on a whole. 9/10
Spencer's VIP:
Andrew Brenner was really good incorporating so many characters for this episode, and it really feels like the old seasons how many different characters were used to add variety. I know many complain how Duck and Oliver were shoehorned into this episode, but no one complained when they were used in certain episodes in seasons 3-6. Besides, you can't deny that scene with them was really funny. And I don't mean funny "weird" when we see how utterly out of scale Oliver is... Spencer getting on the wrong tracks is a heavy reminder of Wrong Road, right down to switching tracks with Edward (who I'm glad was in character for the whole episode not trying to show off like everyone else) to leading him to Bill and Ben. Most importantly, is the fact that Spencer in this episode finally learned from his mistakes, because he should have (unlike almost every other time he's appeared in an episode) - this is how you develop characters. Not to mention that we get two morals delivered excellently in one episode - showing off almost always leads to mistakes, as well as everyone deserves to get a second chance to redeem themselves. I'm just a little off put by Thomas' mistake scene, saying his mistakes were the silliest of them all, as it doesn't really help Thomas step out of his "image" he earned during seasons 9-16. Still, it's a great episode and another one of my favorites. 9/10
Toad's Bright Idea:
This was a first - a midquel episode, and it worked out very well! I really liked the teaching of white and red lens lamps on locomotives and brake vans on real railways, as well as the interaction between Toad and Gator - I hope we see more interaction of old returning favorite characters interacting with fresh new ones. Toad and Gator play off each other nicely. Oliver didn't do all that much, again, but it didn't feel like he was just shoehorned. It's nice to see Toad get frustrated for once, and the moral of how important both headlights and Toad as the "conductor" of the train was nicely written. It also delivers the moral that you should listen to those with more experience than you nicely. With the majority of the watchers, I'm a tad confused of the inconsistencies with this and TotB, especially after Gator inadvertently scares James. It is notably confusing.
8/10
Quote from: MeganekkoFury1126 on April 01, 2015, 01:32:58 PM
Duck and the Slip Coaches:
This is the episode that seems to get the most praise of the whole season, and the most controversy. Arguably, it does deserve all the praise. The slip coaches are not only intriguing as a concept, but fascinating to see in action, and as many seem to say the fact that real railway aspects are being incorporated more into the show could really help get children more interested in trains - that's always welcomed! Not only that, but it really shows what a great closeness Duck had with the coaches, so they're not just new chracters with no backstory to relate to or be interesting. I'm glad that Duck was the one to fix the problem, rather than say Thomas, and any one who has ever had an idea that is rightfully there's can easily feel sorry for him. If there's thing that was a bit of a misstep, it would be the most controversial scene - the nod by the writers of Emily replacing Duck in the sheds, with it being swapped. Honestly, I find it very smart on the Mark and Nick's part, and it gave me an honest chuckle. Though I do kind of agree that the second shot at the end should've been done with James if mean spirited comedy is meant to be done right. This episode does deserve 10/10 for how much detail and effort was done to railway accuracy while still telling a good lesson.
The only thing that still doesn't sit well with me is how this episode in particular seems to have drawn so much hate on Duck, which most Thomas fans probably are aware of by now.
The problem with the shed gag was why I wrote my story 'Berth Brawl'.
Marion and the Dinosaurs
This is a definite shout out to Thomas, Percy and the Dragon from season 3, and that was a great episode! While this episode certainly wasn't as potentially scary, I still feel it was a very good episode! I really like that Stephen and the Earl have appeared again after quite a rather long hiatus. Marion, Millie and Stephen's scared reactions were all quite funny, and I love the little funny quotes written in by Brenner. The ending one in particular with Stephen was especially clever. The plot itself may not be the strongest, but the Dino Park idea being introduced as well as Samson does provide a lot for the show to build on now, which is always a good thing. However, I'm again irked by Thomas being thrown in. Even more so than in Marion and the Pipe, they could've easily put in another engine in his place. I'm perfectly happy giving this one 8/10.
Millie & the Volcano
I think the overall morals in this episode is the strongest points, well those and that we get a very amusing Millie episode. The cast choice was something really unique! We're getting an idea of what Samson is - kinda snooty, pompous, and big headed, and that contrasted well with Harvey's more subdued, kinder persona. The groundskeeper talked - that is a HUGE plus. Millie is developed very well, and the moral that it's not a very good idea to get even over petty problems is delivered nicely. What I didn't like was how easily Samson and Harvey bought the trick that the volcano was erupting, especially when Samson says there's hot lava coming down when there clearly isn't. However, the ending with Sir Topham, Dowager and the Earl was very funny! I really hope the writers put them together in another episode soon! 7.5/10
Samson Sent for Scrap
Okay, this is a really difficult one to talk about. Once again, we get Samson and Harvey together. Scruff, Bertie and Reg all got strong roles, MORE people talked, and the part with Sir Topham Hatt's car getting a flat and how he cares only about it so much was very funny, not to mention the ending with the mirror falling off. However, there are a lot of flaws to point out. Most importantly is how did Harvey stuff the car in the truck with all the other junk? That seems almost impossible... Also that most of the things that Samson confuses for scrap don't look old or junky enough to be considered scrap to the audience. It makes Samson look very dimwitted, too. That's another problem, he acts so unintelligent throughout the whole episode, and worst gets no consequences really. There is a difference between being arrogant and being completely blind to common sense. Even though I like that Scruff some time to shine, his moment to do so at the end feels very clichéd. I'm quite conflicted to give this episode 5/10 as I really like this episode's strengths, but I really dislike its weaknesses.
Timothy and the Rainbow Truck
In my opinion, this was the overall weakest episode of the new 6. Iit does get kinda boring in the middle, which is particularly disappointing considering we needed a Timothy focused episode when Bill and Ben pretty much stole the show in No Steam Without Coal. Seriously, when did all the trucks on Sodor come in all those overtly bright colors? That feels EXTREMELY forced just for this episode. Not to mention all the other moments don't really help in the storytelling - they're just there as filler really. However, we do get Timothy's gullible side for a change, and he feels like the Pops (Regular Show) of the Thomas world. The problem it seems is, even though I like him, Timothy doesn't have much of a personality to call his own. His gullibility is something we've already seen in Paxton, and his pride of being different is already in Porter. If they could do something with his straight laced personality, then we do have something! I will say the ending is much, much deserved catharsis for Bill and Ben, and that Timothy is not above getting even with those who make a fool of him. I like that Salty played a nice role in it, as well as that it does teach children a bit about different colors. Nonetheless, the overall end product is my least favorite episode of season 18. 4.5/10
Emily Saves the World
Okay....this is arguably my favorite episode of the Dinos & Discoveries 6 pack. Kinda ironic since many people thought this would be a bad rehash of Rusty and the Boulder, but it didn't! First off, this really was the right episode for Emily, and showed off her personality very well. I did like that both Laura Beaumont and Paul Larson did good on all the past specials the engines took...maybe a bit too good...I mean we get referenced to good past episodes like Thomas Meets the Queen and Thomas the Jet Engine (which was also quite weird), but then we get referenced to the pretty bad Rheneas and the Dinosaur...but I digress. Fortunately, this wasn't as insanely over the top as Rusty and the Boulder, but yeah, it still was in its own way. The only major problem I had was that the whole story's original focus kinda got lost towards the middle. What the episode did do particularly good for a first time was making Captain actually did something useful, especially for the story. Why haven't they put him in the Docks before? There's also some excellent comedy sprinkled in here, from Sir Topham Hatt blatantly unaware of the globe and Emily going behind his back and the signalman ducking for his life in the switch tower. All in all, I fell happy saying this is a season 9-16 episode done correctly, even if it's not perfect. 8.5/10
Samson at Your Service
This episode shows that, just like Brenner, Davey Moore really knows how to write comedy and incorporate so many characters. There are so many funny moments: Gordon pulling Annie and Clarabel, Bill and Ben's teasing, and especially Sir Topham Hatt still driving Winston horribly on and off like that - that is comedy gold. That little bit with Thomas, Percy and Duck feels like a nice throwback of the 3 friends in Toad Stands By from season 4. I know it's small and yeah Duck's just there for that scene for a quick quip, but sometimes it's the little things that make a difference. Though there's that animation error on James' chassis that makes me a bit uncomfortable...I don't know... This episode does have quite a few flaws beside that however, primarily the same problem from Duncan and the Grumpy Passenger in that you'd figure the railway would have more than those 5 express coaches for Gordon to pull. The familiar 3 strike formula...which is a bit more obvious than we have seen in the Brenner era, but to be honest it's still less forced than in seasons 9-16. Sure, Samson is a pretty big, pompous jerk still (which I actually welcome since it's something different for a change), though here it's handled all in all better than Samson Sent for Scrap. The moral is nicely delivered, and very relatable all the way through. I think that's the reason why sometimes contrivance doesn't hurt an overall story as a whole. At least for me. 8/10 Oh yeah, and who could forget Stanley talking after so long?