I’ve only got into the story quite recently, but I’ve quickly fallen in love with the 1970 film. Everything about it works very well: the casting is on point, the locos have a unique charm, the score is great and all the emotional moments work extremely well. In particular I love the landslide scene and the ochre Pannier (which really should stay in that livery). A little bit of sadness on the side of this story: I got into the film properly just over a month before Bernard Cribbins’ tragic passing. That doesn’t stop me from loving the film though.
I remember visiting the Bluebell Railway around the time they were filming. Very surreal experience seeing everything lettered up for the GN&SR. Although it slightly ruins the magic when you steam past the landslide and see that it's a trolley on rails.
I build and supplied the props for Peter's Toy Engine that was used in the stage versions of the story performed at Waterloo, King's Cross and in Canada. The locomotives are heaviliy modified Mamod locomotives from my 16mm railway. Loved the story since I was very young. Even now my daughters if I meet them at a station can be prone to a bit of "Daddy, my Daddy" on the platform!. The original prop was a 3 1/2" gauge locomotive but none of the cast could lift it!
@@eliotreader8220 A fellow member of the yacht club was appearing and asked if I had anything suitable as the prop they had bought was too heavy. They'd borrowed a 3 1/2" gaued loco (think it was Titch) but the actors couldnt manage it. I rebuilt the Mamod so that an obvious compnent could fall off.
The 1968 version is better imo. The cast are closer to the ages of the characters. And Nesbit tended to write in a serialised way which suits a series.
I love the 1970 version, I watched countless times when I was a kid. As for the plays I saw the 2009 show at Waterloo station and then the one at King’s cross station
I remember seeing the 1970 version at the cinema when I was about 8. It was a typical school holiday audience: mothers and children. I think everyone was crying at the famous final scene on the platform. Last Christmas I noted that the same suburban cinema was screening the film for the school holidays. And the same crowds of children, with their mothers - and some fathers too - were streaming in. There's nothing like a classic.
Iv seen both films but not all of the tv series. The 1970 film staring Jenny Agutter, Sally Thomsett, Bernard Cribbins & Dinah Sheridan is my favourite.
1970s version is the best to me and one of my favourite films. Also saw a recorded performance of the theatre show when it was at the railway museum which was very fun to watch!
1970 version is the iconic one for me: Jenny+KWVR+Yorkshire scenery and wit, and the fact that YOU can go there and experience Oakworth station just as it was in the film. However I have watched and enjoyed them all and are very much looking forward to the new one currently being filmed on the KWVR. Jenny Agutter was in all three versions so weaves a continuity element. Will she play a role in the new version too? I do hope so, even if only a cameo. I actually met her, on a walk, in May 2005, on the KWVR and it was a real honour, such a talented and lovely actress, and she even taught me a few things about posing for photos.
Love the original one, had such a great cast , absolutely loved Bernard Cribbins . The Yorkshire countryside , and the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, it’s one of my favourite places to visit. It also had the best bits of humour in it too. Sadly the newer sequel hasn’t lived up to my expectations at all. I’d read the book and thought it was a great storyline, unfortunately it wasn’t followed.
Hi Chris, the M&GN re-traced DVD arrived today, I watched it and I have enjoyed everything covered. Although I have a good outline of knowledge of the M&GN, I still found it shocking when you qualified on a map of the remains of the M&GN. I was very happy when I was told you'd be coming to Whitwell to do some filming and I feel you've given us some light which we've been in need of for some time. I'm glad you and your partner enjoyed yourself's with us, it has given us a boost to keep doing what we're doing. So thank you Tom
At 80 years old I have seen all versions including the 1950s one , which I assume is “lost”. I have enjoyed all in their various ways and look forward to the 2022 remake. Just great entertainment for all ages!!
The second movie was my first experience in watching and learning about The Railway Children and it still holds as being my favourite film adaptation version.
I've only seen the 2000 version and I loved it. My son when he was younger and obsessed with trains loved the film as well. I'd love to see the 1970 version.
4:01 - My favourite part of them all, with some slightly over-enthusiastic flag waving from 'Mr Mitchell' himself... :D In all seriousness though, long live the Lionel Jefferies version. Certainly gets better with age; grand casting, memorable performances, and of course, the superb classic location of the KWVR. Didn't mind the 2000 version either. (Incidentally, Bluebell driver Clive Groom who pops up here and there, was and still is, a footplate legend!) Top work once again Chris, and an early Merry Xmas to you too!
It took a while for the 2000 version to endear itself to me, but it got there...so I can honestly say the 1970 and 2000 hold an equal place in my heart...and I still fancy Jenny Agutter something chronic.
I will always remember the 2000 adaptation as starring "Baby Ingrid" (playing Phyllis in this adaptation) . The actress taking the role of Ingrid Dracula many years later in the cbbc series Yopung Dracula.
Never seen any of the films or the stage productions, but in 2011 they put it on in Toronto and brought an LSWR T3 over, I'm still angry I wasn't able to make it up there while it was still there.
I know what you mean. I was actually in London in 2010 when they held the live performance at the Eurostar terminal at Waterloo Station with the Stirling Single, but I only learned about it they day before I was due to fly home to Texas, with no time to get out there or buy a ticket. I certainly was grumpy about that.
These films prompted my interest in model railroading. Now Hornby, Dapol, Bachmann, Hatton's, Rails and C E-G, etc are familiar names. Too bad none of the heritage railways run to Florida.
It's great to see you finally tackle arguably the most famous "railway story" of them all aside from the blue one and MotOE. The 1970 film has always been a must watch whenever I see it's on, and is one of my favourite films of all time. Screw the wibble over inauthentic liveries, that was back when preservation could have a bit of fun, and I think it's awesome both the Pannier and now the Ironclad have been returned to their film colours. Sadly, I haven't seen either of the other screen adaptations, though I have read the book and saw the version of the theatre production that was filmed at York with the Pannier and released in cinemas.
I have the 70s one which I enjoy time time again. And I also have 2000 which I also enjoy because I like to see Clive groom as the driver in the landslide scene and where takes the train out and then Bobby's daddy appears from the steam and she runs up shouting its my daddy my daddy my daddy before give the poor man a big hug
@@lukeslocomotives I don't actually know him but I did have him as my instructor for a footplate experience in 06 and I have seen him at amberley museum when I've been there for volunteering and he was a visitor. There was a BBC documentary on him and his family about 10 years ago called the real railway children. But I haven't heard anything about him for about 5 years
I appreciate the video since I had not realized there are 3 versions. I'm also grateful it wasn't an unnecessary hour long video like many, succinct and quick, perfect!
I remember when they came to the Toronto round house for the Canadian production of the play and was blown away by how large the set was for a temporary theatre.
The Titfield Thunderbolt and the Railway Children (1970) are, imo, the two most contested films for which is better amongst railway circles so it was really cool to see this GTI. Really good work as always Chris
There’s still no winner. Railway Children is a great family film but Titfield is an enthusiast’s comedy classic. I love both, but have a slight nostalgic bias for Titfield.
I believe I saw the 2000 version last year. I had just watched a review of a model version of the GWR 5700 or whatever it’s called and wanted to watch the movie
Definitely the 1970 film, mainly because of the association with Christmas as a child. Also I feel it has the most charm and warmth of the adaptations.
23 years ago I started a website entitled "Edith Nesbit and The Railway Children". I covered all the TV and radio adaptions, different book releases and of course the 1970 film. I even purchased a first edition copy of the book as seen in this video. My wife used to take the micky out of me and pretend that Jenny Agutter was on the phone until one fateful Sunday morning in 1999 when she really was on the phone! Apparently the Director of what was to be Carlton TV's new 2000 adaption had come across my website and thought it would be a good idea to get me involved. I was lucky enough, (as the Bluebell Railway is very close to me) to be able to go on set and witness some filming and to interview the three children, Jemima, Jack and Claire. I also met Gregor Fischer and Richard Attenborough. I had a beautifully illustrated copy of the book which I got all the cast and crew to sign. Then I was invited up to London to interview Jenny Agutter and she was lovely, so natural and friendly and interested in what I was doing. I had been asked to take my first edition book and Jenny was photographed in costume holding the book, the resulting photo being used for the "Radio Times" magazine. Jenny became a Patron of the website and we met several times after that and we were both responsible for arranging a "Railway Children" day on the Bluebell Railway to coincide with the release of the 2000 adaption. It was somewhat hijacked by the Bluebell Railway management but who cares! Jenny always seemed to put me first even above the actual Carlton TV interviewers, (much to their chagrin!). We remained friends for a couple of years after that but as with all things it ran it's course and three years later I closed the website down even though I had over 20,000 visitors from all over the world, (especially Japan!). I did a couple of charity walks with Jenny too and can honestly say that she is the real deal, no aires and graces about her, at least not with me though I have seen her cut a few people short if they got a bit presumptuous! For me, you can't beat the book but the 1970 film has the charm and feel of the novel where the 2000 adaption is more faithful to the original novel. I've not seen the new "Return of the Railway Children", some say its good, some say its bad but I wonder if it stacks up to the two sequels that I've read in the past, one reasonable and one quite brilliant but was never released, I was given permission to reproduce it on the website in full and I think I might still have the file somewhere... Both of the sequels that I have read were set during WW2 too! I have read seen and heard the "Daddy, My Daddy" scene hundreds of times and it still makes my eyes leak!...
After reading the book when I was 10 and then watching both the 1970 and 2000 adaptations, I also went to see the production at king's cross. Some parts were fabulous, I loved the use of hand pushed karts to convey travelling along and the loco at the end is just how I imagined it, but it didn't give me the authentic feel good family vibe that the book and both films had.
on the subject of location, I'm sure the book implies they are within commuting distance of London still, rather than all the way up in the north so in some ways the Bluebell was a more suitable location I guess. It's interesting how many people think the station in the book is also Oakworth because it was never changed for the 1970 film
I have seen the 1970 version on the french TV ages ago, it's still in my mind as something british TV and film makes the best : children's stories. The 2000 version seems pretty nice, I had not seen it, but I can recommend the 1970 film version, a well-filmed good story for all ages that had becomes a classic.
Locomotives or carriages being out place due to the region, time period or colour scheme being wrong is one thing, but to me it always seemed so blatantly obvious whenever their was a scene that involved a factory it's always in a pumping station.
As many other commentators have already said - you can't beat Jeffries's 1970 movie (which, incidentally he not only directed but also wrote the script.).
I'll be honest, I never really read or watched the railway children, though in my younger days I did read a series with a somewhat similar premise called the Boxcar Children. If I recall correctly it's a story where three kids have fallen on hard times and wind up making an old worn out boxcar sitting on a forgotten siding their house. I remember it always irked me back then that the thing never went anywhere. As for getting the warm and fuzzies, I recently viewed a little stop motion film here on youtube entitled "Juniper Junction", definitely worth your time in my opinion.
The general perception is that the Railway Children book is set in Yorkshire. There is good historical evidence however that Edith Nesbit used the Midland line station at Strines in Derbyshire as the setting. She was a frequent visitor to her relatives in the area. Some of her other books were set in New Mills the main town down the line. And there actually is a cottage called 'Three chimneys' in the hills above the line. There are lots of other tie ins to the area detailed in a book available from the local information centre. Material for a future video perhaps?
I greatly enjoyed seeing Clive Groom "perform" in the later adaptation. The Jeffrey's production is the definitive one for me. I think it just does a nicer job of setting the period, from the shots of the London house to the model locomotive (even as a child watching the ITV version I immediately thought "thats a Roundhouse Katie"). Also is it wrong that I think the L&YR A looks really good in green? Even the pannier looks quite smart.
Having seen both the 1970 version and the 2000 version, I can honestly say after reading the book that the 2000 version is my preferred favourite. As you rightly pointed out, a lot of the scenes in the 2000 version were adapted almost straight from the book whereas the 1970 version made a number of changes, which I can only imagine were due to budget constraints. On top of that, I could never find myself rooting for the 1970 children. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure they were only acting the way they were told to, but the 1970 version seemed to start the trend of the "Tim Burton child actors" if that makes sense. In contrast, the children in the 2000 version spoke and acted like real children (Probably because they were at the time) they got happy, angry, cried, laughed and just generally displayed the kind of childlike demeanour you'd expect from this story. Whereas the 1970's children seemed completely deadpan and uninteresting. Admittedly I also prefer the idea of using many different locomotives instead of the exact same pannier tank for Every. Single. Scene. Mixing up the locomotives on screen gave you the impression of a real working Edwardian Railway. But in defence of the 1970 version, their budget was probably a little more constrained, as well as filming taking place in the early days of railway preservation, so not a lot of variety was likely available. All in all, 2000 version strikes best with me personally
I’ve seen part of the 2000 version on television when I was young in the United States on masterpiece theaters. Had the chance to rewatch it again here. I have yet to watch the 1970 version which is hard to find so I can compare the two versions. It’s like comparing two film adaptations that are unique based on iconic scenes or being faithful to the original book. I like the 2000 version, but I can’t decide without watching the 1970 version. So, yeah. But good review on the three adaptations. I didn’t know there was an earlier version. I’m not surprised as to why it was never mentioned.
Read the book, still haven't seen any of the adaptations. I think the later 2 might be the ones to look forward to the most from what I'm hearing #RIPRichardAttenborough
Thus far the only version I've seen has been the 2000 Carlton version, and that was several years ago. Thinking back, I remember being of two minds about it. On the one hand, some aspects of the story, such as the surprise cabride and saving the Old Gentleman's train from the landslide were captivating, and I have to credit this film with some of my early love for the Bluebell Railway. On the other hand, it may have been the curse of youth, but I recall vast stretches of the film that weren't centered on the railway to be intolerably boring, and even my parents felt the film lacked a very solid plot, feeling more like a series of vignettes, things that happened rather than a fully structured story with a beginning-middle-end. I don't make any claims to the validity of this criticism, only that that's what we felt at the time.
Both of the latter versions have merit but because I saw the 1970 version in my later youth, it holds a sentimental place in my heart. My father died when I was two (I am 72 now) and I always secretly hoped that it was some sort of tragic mistake and that he might magically reappear. I never told my mother. The scene during which Bobbie ends up at the train station in the 1970 version and the train stops and then her father materializes out of the steam never fails to make me break down into a blubbering mess. Daddy! My daddy! does it every time. So … I guess I have to say that the 2970 version gets my vote but, that being said, E. Nesbit’s canon of work is something everyone should delve into for the sheer pleasure of her approach to intelligent children encountering magical adventures. Read the books!
Hey Chris, I’m looking forward to purchasing at least a few of you products for the Hollidays, but I don’t think you’ve ever Mentioned how your customers receive you documentary’s. Do I get a download link? Do I get a C-D? Can you please get back to me.
Hi I've often mentioned before that I sell both DVDs and Digital Downloads. They are listed on my website under appropriate categories. Most episodes of SLIPs are available on either format. The only expections being the Narrow Gauge/Overseas specials only available as DVD extras. The Downloads come with a link that allows you to download a Zip file containing the film and a Copyright Disclosure. My apologies if they haven't seemed clear before. I have tried promoting them as much as I can without coming across as obnoxious. I hope this helps.
I have read the original book before and I thought it was quite heartwarming and nice. For the adaptations, I've only seen the 2000 version twice so far. I might have to watch the 1970 version of the film one day (and from what I've heard, they're planning to make a sequel to that of the 1970 film itself).
I saw the theatre version at King's Cross in 2011. It was amazing seeing the original Eurostar terminus turned into a Victorian station. The 2000 version of the movie was alright (I can happily watch it any day), but as a Yorkshireman, I prefer the 1970 version.
hi chris grate show. love all your work and episodes on hear. ive seen all 3 films and out of all 3 my favourite is the newest one. Also this is not a request but what if you did 1 of your episodes on my little local the R.H.&.D.R ? its full of history but ofton gets overlooked because its just 1/3 size. agen just an idear not a request. keep up your grate work. I always enjoy your videos.
Living in America, I sadly haven’t had the chance to ever watch The Railway Children. I didn’t even know about it until just a few years back, and I just haven’t gotten around to watching it. Some railfan I am eh? Anyway, I think this year might just be the year to give it a watch. The 70s one obviously, since I’m a sucker for the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.
1970 version cos I was 8 and that sets the bar very high. The bluebell version seemed slightly pointless as the 70 film is really pretty perfect. Also it seemed darker and more gloomy, from memory. I’ve not seen it twice. Cribbins as Perks is great;” Perks must be about it!” But that’s just my opinion Thanks for this one Chris. Seasons greetings to you!
Coming from a Bluebell representative, that's a pretty bold statement Martin! But yeah, I can see why you feel the way that you do. I hope you're keeping as well as you can in these insane times.
@@ChristheXelent nothing to do with the blue bell per say. ( I know you didn’t mean that!) but I think you’re right, the Keighley establishes the northern credentials and the contrast from the Home Counties to the northern fells is more marked than soft Sussex greenery. And I feel that when you’ve got a version that nails it , the ladykillers, King Kong and others remaking a classic is never going to go well, it’ll always be compared and if you grew up with something the imposter is going to regarded with a little suspicion and be judged harder. I’ve heard sally thomsett talking about the filming and going into Leeds and getting bladdered!
As a friendly warning to anyone who hasn’t yet watched the 2022 “sequel”: if you like the classic 1970s film, you may be disappointed. The Railway Children Return only sees the return of Bobbie; Phyllis is mentioned once and Peter is just dead (as is the hound in the red jersey if Bobbie actually married him). There are few connections to the original film, so it’s a very poor sequel. It is good if you’re looking for a 1940s war adventure story that happens to feature a railway however.
1970 version for me every time ... as Chris himself seems to imply this adaptation is the best. I remember the very first version (predating the 1968 production), on BBC - I think in the late 1950s - but it wasn't as memorable as the 1970 one. Well done Jenny Agutter for being in all 3 versions.
I was first introduced to _The Railway Children_ when I first saw the 2000 adaptation when I borrowed it from the Spanish Fork Library, and so far is the only one I've ever seen. But for me, it's my favorite adaptation and the engines and rolling stock used on the Bluebell Railway (including the visiting engine _Maude_ ) are pretty accurate for the kind of trains that operated in the era the story takes place.
I can vaguely remember the earlier tv “lost” adaptation, but for me it’s 1970 each time.
I’ve only got into the story quite recently, but I’ve quickly fallen in love with the 1970 film. Everything about it works very well: the casting is on point, the locos have a unique charm, the score is great and all the emotional moments work extremely well. In particular I love the landslide scene and the ochre Pannier (which really should stay in that livery).
A little bit of sadness on the side of this story: I got into the film properly just over a month before Bernard Cribbins’ tragic passing. That doesn’t stop me from loving the film though.
It was sad news to hear the news Bernard Cribbins past away ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤🇬🇧😥
The 2000 version is my favorite!
Gary Warren used to run a stall on my local market,not so long ago.
Does he know that they killed his character offscreen in the “sequel”?
I remember visiting the Bluebell Railway around the time they were filming. Very surreal experience seeing everything lettered up for the GN&SR. Although it slightly ruins the magic when you steam past the landslide and see that it's a trolley on rails.
I build and supplied the props for Peter's Toy Engine that was used in the stage versions of the story performed at Waterloo, King's Cross and in Canada. The locomotives are heaviliy modified Mamod locomotives from my 16mm railway. Loved the story since I was very young. Even now my daughters if I meet them at a station can be prone to a bit of "Daddy, my Daddy" on the platform!. The original prop was a 3 1/2" gauge locomotive but none of the cast could lift it!
how did your engine end up appearing in the stage production? i hope it didn't really blow up
@@eliotreader8220 A fellow member of the yacht club was appearing and asked if I had anything suitable as the prop they had bought was too heavy. They'd borrowed a 3 1/2" gaued loco (think it was Titch) but the actors couldnt manage it. I rebuilt the Mamod so that an obvious compnent could fall off.
You can’t beat the 1970 one. Absolute classic.
"PAX" - Peter
Absolutely! The 1970 version I will always hold near and dear to my heart!
The 1968 version is better imo. The cast are closer to the ages of the characters. And Nesbit tended to write in a serialised way which suits a series.
the guy who played Peter 17 flipping heck!
There was one in the 1950s with one of the GER 2-4-0 locomotives (62793) used. Presumably on location somewhere in East Anglia.
There was. But little (if any) of it has survived, owing to television being seen as a short-term medium back then
I love the 1970 version, I watched countless times when I was a kid. As for the plays I saw the 2009 show at Waterloo station and then the one at King’s cross station
R.I.P Richard Attenborough.
⛪⚰️✝️➕💐😢🇬🇧👑⚔️🏰
I remember seeing the 1970 version at the cinema when I was about 8. It was a typical school holiday audience: mothers and children. I think everyone was crying at the famous final scene on the platform.
Last Christmas I noted that the same suburban cinema was screening the film for the school holidays. And the same crowds of children, with their mothers - and some fathers too - were streaming in. There's nothing like a classic.
Iv seen both films but not all of the tv series. The 1970 film staring Jenny Agutter, Sally Thomsett, Bernard Cribbins & Dinah Sheridan is my favourite.
Chris is one of those people that makes a crap year sting a little less.
That's really kind of you to say so. Thank you
Anytime, Chris!
My Favourite Version Of The Railway Children is definitely the 1970 Adaptation
Definitely the 1970 adaptation, plain and simple because it was the one I grew up watching and the one that stuck in my mind.
I love the railway children
1970s version is the best to me and one of my favourite films.
Also saw a recorded performance of the theatre show when it was at the railway museum which was very fun to watch!
1970 version is the iconic one for me: Jenny+KWVR+Yorkshire scenery and wit, and the fact that YOU can go there and experience Oakworth station just as it was in the film. However I have watched and enjoyed them all and are very much looking forward to the new one currently being filmed on the KWVR. Jenny Agutter was in all three versions so weaves a continuity element. Will she play a role in the new version too? I do hope so, even if only a cameo. I actually met her, on a walk, in May 2005, on the KWVR and it was a real honour, such a talented and lovely actress, and she even taught me a few things about posing for photos.
Thank you Chris.
Funny thing, just found a copy of the 2000 version on the doormat.
Love the original one, had such a great cast , absolutely loved Bernard Cribbins . The Yorkshire countryside , and the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, it’s one of my favourite places to visit. It also had the best bits of humour in it too. Sadly the newer sequel hasn’t lived up to my expectations at all. I’d read the book and thought it was a great storyline, unfortunately it wasn’t followed.
Hi Chris, the M&GN re-traced DVD arrived today, I watched it and I have enjoyed everything covered. Although I have a good outline of knowledge of the M&GN, I still found it shocking when you qualified on a map of the remains of the M&GN. I was very happy when I was told you'd be coming to Whitwell to do some filming and I feel you've given us some light which we've been in need of for some time. I'm glad you and your partner enjoyed yourself's with us, it has given us a boost to keep doing what we're doing.
So thank you
Tom
I've only seen the 2000 adaption.
When I watch 2000 as kid and saw Richard Attenborough going away on the train I fought he was going to run his dinosaur park, I am not kidding!
The 1970 one I got my Bachmann pack after seeing it
At 80 years old I have seen all versions including the 1950s one , which I assume is “lost”. I have enjoyed all in their various ways and look forward to the 2022 remake. Just great entertainment for all ages!!
in the list of heritage steam railways that could not run trains this year is the charming Launeston steam railway in Cornwall
The second movie was my first experience in watching and learning about The Railway Children and it still holds as being my favourite film adaptation version.
I've only seen the 2000 version and I loved it. My son when he was younger and obsessed with trains loved the film as well. I'd love to see the 1970 version.
4:01 - My favourite part of them all, with some slightly over-enthusiastic flag waving from 'Mr Mitchell' himself... :D
In all seriousness though, long live the Lionel Jefferies version. Certainly gets better with age; grand casting, memorable performances, and of course, the superb classic location of the KWVR.
Didn't mind the 2000 version either. (Incidentally, Bluebell driver Clive Groom who pops up here and there, was and still is, a footplate legend!)
Top work once again Chris, and an early Merry Xmas to you too!
My parents and I have the dvd copy of The Railway Children 1970.
I haven't seen The Railway Children in all adaptations or read the original novel. Might be since I'm a Yank.
I'm American, too, but luckily I found the original book on clearance at a bookstore.
I’m from America and I’ve read the book and seen all three adaptations, that’s not really a good excuse.
Always a pleasure when Chris uploads!
It's always a good day when chris uploads
Oh, definitely!
Here, here.
It took a while for the 2000 version to endear itself to me, but it got there...so I can honestly say the 1970 and 2000 hold an equal place in my heart...and I still fancy Jenny Agutter something chronic.
I will always remember the 2000 adaptation as starring "Baby Ingrid" (playing Phyllis in this adaptation) . The actress taking the role of Ingrid Dracula many years later in the cbbc series Yopung Dracula.
Never seen any of the films or the stage productions, but in 2011 they put it on in Toronto and brought an LSWR T3 over, I'm still angry I wasn't able to make it up there while it was still there.
I know what you mean. I was actually in London in 2010 when they held the live performance at the Eurostar terminal at Waterloo Station with the Stirling Single, but I only learned about it they day before I was due to fly home to Texas, with no time to get out there or buy a ticket. I certainly was grumpy about that.
I saw the 1970 version and I have seen the Pannier up close and personal at Oxenhope.
I like the 1970 one the most because it is a classic
These films prompted my interest in model railroading. Now Hornby, Dapol, Bachmann, Hatton's, Rails and C E-G, etc are familiar names. Too bad none of the heritage railways run to Florida.
It's great to see you finally tackle arguably the most famous "railway story" of them all aside from the blue one and MotOE. The 1970 film has always been a must watch whenever I see it's on, and is one of my favourite films of all time. Screw the wibble over inauthentic liveries, that was back when preservation could have a bit of fun, and I think it's awesome both the Pannier and now the Ironclad have been returned to their film colours. Sadly, I haven't seen either of the other screen adaptations, though I have read the book and saw the version of the theatre production that was filmed at York with the Pannier and released in cinemas.
What is MotOE?
@@the4tierbridge Murder on the Orient Express.
I have the 70s one which I enjoy time time again. And I also have 2000 which I also enjoy because I like to see Clive groom as the driver in the landslide scene and where takes the train out and then Bobby's daddy appears from the steam and she runs up shouting its my daddy my daddy my daddy before give the poor man a big hug
Iv not heard anything about Clive since that movie. Any idea how hes doing?
@@lukeslocomotives I don't actually know him but I did have him as my instructor for a footplate experience in 06 and I have seen him at amberley museum when I've been there for volunteering and he was a visitor. There was a BBC documentary on him and his family about 10 years ago called the real railway children. But I haven't heard anything about him for about 5 years
I appreciate the video since I had not realized there are 3 versions. I'm also grateful it wasn't an unnecessary hour long video like many, succinct and quick, perfect!
I remember when they came to the Toronto round house for the Canadian production of the play and was blown away by how large the set was for a temporary theatre.
The Titfield Thunderbolt and the Railway Children (1970) are, imo, the two most contested films for which is better amongst railway circles so it was really cool to see this GTI. Really good work as always Chris
There’s still no winner. Railway Children is a great family film but Titfield is an enthusiast’s comedy classic. I love both, but have a slight nostalgic bias for Titfield.
The 1970 version was called the best film ever made by the late great Barry Norman.
I believe I saw the 2000 version last year. I had just watched a review of a model version of the GWR 5700 or whatever it’s called and wanted to watch the movie
beautiful video chris and well i grew up watching both films and the both always make me smile
I watched the 2000’s movie for the first time a few months ago and I thought it was great
Love this one, an excellent video to watch after a hard day at work
I read this book as a kid.
Always was a fan of the 1970 adaptation as was my mother.
I've never seen any of the movie adaptations but I did read the book when I was little
Definitely the 1970 film, mainly because of the association with Christmas as a child. Also I feel it has the most charm and warmth of the adaptations.
I have rode in the carriage from the 70s film and sat in the gentleman's seat at Barrow Hill a few years ago...
The carriage has a kitchen!
23 years ago I started a website entitled "Edith Nesbit and The Railway Children".
I covered all the TV and radio adaptions, different book releases and of course the 1970 film. I even purchased a first edition copy of the book as seen in this video.
My wife used to take the micky out of me and pretend that Jenny Agutter was on the phone until one fateful Sunday morning in 1999 when she really was on the phone! Apparently the Director of what was to be Carlton TV's new 2000 adaption had come across my website and thought it would be a good idea to get me involved. I was lucky enough, (as the Bluebell Railway is very close to me) to be able to go on set and witness some filming and to interview the three children, Jemima, Jack and Claire. I also met Gregor Fischer and Richard Attenborough. I had a beautifully illustrated copy of the book which I got all the cast and crew to sign.
Then I was invited up to London to interview Jenny Agutter and she was lovely, so natural and friendly and interested in what I was doing. I had been asked to take my first edition book and Jenny was photographed in costume holding the book, the resulting photo being used for the "Radio Times" magazine. Jenny became a Patron of the website and we met several times after that and we were both responsible for arranging a "Railway Children" day on the Bluebell Railway to coincide with the release of the 2000 adaption. It was somewhat hijacked by the Bluebell Railway management but who cares! Jenny always seemed to put me first even above the actual Carlton TV interviewers, (much to their chagrin!). We remained friends for a couple of years after that but as with all things it ran it's course and three years later I closed the website down even though I had over 20,000 visitors from all over the world, (especially Japan!). I did a couple of charity walks with Jenny too and can honestly say that she is the real deal, no aires and graces about her, at least not with me though I have seen her cut a few people short if they got a bit presumptuous!
For me, you can't beat the book but the 1970 film has the charm and feel of the novel where the 2000 adaption is more faithful to the original novel. I've not seen the new "Return of the Railway Children", some say its good, some say its bad but I wonder if it stacks up to the two sequels that I've read in the past, one reasonable and one quite brilliant but was never released, I was given permission to reproduce it on the website in full and I think I might still have the file somewhere... Both of the sequels that I have read were set during WW2 too!
I have read seen and heard the "Daddy, My Daddy" scene hundreds of times and it still makes my eyes leak!...
After reading the book when I was 10 and then watching both the 1970 and 2000 adaptations, I also went to see the production at king's cross. Some parts were fabulous, I loved the use of hand pushed karts to convey travelling along and the loco at the end is just how I imagined it, but it didn't give me the authentic feel good family vibe that the book and both films had.
Until today. I had never heard of the Railway children. I am going to seek out the 1970 and 2000 versions and the book. Cherio.
The railway children is a great movie
As an ardent GWR fan, Sroudley Improved engine Green(or yellow to you and I) is still the best livery ever carried by a GWR machine
I will stand by this. I hope it remains in that livery after its overhaul.
Very enjoyable video and well presented.
on the subject of location, I'm sure the book implies they are within commuting distance of London still, rather than all the way up in the north so in some ways the Bluebell was a more suitable location I guess. It's interesting how many people think the station in the book is also Oakworth because it was never changed for the 1970 film
Yes the new intro!!!!
I have seen the 1970 version on the french TV ages ago, it's still in my mind as something british TV and film makes the best : children's stories. The 2000 version seems pretty nice, I had not seen it, but I can recommend the 1970 film version, a well-filmed good story for all ages that had becomes a classic.
i've only seen the 1970's one
Locomotives or carriages being out place due to the region, time period or colour scheme being wrong is one thing, but to me it always seemed so blatantly obvious whenever their was a scene that involved a factory it's always in a pumping station.
As many other commentators have already said - you can't beat Jeffries's 1970 movie (which, incidentally he not only directed but also wrote the script.).
I'll be honest, I never really read or watched the railway children, though in my younger days I did read a series with a somewhat similar premise called the Boxcar Children. If I recall correctly it's a story where three kids have fallen on hard times and wind up making an old worn out boxcar sitting on a forgotten siding their house. I remember it always irked me back then that the thing never went anywhere.
As for getting the warm and fuzzies, I recently viewed a little stop motion film here on youtube entitled "Juniper Junction", definitely worth your time in my opinion.
The general perception is that the Railway Children book is set in Yorkshire. There is good historical evidence however that Edith Nesbit used the Midland line station at Strines in Derbyshire as the setting. She was a frequent visitor to her relatives in the area. Some of her other books were set in New Mills the main town down the line. And there actually is a cottage called 'Three chimneys' in the hills above the line. There are lots of other tie ins to the area detailed in a book available from the local information centre. Material for a future video perhaps?
I saw the play at King's Cross Station.
I've only seen the 1970 version once
I greatly enjoyed seeing Clive Groom "perform" in the later adaptation. The Jeffrey's production is the definitive one for me. I think it just does a nicer job of setting the period, from the shots of the London house to the model locomotive (even as a child watching the ITV version I immediately thought "thats a Roundhouse Katie").
Also is it wrong that I think the L&YR A looks really good in green? Even the pannier looks quite smart.
The 1970 one was the best
Having seen both the 1970 version and the 2000 version, I can honestly say after reading the book that the 2000 version is my preferred favourite. As you rightly pointed out, a lot of the scenes in the 2000 version were adapted almost straight from the book whereas the 1970 version made a number of changes, which I can only imagine were due to budget constraints.
On top of that, I could never find myself rooting for the 1970 children. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure they were only acting the way they were told to, but the 1970 version seemed to start the trend of the "Tim Burton child actors" if that makes sense. In contrast, the children in the 2000 version spoke and acted like real children (Probably because they were at the time) they got happy, angry, cried, laughed and just generally displayed the kind of childlike demeanour you'd expect from this story. Whereas the 1970's children seemed completely deadpan and uninteresting.
Admittedly I also prefer the idea of using many different locomotives instead of the exact same pannier tank for Every. Single. Scene. Mixing up the locomotives on screen gave you the impression of a real working Edwardian Railway. But in defence of the 1970 version, their budget was probably a little more constrained, as well as filming taking place in the early days of railway preservation, so not a lot of variety was likely available.
All in all, 2000 version strikes best with me personally
I thought Swanage were doing steam in lights? I've seen photos of the U out for it?
Hey Chris, this was a really good video. I really liked the one made in 1970 really enjoyable one.
I seen news on the Keighley and worth valley railway website that theirs a new version of the railway children in the works.
I’ve seen part of the 2000 version on television when I was young in the United States on masterpiece theaters. Had the chance to rewatch it again here. I have yet to watch the 1970 version which is hard to find so I can compare the two versions. It’s like comparing two film adaptations that are unique based on iconic scenes or being faithful to the original book. I like the 2000 version, but I can’t decide without watching the 1970 version. So, yeah. But good review on the three adaptations. I didn’t know there was an earlier version. I’m not surprised as to why it was never mentioned.
Read the book, still haven't seen any of the adaptations. I think the later 2 might be the ones to look forward to the most from what I'm hearing
#RIPRichardAttenborough
Thus far the only version I've seen has been the 2000 Carlton version, and that was several years ago. Thinking back, I remember being of two minds about it. On the one hand, some aspects of the story, such as the surprise cabride and saving the Old Gentleman's train from the landslide were captivating, and I have to credit this film with some of my early love for the Bluebell Railway. On the other hand, it may have been the curse of youth, but I recall vast stretches of the film that weren't centered on the railway to be intolerably boring, and even my parents felt the film lacked a very solid plot, feeling more like a series of vignettes, things that happened rather than a fully structured story with a beginning-middle-end. I don't make any claims to the validity of this criticism, only that that's what we felt at the time.
Both of the latter versions have merit but because I saw the 1970 version in my later youth, it holds a sentimental place in my heart. My father died when I was two (I am 72 now) and I always secretly hoped that it was some sort of tragic mistake and that he might magically reappear. I never told my mother. The scene during which Bobbie ends up at the train station in the 1970 version and the train stops and then her father materializes out of the steam never fails to make me break down into a blubbering mess. Daddy! My daddy! does it every time. So … I guess I have to say that the 2970 version gets my vote but, that being said, E. Nesbit’s canon of work is something everyone should delve into for the sheer pleasure of her approach to intelligent children encountering magical adventures. Read the books!
The first film (1970), why? The landscape looks more northern .
2:30 yes I can assure you that is true
The SECR C class was a regular performer on passenger workings, even on occasion they would take a turn at a semi-fast or even a fast.
Hey Chris, I’m looking forward to purchasing at least a few of you products for the Hollidays, but I don’t think you’ve ever Mentioned how your customers receive you documentary’s. Do I get a download link? Do I get a C-D?
Can you please get back to me.
Hi
I've often mentioned before that I sell both DVDs and Digital Downloads. They are listed on my website under appropriate categories.
Most episodes of SLIPs are available on either format. The only expections being the Narrow Gauge/Overseas specials only available as DVD extras.
The Downloads come with a link that allows you to download a Zip file containing the film and a Copyright Disclosure.
My apologies if they haven't seemed clear before. I have tried promoting them as much as I can without coming across as obnoxious.
I hope this helps.
Didnt the 70s one come out on the 21st of December? I feel sorry for the ironclad s owners they wanted it running for the 21st :/
I have read the original book before and I thought it was quite heartwarming and nice. For the adaptations, I've only seen the 2000 version twice so far. I might have to watch the 1970 version of the film one day (and from what I've heard, they're planning to make a sequel to that of the 1970 film itself).
I saw the theatre version at King's Cross in 2011. It was amazing seeing the original Eurostar terminus turned into a Victorian station. The 2000 version of the movie was alright (I can happily watch it any day), but as a Yorkshireman, I prefer the 1970 version.
hi chris grate show. love all your work and episodes on hear. ive seen
all 3 films and out of all 3 my favourite is the newest one. Also this
is not a request but what if you did 1 of your episodes on my little
local the R.H.&.D.R ? its full of history but ofton gets overlooked
because its just 1/3 size. agen just an idear not a request. keep up
your grate work. I always enjoy your videos.
Living in America, I sadly haven’t had the chance to ever watch The Railway Children. I didn’t even know about it until just a few years back, and I just haven’t gotten around to watching it. Some railfan I am eh? Anyway, I think this year might just be the year to give it a watch. The 70s one obviously, since I’m a sucker for the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.
1970 version cos I was 8 and that sets the bar very high. The bluebell version seemed slightly pointless as the 70 film is really pretty perfect. Also it seemed darker and more gloomy, from memory. I’ve not seen it twice. Cribbins as Perks is great;” Perks must be about it!” But that’s just my opinion
Thanks for this one Chris.
Seasons greetings to you!
Coming from a Bluebell representative, that's a pretty bold statement Martin!
But yeah, I can see why you feel the way that you do. I hope you're keeping as well as you can in these insane times.
@@ChristheXelent nothing to do with the blue bell per say. ( I know you didn’t mean that!) but I think you’re right, the Keighley establishes the northern credentials and the contrast from the Home Counties to the northern fells is more marked than soft Sussex greenery. And I feel that when you’ve got a version that nails it , the ladykillers, King Kong and others remaking a classic is never going to go well, it’ll always be compared and if you grew up with something the imposter is going to regarded with a little suspicion and be judged harder. I’ve heard sally thomsett talking about the filming and going into Leeds and getting bladdered!
As a friendly warning to anyone who hasn’t yet watched the 2022 “sequel”: if you like the classic 1970s film, you may be disappointed. The Railway Children Return only sees the return of Bobbie; Phyllis is mentioned once and Peter is just dead (as is the hound in the red jersey if Bobbie actually married him). There are few connections to the original film, so it’s a very poor sequel. It is good if you’re looking for a 1940s war adventure story that happens to feature a railway however.
woohoo!!! a new vid!!!
i wonder what the new railway children is going to be like. its coming out next year.
1970 version for me every time ... as Chris himself seems to imply this adaptation is the best. I remember the very first version (predating the 1968 production), on BBC - I think in the late 1950s - but it wasn't as memorable as the 1970 one. Well done Jenny Agutter for being in all 3 versions.
I was first introduced to _The Railway Children_ when I first saw the 2000 adaptation when I borrowed it from the Spanish Fork Library, and so far is the only one I've ever seen. But for me, it's my favorite adaptation and the engines and rolling stock used on the Bluebell Railway (including the visiting engine _Maude_ ) are pretty accurate for the kind of trains that operated in the era the story takes place.
neat
I've seen the 2000 film.
As a fan of Jenny Agutter, I've seen all three.