Common Sense Media Review
By Renee Schonfeld
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Entertaining train tale with mild peril, positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Thomas & Friends: The Great Race
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 1 parent review
What's the Story?
Sir Topham Hat and all the trains on Sodor Island are looking forward to a special day on the mainland in THOMAS & FRIENDS: THE GREAT RACE. Upcoming is an event during which the mainland will host trains from all over the world as they parade and compete in various contests (shunting, strength, speed). All the engines on Sodor are practicing, getting spruced up, and hoping to be one of the lucky trains Sir Topham Hat chooses to join the fun. Unfortunately for Thomas ( voiced by Joseph May in the American release), he hasn't quite figured out which event he's best suited for, and he gets in just enough trouble to be left behind. That is, until it's discovered that impatient Gordon, the strongest locomotive on Sodor, has left the island before his final safety check and the installation of a vital valve. Thomas makes a mad dash from Sodor to the mainland, hoping to warn his friend before a catastrophe occurs.
Is It Any Good?
Old and new fans will enjoy this traditional Thomas tale with a sincere lesson about "being yourself" at its heart, and which includes a more diverse cast than usual (both female and international). Ashima (Tina Desai), a decorated steam engine from India, provides a strong, relatable character for girls. Thomas & Friends: The Great Race introduces several hit-and-miss original songs, all of which bolster the characterizations and the messages expressed. There's enough conflict (lamentably, the most loutish bully in the group of contestants is an American) and mild suspense to hold the interest of kids even older than its intended preschool audience. Entertaining and gently instructive, it's a typically simple Thomas & Friends story that won't disappoint.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what Thomas learned about "being himself" in Thomas & Friends: The Great Race. His abilities at "shunting" make him special and useful. What makes you special? What do you do that is useful and helpful to others?
Philip tells Thomas that, "You can do anything you want to, if you just put your mind to it." What does he mean? Can you think of something you've accomplished that makes this true for you?
Why were Thomas and Ashima both winners? What did each of them do to earn their awards? Everyone doesn't get an actual prize for doing his or her best, but how does a job well done make you feel about yourself?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: September 13, 2016
- Cast: Joseph May , Tina Desai , Keith Wickham
- Director: David Stoten
- Studio: HIT Entertainment
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Friendship , Trains
- Run time: 61 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: September 12, 2022
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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