“The grass is always greener on the other side.”
“I’m imperfect, so I’m useless.”
“I’m the victim here, aren’t you supposed to help me? Who cares about you, it’s all about me, the victim!”
These are common ideas that permeate through the history of the human social fabric, and are even more pronounced in today’s inclination towards materialism, relativity and entitlement.
Go on a Journey Beyond Sodor
Thomas & Friends: Journey Beyond Sodor manages to address these misconceptions through a cleverly woven story that takes Thomas the Tank Engine out of his comfort zone and into a whirlwind adventure into unfamiliar territory and acquaintances, some of curious differences, and others of a more sinister nature.
Fans of Thomas & Friends will not be disappointed with the appearance of numerous familiar characters, as well as some special new ones. My son was so entranced by the myriad of characters and non-stop action that he remained attentive to the whole movie without once stopping to even make a comment – a rare thing indeed!
Celebrating Friendship, Inclusiveness & Camaraderie
The dialogue was light and very child-friendly, even when they had to tackle subjects of betrayal, deception and rejection.
While not a big fan of Thomas & Friends, I found myself drawn into the roller-coaster adventure of Thomas, and actually sighed with glee when issues were nicely wrapped and resolved at the end.
My daughter, on the other hand, did not quite share the same enthusiasm as she was only on the lookout for princesses and magic ponies. Hence, from my experience, I would say this movie provides best entertainment to those who are Thomas & Friends fans or at least inclined to gadgets, gizmos and thing-a-majigs.
Nonetheless, my son and I left the cinema with big smiles, bubbling with excitement as we recounted the new characters with interesting functions and personalities, plus the value of true friendship.
Thomas & Friends: Journey Beyond Sodor opens in Golden Village cinemas from 31 August 2017.
