What makes the plot to this feature more engaging than previous ones is how it merges all threads together at the end. These were things that made fans look forward to what this feature was going to offer. The screenplay was written by Andrew Brenner, a long time fan of the show and writer to shows like Fireman Sam. Directing went to Rob Silvestri, an animator to other films like 9 (2009) and Gnomeo & Juliet (2011). The direction and writing for this feature was handled by a whole new set of people this round. From what's been told though, there's a possibility of the king's crown of the old castle lying around the land somewhere. Along with that he brings an engine to the island named Stephen who was one of the first railway engines around. With the Earl of Sodor arriving on the island, Sir Robert Norramby looks to rebuild an old castle that had been abandoned for some time. The plot to this story has a mix of threads that intertwine into one. Adding to that were other things being altered that demonstrated the creative team behind everything was looking for new ways to bring in old and new fans. A big one was dropping Michael Brandon and Michael Angelis and replacing them with Mark Moraghan as universal narrator for the show. However there were still a number of changes being implemented that further distanced the brand from its origins. This attracted more of the older fan base and began making people feel more optimistic about the show's future. Not only were older characters returning, but the plots were becoming more crafty. With more recent specials receiving better ratings and appreciation among fans, the Thomas & Friends brand at this point was beginning to have a comeback. Fun, knowledgeable, and just all around good entertainment, King of the Railway is a good watch for all fans of the little blue tank engine. However, for a first attempt, they did very well, but I don't think I like the animation as much as that by Nitrogen Studios just yet. The animation by Arc is bright, colourful and fast, but there are a few points where it feels a bit unfinished. It's safe to say that writer Andrew Brenner did his research well, as there are a few references to the classic series included, and the first few minutes touch upon something never shown in the TV series before. Also, the new characters introduced in this special are, for the most part, well written and developed (one character's back story even tells a history lesson about the early days of the railways). Definitely! The main characters that many fans know and love are in character throughout the special, and this leads to some rather funny and witty lines. So, does it do better than the last few specials. However, this special marks the debut of a new head writer, as well as new animators in the form of Arc Productions ("Gnomeo and Juliet" and "9"). Like many fans of the show, I believe that Thomas & Friends has been going down a slippery slope over the past few years in terms of writing.
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