10 MORE Hidden Gems of CGI Thomas

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[@DanGamingFan2406]

"Thomas and the Royal Engine" really does feel like a proper (essentially) series finale. Every reference and callback fits seamlessly and you can tell the writer was passionate about the entire history of Thomas, books, model series, all of it. And to think, this was a BWBA episode. It just makes it stand out alm the more.

[@watershipup7101]

Agreed

[@BH-98]

Even though the BWBA era killed the show at least it ended it’s nearly 40 year run on a high note

[@becdoesyoutube]

Thomas' Animal Friends may have been the last OG continuity episode aired on TV, but for my money's worth, Royal Engine will ALWAYS be the TTTE series finale.

[@buzzytrombone4353]

As much as I like it as it is, I still keep wondering how it would have faired if it was an hour long and it’s ending had Thomas and The Fat Controller come home and be welcomed back by everyone at Knapford Station.

[@Thomasmemoryscentral]

Kind of reminds me how messy the way TMNT 2012 ended. They had a what if apocalypse arc that is non canon but that aired after the final episode that is another crossover special with the 1987 turtles@@becdoesyoutube

[@anrisak2596]

Thank the Lord this channel still exists despite its trouble. Please continue it Tug. Huge thanks

[@TheUndeadHooligan]

Wait, what trouble?

[@XleeHS]

dawg

[@FajreroCintilo]

​​@@TheUndeadHooliganthis is the second channel. The original was banned for copyright. The first video on this channel explains it

[@Noah-ey5zf]

I am so confused as if right now?? There has been a total of 3 Unlucky Tug Channels and this is the only one still up so…

[@barneymetcalfe8896]

He’s never dun tuggin’

[@giulianodervelociraptorder734]

“Old Reliable Edward” is an episode that I appreciate more and more. It did so much right. Thomas and Edward: This episode is kind of a sequel to “The Adventure Begins.” In this film, Edward was on Thomas's side even when Gordon and James laughed at Thomas. In this episode, Thomas was the one taking care of Edward. This episode shows how much Thomas cares for Edward aka his stepfather. Edward was great in this one too. And before anyone says “Edward was out of character because he made a big deal about Gordon not saying thank you”. Edward was just annoyed with Gordon because Gordon was an ass to Edward. We also learned from the episode “Cows” that Edward can get annoyed by characters like Gordon and Henry. So Edward was great in this episode. Gordon: Before anyone says the episode retcons Gordon's respect for Edward. My theory would be that the episode "Old Reliable Edward" takes place after season 11 and Gordon has lost his respect after hearing that Edward gave false information about Neville, was mean to Rocky and not to mention had problems with the mail even though he was there Packages would have to have an address. I also like that Gordon had a reason to be mad at Edward. When Gordon got to his mountain he was laughed at by Emily and hoped that Edward would come to push him. However, he was then laughed at by Thomas, which only annoyed Gordon. When Edward came he was just disappointed and that's why he was mean to Edward. And I believe that this episode takes place before the Miller era, which would explain why Gordon had respect for Edward in the Miller era. The climax: A few people have said that Thomas' idea was a bit stupid because his plan could cause the express train to be delayed. However, I completely disagree. The climax only lasts 5-6 minutes. And I'm sure that Gordon, as an LNER A1, can quickly catch up on such a time. I'm also sure that the episode takes place in the summer and the scene where Gordon got stuck between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. on a Sunday. So I think Gordon didn't have many passengers on the express train. And I just love Edward in this scene. A real GigaChad moment for Edward. “Old Reliable Edward” is a beautiful episode. It's not perfect because it has a slow pace, which was also a problem with many episodes from season 18 (at least the pace improved in S19-S21). It shows how much Thomas cares about Edward.

[@TheLazyFusspot_3428]

Really wish we saw more of that cheeky side from Thomas in the cgi era

[@mylittlemusical6168]

Bro really wrote an essay about a Thomas and friends episode

[@Steamteamrailworks88]

Plus this feels like this story takes place after Edward’s Exploit if written for The Railway Series

[@TheLazyFusspot_3428]

@@Steamteamrailworks88 Even if Emily is in it

[@callum110597]

Oh, yeah, "Old Reliable Edward" really brought back Edward's character after series 8-16 incorrectly portrayed him as rude, when he's supposed to be kind but still fairly strict when he needs to be.

[@s.p.d.magentaranger1822]

Old Reliable Edward stole my heart with Thomas's Batman Gambit, very classic. Really glad we have 2 of these videos now. Makes me feel good about flying the flag for CGI.

[@sandrahwu]

Another point in favor of Old Reliable Edward: Edward has a strong sense of self-confidence, which is refreshing considering how he was written in the HIT era. He doesn’t wallow in despair and self-pity at any point. No, he’s rather just peeved about the whole ordeal, and just wants to be appreciated for his hard work. Edward retains his wisdom. He understands that you can only be you, not what others think of you.

[@vanessasandoval96]

in Edward really useful engine Gordon thought Edward is useless and needed to be retire and in OLD reliable Edward Gordon's grumpiness on Edward trying to help

[@NitroIndigo]

I love the Edward & Gordon segment in The Adventure Begins because it ends with Edward being all like ">:(" because Gordon was ungrateful.

[@visionarylocomotiveworks9703]

Old Reliable Edward was really the episode to convince me Thomas was in good hands again with Brenner & Co. After years and years of the show getting Edward’s personality wrong, this was such a great comeback to the Edward old time fans knew and loved. I love Edward’s sassy little “Sorry?” - that’s by far one of the funniest moments in the CGI era for me.

[@giulianodervelociraptorder734]

This a big W take.

[@kevin-2.1]

I enjoy that episode too, I love that Thomas helps Edward pay Gordon back. And how Edward teasing Gordon of what he said to him, like as a reminder of how he treated him. A lesson Gordon will remember well.

[@s.p.d.magentaranger1822]

We stan sassy Edward.

[@NitroIndigo]

I love it when Edward is sassy, but the only other instance that comes to mind is the ending of "Cows".

[@LouizlheenDamian]

😂

[@emersoninfinitystone5785]

31:50 Sir's reaction here gets me every time. 😂 Season 13's *Tickled Pink* is another underrated gem, in my opinion. It's a neat idea that puts James in a position of rather sympathetic insecurity. He's embarrassed being out in the open exposing his bright pink undercoat to everyone. It's actually a really relatable experience, we've all at some point been in that exact position when, say, we have to go out in public wearing silly clothes or costumes and don't wanna be seen in them; and then inevitably we're laughed at when spotted. Being autistic i relate to James' situation in this story so much. The ending message is also really sweet to, Bridget Hatt revealing to James pink is her favourite colour is a nice reminder that even if you feel uncomfortable having to put yourself through such an insecure ordeal, there are still those who will appreciate you for it. James subconsciously fought against his ego, and though he felt vulnerable he pushed on through to complete an important task, resulting in bringing a smile to a child's face... just beautiful. It's also worth mentioning that i love how the title is a clever in-joke to everyone's reactions when they see James. James is painted pink and everyone can't help themselves laughing, meaning their all quite literally tickled pink to... well played Allan Plenderleith, writer of this episode... well played. Definitely one've the Nitrogen Era's, if not the CGI Series in general's best episodes!. 💗💗💗

[@primrosevale1995]

This episode always warms my heart whenever I think of it because it feels very real because of that insecurity James has. The fact they chose James at all, the engine most obsessed with image, makes him learning to not let others get to him and appreciate those who appreciate him in kind, regardless or even because of the color he's wearing, even that more punctual and satisfying.

[@RhapsodyHC]

Agreed! It’s one of the Nitrogen’s best. And the 3 strike formula is used well because James didn’t make any mistake and learn the lesson like most other Nitrogen episodes. He persisted despite feeling insecure, and in the end he learned that others can like him even when he looks silly.

[@fruitloops2058]

The best Nitrogen episodes are when the engines don't mess up their jobs, I only remember two episodes that did this and they were okay. Wish it happened more

[@immaduck7099]

31:50 "Woohoo! :D" *gasp* *"OURGH!"*

[@ItsCarlos563]

That episode is really good if you ask me.

[@NascarNick2488]

Despite the fact that Sharon Miller wasn’t a great writer for Thomas, I do love how they brought her back in the Royal Engine to voice Queen Elizabeth II.

[@НиколаСтаменковић]

She still much better writer than writers from all engens go.

[@Antluvstrains]

I feel like we don’t give Michael White enough credit for his work in the BWBA era. His episodes are just outstanding.

[@vanessasandoval96]

Did heard about Trainz Adventures of Thomas is way better than AEG and tracks to big adventures

[@ThomasTubeHD]

Michael's episodes are absolutely truly the hidden gems of the BWBA era, they are the first episodes I watched of Season 22 to 24

[@vicviper2005]

He should’ve been the head writer of bwba

[@fanofeverything30465]

​@@vicviper2005Given Mattel's further involvement I doubt that would have made much difference

[@joshuaW5621]

I think we are a little too hard on BWBA sometimes. There is still plenty of stuff to appreciate in BWBA.

[@nateoverthehorizon1176]

Duncan and the grumpy passenger is my favorite cgi Thomas episode, I’ve always tried to make unpleasant people happy and it only seems to make things worse so that episode is incredibly relatable and a really interesting lesson for kids

[@TheLazyFusspot_3428]

Old Reliable Edward is easily Edward and Thomas' best episode together. Edward was just the final straw breaking Gordon's back after Thomas had tricked the big engine on his own hill again like a BOSS. I really love that along with that wisdom he's always been known for, he's also got that rare little snarky charm to him as well, which was never really touched upon in the Model Series. Truly a perfect CGI gem.

[@mattybutler1985]

Okay but can we just take a moment to appreciate that they recreated Grosvenor Bank outside London Victoria about as accurately as they could've in CGI Thomas for a 2 second shot? If anything it adds even more to the in-joke from Gordon Goes Foreign. Duck says it's Paddington, the Royal Scot says it's Euston, Gordon says it's King's Cross and ends up in St Pancras, and Thomas ends up at London Victoria. Brilliant.

[@marklincovet509]

who's royal scot?

[@mattybutler1985]

The engine Gordon and Duck are talking to at the start of Gordon Goes Foreign. Presumably the same one that fell over later in the story. It's either a Royal Scot or a Patriot and the book doesn't say which.

[@WhitehouseFilms]

Just wanted to point out that the main reason I chose Thomas to arrive at Victoria station had nothing to do with it being a Southern Region station or that some of Thomas' brothers worked as station pilots there. No, the actual reason was that at the time I was working at a time frame and had looked up which station had the shortest distance from Buckingham Palace to ensure the Fat Controller arrived there on time. Victoria was the closest so thats the reason I chose it. Also the TATMRR reference had nothing to do with the film's 20th Anniversary in 2020, that was just pure coincidence. I wrote it in cause I wanted Thomas to say a much loved line and wondered what line would be best and "Little engines can do BIG things" fitted the bill. Truth be told, after I had written the special, I actually got the quote printed on a T-shirt and wore it to a fan meet up to see if anyone would notice the spoiler that this quote was coming back. Not one, even the most die hard of fans, spotted it. LOL.

[@mattybutler1985]

Well you did great, by sheer coincidence you happened to pick the perfect station both for the character and the situation.

[@herrice3227]

The Bullet Train episode is a bit of a sentimental one for me. It came out a while after my Dad passed away. The last Thomas show he ever watched was the Hiro film, and he really enjoyed it, but he never got the chance to watch the newer films. Seeing Hiro leave the show felt like a little send-off to him too, and I got rather emotional at the end. I never gave Hiro much thought beforehand, but after that episode, he means a lot more.

[@robertrowley4929]

Sorry to hear about your dad 😢.

[@herrice3227]

@robertrowley4929 Thank you, man. It happened a few years ago, but it still hurts just as much. Things like that don't get easier; you just get tougher. I hope to make him proud one day. All the best to you. ❤️

[@robertrowley4929]

@@herrice3227 you will, pal. I just know it. Do what you can and be sure to do it with pride 👍🏼

[@fanofeverything30465]

So sorry for your loss 😢

[@herrice3227]

@@fanofeverything30465 Thank you.

[@gothnerd887]

31:26 Winston: I wish I was autonomous Thomas: I'm flattered but I think you should be yourself Thomas' driver: No, *autonomous,* it means being able to get around without a driver Thomas: Other vehicles can do that?

[@StevenGarcia118]

One of the CGI episodes I don’t think wasn’t talked about is “Duncan the Humbug.” I just love the idea that Duncan really tries to be nice just to get a new coat of paint. It’s painful to Duncan which makes it hilarious. A bit rushed, yes. The pacing should have been better. But it’s still a sweet episode when at the end Duncan truly was nice out of his heart and not forced. Duncan being depicted as a Scrooge feels appropriate and I’m glad they didn’t opted for a parody of “A Christmas Carol.” I also love how Duncan, sort of, talked back to The Thin Controller with “You can either like it or not!” when discussing about his attitude. I don’t think I ever saw nor hear an engine talk back to their controller, ever. Refusing is one thing. But talking back never happens. I’m shocked that it did. And Duncan was appropriate to talk back at his authority figure.

[@comicfan1324]

I find it interesting how Bulgy was just a one off character in the books, but then he managed to get several episodes in the TV series exploring what makes him tick. I specially like free the roads as it actually shows how warped his perspective on the whole Railway versus Roadway situation is.

[@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967]

Good thing the TV show wants to do more stories around one off characters.

[@vanessasandoval96]

Did heard about Battle Of Buses in Trainz Adventures of Thomas Well Bertie and Bulgy are competing each other who has the most passengers

[@ThomastheE2]

How is it I always see ur comments on videos like these

[@Aussiehudson2006]

They should of made a bulgy and george episode

[@IsleofPigsStudios]

The CGI era has some banger episodes, but it mostly gets passed over because of the whole Model era stuff. But CGI is capable of showing its own greats too. And it’s up to some of us to spotlight these greats. Just like our man here, Great job Tug.

[@vanessasandoval96]

What if Bulgy is friends with Max and Monty

[@IsleofPigsStudios]

@@vanessasandoval96 I’ll do you one better. Bulgy being friends with Max, Monty and George (I know that George never appeared in CGI but all four appeared in the Model Era so… it’s not that far fetched)

[@IsleofPigsStudios]

Man do I hate autocorrect

[@Mike-77-YT]

Yeah. Besides, CGI can overcome many hurdles where models couldn't go over. Such as miniature railway engines.

[@bennewbury2572]

26:09 I swear there’s something about Hiro blasting his whistle that makes me feel just so good, legit tearing up a bit. Great video Tug! Love your work!

[@cardiv5zuikaku944]

Hiro whistle is probably my fav whistle ever in the Thomas franchise

[@teaoftraffic]

time stamps if you want to jump to a specific episode: 1:42 - Free the Roads (Season 23, Episode 1) 5:30 - Old Reliable Edward (Season 18, Episode 1) 10:14 - Happy Birthday, Sir! (Season 16, Episode 20) 13:21 - Toad & the Whale (Season 19, Episode 7) 18:08 - Den & Dart (Season 19, Episode 13) 22:27 - Kenji on the Rails Again (Season 24, Episode 16) 26:21 - Dowager Hatt’s Busy Day (Season 21, Episode 6) 29:56 - Wayward Winston (Season 17, Episode 8) 33:33 - Letters to Santa (Season 20, Episode 2) 37:21 - Thomas & The Royal Engine (Season 24, Episode 23)

[@thetman0068]

Sir Topham Hatt declaring “I’ll be your fireman!” will never not be cool. It’s like Gimli saying “And my axe!”

[@bunyani1912]

I hate that that the CGI Era is very underrated. I don’t care that people say it sucks because it’s not the same as the Model Era. It’s one of my favourite eras in all of Thomas. The Model and the CGI Era are the best in my opinion. Good job, Andrew Brenner! 🎉

[@fanofeverything30465]

You should respect other's opinions though

[@bunyani1912]

@@fanofeverything30465 true

[@JZJ7777]

I love it because it’s not the same as the model series.

[@Tnwr-gs2ey]

9:37 Originally, from season 1, Annie and Clarabel have a big respect Gordon. Some people think this part works so well in this episode. First, the scene at yard. When Edward told Thomas about Gordon's rude attitude to him, there is an Annie's shot, only for 1~2 seconds. That's one of the clever thing, to show Annie's respect and shocking about rudely thing. Second, at the Gordon's hill. Clarabel's smiling face seems like condescending face. It seems she thought like, "Serve you right, Gordon". I love these scenes. "Old Reliable Edward" is truly one of the best episode, in CGI series.

[@kevin-2.1]

10:00 I like what Nick said about Clarabelle.

[@thinaphonpetsiri9907]

The love Old Reliable the most in this list, seriously, who doesn’t like Edward being a chad? I also like the Dowager Hatt’s Busy Day for the creator were just like “yeah, some of our past episodes were just **** so let’s roast them.” I also like how they did Emily right, which is a rare occurrence in CGI (such a shame, I kinda wish she got more justice, Stirling Single is my favorite engine after all).

[@Tuvandalist]

old reliable edward really shows the father and son esque dynamic that edward and thomas have, personally when watching it i just get that vibe of a kid getting back at their parents mean coworker or something similar

[@CaptainCat101]

Nice to know CGI isn't always a bad thing

[@vanessasandoval96]

My only BWBA era episodes are only Hunt the Truck and Free the Roads

[@emilenef.a.290]

⁠@@vanessasandoval96 Same but i also like school of duck

[@TheGamingVanillite]

Well Toy Story and Veggietales were both filmed in CGI if I remember.

[@fanofeverything30465]

​@@emilenef.a.290I like those episodes and I'm also including Thomas and the Royal Engine in that

[@joshuaW5621]

Nice to see more people acknowledging that BWBA isn’t all bad.

[@josephmarrison4606]

I would put all of Michael’s episodes on my favourite CGI episodes list. He was truly a fan who understood what worked and what didn’t work.

[@altermike3197]

I ADORE Edward being cheeky and Gordon pleading after realizing what being rude means for him

[@joshuaW5621]

As bad as that episode is, Thomas’s Animal Friends has a relatable message about not letting people make fun of what you love, which feels kinda relatable to the fandom if you think about it.

[@JAdg75oo00]

Most certainly

[@Engine9824]

Now that I think about, that is actually kind of true.

[@cinnamonmantrainsareawesom7224]

Absolutely

[@joelcartagena953]

Ahem. I really propose that all of us have a serious Deputation on continuing Thomas & Friends in full CGI but making most of the BWBA episodes better and more realistic. And of course still using the RWS and several elements from the previous TVS and some elements from early CGI Thomas & Friends series.

[@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967]

@@joelcartagena953 As well as having the Brenner era return and continue with other ideas to add.

[@hudsontrainguy1217]

Not only is the “Den & Dart” episode the most underrated one from Season 19, but also both Den & Dart are the most underrated duo characters ever to exist in the entire show, and also, I absolutely love how Toby was portrayed as a teacher figure to Den. And btw, in Thomas & The Royal Engine, there are three things that i absolutely adore in that mini-special, one is that the guitar riff from Thomas & Topham’s preparation for their visit to the Queen which is a nice little reference to the guitar riff from The Beatles song “Day Tripper”, the beginning of the special has Prince Harry’s role and also a cute little recreation of the J50 Thomas design

[@cratorcic9362]

They throw in a nod to Ringo in the final episode. How appropriate

[@Thomasmemoryscentral]

Really? Is there a passenger that resembles Ringo at the end?@@cratorcic9362

[@NitroIndigo]

I really like what they did with Emily in season 21, making her the straight man in two episodes, which I think is more focus she got than in the preceding four seasons combined.

[@TheAutisticCapricorn811]

Make that straight _woman._

[@amandastill5124]

Man?

[@allison122477]

I love in Toad and the Whale how they mention life and dead, it’s nice to see a more deeper matter in the CGI era, it’s why I love the Brenner Era.

[@KalaschniKlown]

18:18 allow me to retort Den is one of my favourite characters PURELY Because of the memes, you can thank Dr-Dash & Vargskelethor Joel for that.

[@joshuaW5621]

Nice to see Miller and BWBA getting some spotlight on there better episodes, proving that these two eras aren’t entirely bad.

[@kevin-2.1]

Yeah like if you ignore the bad flashbacks, the bouncing engines & Thomas being the narrative I think there are some good episode in the bwba series.

[@s.p.d.magentaranger1822]

​​@@Brian_Eugene_LeeI mean, the only parts of Apology Impossible I like are the "It's Not Me" bit on the bridge and the fantasy sequence with Paxton. "I fell in the water."

[@Ryder-a-Blaze]

Nothing will ever top the model series but that doesn’t change the fact that the CGI series still has plenty of hidden gems in it, and that is something that should be recognised.

[@robertrowley4929]

Indeed; all three eras have their gems and when combined, they can form something heavenly 😇

[@NitroIndigo]

Do you think there are any hidden gems in All Engines Go?

[@robertrowley4929]

@@NitroIndigo yeah, like Whiff being used to his full potential. Or even Bulstrode being used again for the first time since Season 4.

[@Scrinwaipwr]

The CGI era suffered greatly from all those corporate mandates to infantilise, didn't it. These hidden CGI gem episodes often seem to be ones where the writers try to resist the fat-cats in some way, using characters or tones that went against the mandates.

[@Anchovistic]

I, too, do not approve of the idea that Oliver disregards Toad's opinions. He should have been a caring side for his brake van, not just dismissing him. He had to be the supportive character in that episode.

[@christophergarland7936]

Dude was good enough friends with Toad to take him with him when they ran from BR, at great personal risk. On that night, he could've just booked it, but no. He went and fetched his brakevan (and in the books, autocoach) and THEN booked it. At any point in that 20-30 minute window, they could've been caught and that would be the end of it. Either they both escaped, or neither did. Toad and Oliver's bond should've been on the level of Donald and Douglas, another pair of characters whereby one escaped BR solely because of the other, and it seems painfully out of character for Oliver. Even in his arrogant early arc, he still regarded Toad as a close friend, even taking advice from him about how to deal with S.C.Ruffey. Oliver's character got seriously boned for most of the CGI era, seemingly the price for more Toad focus.

[@kevin-2.1]

16:56 like yeah, I thought he wouldn’t doubt Toad anymore?

[@omarvazquez4075]

At least that was only a thing in that episode, and after that Oliver always respects toad

[@SrMechaGojira93]

Maybe if Thomas *wasn’t* in the episode and they expand on Oliver’s growth *more* in the 2nd half But, no, Mattel *really loves* to make Thomas the *only* sensible engine of every story since S19!!!

[@JZJ7777]

And that’s why I don’t like Oliver. He’s too in his head.

[@wolfzillaproductions4563]

17:17 “What is your beef, dude?!” I have to admit, that made me laugh considering that I was asking the exact same question when I first watched this episode XD

[@Werdna-ob2ul]

I feel the only logical reason Oliver in "Toad and the Whale" is given the short end of the stick writing wise, is because of the mandate by Mattel at the time to have Thomas in every episode. My guess is with how Thomas is then used also is tied to the fact Thomas speaks in every episode in S19, unlike S20 where a there are a small batch of stories he just makes cameo appearances in.

[@diabeticman2194]

Old Reliable Edward was the first Brenner era CGI episode I ever watched, and it was amazing to see. Definitely a good first impression of the era!

[@matese1912]

I also find the free the roads fantasy sequence funny because of knowing that this is how Bulgy actually views himself. He sees himself as hero, trying to save the passengers from the inconvenience of rail travel. But in reality he’s just pestering the passengers, makes the engines jobs harder, and is overall a nuisance

[@survivingworldsteam]

@15:50 actually, there is precedent for steam locomotives equipped with water pumps and nozzles for fire control. Both coal and wood burning locomotives would throw sparks which occasionally would start a lineside fire. A typical setup was a steam driven pump, powered by steam from the locomotive's boiler; with a suction connection to a hose either to the tender tank or to a tank car right behind the tender. An easy to see example is the Virginia and Truckee's "J. W. Bowker," preserved at the CA State RR Museum. It has a large fire pump mounted right on top of the boiler, between the steam and sand domes. Less obvious but more common, several Shays and other logging locomotives had a fire pump mounted on the running board opposite from the steam engine. West Side Lumber Shay #12, which is/was at the Colorado Railroad Museum, has kept it's duplex fire pump on it's running board into preservation. Some had a fire pump on their tender, though I can remember a specific example right now. Anyway, not as odd as you may think. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, the writers for CGI Thomas really did their homework and came up with some rarw and unique steam engines that really existed, such as the Gypsy logging engines on Misty Island, Marion the rail mounted steam shovel (they were used to dig the Panama Canal and elsewhere), and yes, steam fire pump equipped steam locomotives.

[@matthewfranks2198]

Old Reliable Edward is a gem. Edward to me, seems like Thomas’ “actual” best friend

[@giulianodervelociraptorder734]

Very based.

[@EternityKingdomsHeadHoncho]

Just like Toby is Percy's actual best friend

[@matthewfranks2198]

@@EternityKingdomsHeadHoncho Yep

[@Xalerdane]

I think the three engines Thomas is closest to would be Edward, Gordon, and (at a distant third) Toby. Edward, for being the kind mentor figure that always supported him in the beginning. Gordon, once he mellowed out and they formed their alliance. Thomas probably never fully stopped yanking his chain, but they probably found common ground as the head engine of the main line and the head engine of the ‘most important’ branch line. Toby, once he got that policeman, would rise in Thomas’s esteem enough to be considered ‘second best branch line engine’.

[@growlie2676]

@@EternityKingdomsHeadHonchoAfter watching TOTB, I thought it would've been Gator. Even though he doesn't live on Sodor.

[@AntonioWQ635]

35:41 I love how Percy did not care of being on a unknow place like the mainland to find his friend-enemy

[@firestormcrafts]

I like how Percy was the one to tell Winston that He shouldn’t go without a driver considering He was the One who told off Thomas in “Thomas Comes To Breakfast”.

[@thomasthetankenginefriends]

I think Free the Roads is one of my favorite BWBA episodes. It's nice to have a returning character take the spotlight. Old Reliable Edward is a good episode, seeing Gordon stuck on the hill.. again. And also, I always thought Gordon was a grumpy or mad engine in the classic series. All I see is that angry face. The most often thing to see of him in the classic series.

[@amyrodgers4252]

11:09 The thing about the drivers and firemen that i find funny is that they do NOTHING apart from their jobs. They literally choose not to de-escalate any situations that their engines get themselves into and just sit back and watch the chaos unfold. The whole time they basically just go "👬" while the engines are all "💃🕺🤺🤸"

[@bigbuffersproductions]

YAA BOO SNUBS

[@EngineerRiff]

What does that even mean?

[@jonkler677]

​@@EngineerRiffYAA BOO SNUBS

[@bigbuffersproductions]

@@EngineerRiffYA BOO SNUBS

[@mikesbricks9214]

@@EngineerRiffYa Boo Snubs

[@LancashireAndYorkshire]

​@@EngineerRiffYAA BOO SNUBS

[@RhapsodyHC]

Another overlooked one from Nitrogen era is Tickled Pink. It’s a good James episode, showing that he can be insecure about others making fun of him. Yeah, it has its problems with the 3 strike formula, but this is a rarity where the main character doesn’t make the big final mistake and learns the lesson. Instead, James persisted despite feeling insecure, and because he did he learns the lesson himself when the children liked him being pink.

[@JChristiansenLuckythebrony2222]

Another thing I like personally about Wayward Winston is that the episode uses the obligatory title character appearance this era of the show is known for in an awesome way; as having Thomas help Sir Topham Hatt chase Winston is a nice callback to Thomas Comes to Breakfast; Thomas knows from experience how dangerous it is to try to travel down the line without a driver, I don't remember if there's any dialogue referencing Thomas Comes to Breakfast in Wayward Winston, but it doesn't matter as Thomas being the one to help chase Winston down the line tells that part of the episode's all on it's own.

[@Thomasmemoryscentral]

I also enjoy the clever use of accidentally going down the wrong tracks as a result of them acting a bit too late. Thomas is sent down the wrong track because the first signalman pulled the lever too late and thus that signalman telephones a second signalman to switch Thomas back onto the mainline. A gripe even in the latter model series is the stories after season 6 sometimes rely too much on sleepy or neglectful signalman not changing the tracks. This time, they tell us the switchers did it by accident as they’re awake!

[@QJ89]

'Wayward Winston' seems like one of those episodes that, had they followed railway practice more, the story would have been over much quicker. Simply call the signalman at the next box to send Winston into a siding. Since comments are (as of now) disabled for the previous vid - thanks YT for automatically flagging something Thomas-related as being for Kids regardless of content - I'm mentioning 'Not-So-Slow Coaches' here: Annie & Clarabel got accidentally attached to Caitlin's express? Call the next signal box and have them stop at the next station. Story over. I'd even go so far as to apply this notion to 'Tale Of The Brave': "That was a dinosaur skeleton, Percy. Not a monster." But of course, where would be the fun in taking away aspects of character and story for technical realism?

[@RowanMackenzie]

You're absolutely right, I love the positivity. Of course, you don't want to sugarcoat things, or remove criticism entirely, but seeing a flawed thing's upsides shown off...there's something really nice about it

[@maley2552]

One of my Favorite CGI Episodes is Henry Gets the Express. That one is similar to Old Reliable Edward. With Gordon is being an ass to another character and Thomas steps in to help & stands up for that character. Gordon's ego is massive because clearly he's been the only one pulling the express for a long while. He mocks Henry, saying he can't take the express, trying to discourage him because Henry who's the only one who can challenge Gordon and take his job. Thomas steps in defends Henry and suggests Henry take the express for the day to Sir Topham and I like how Gordon gets a massive ego chopping when Sir Topham threatens to make Henry the permante taker of the Express.

[@growlie2676]

Honestly Henry is the best choice for when Gordon can't pull the Express. A substitute. If anything, Henry looks to have (almost) the same build as Gordon so he should be just as strong as Gordon really.

[@graymonk5972]

i love the toad and the whale episode i’ve also been an octonauts fan since i was a kid so it reminds me of the episode where they rescue an orca whale by having crabs dig under it with ropes (like what the ppl did in the thomas and friends ep). the genuine seriousness it’s treated with is so good from a show that tends to treat more serious issues with jokes i also love den and dart’s interactions. i’m autistic and don’t talk much and have to have friends talk for me sometimes. idk i just like how dart clarifies what den is saying when he’s rambling on. it’s something i’m used to my friends doing a lot for me

[@graymonk5972]

i also love the hiro and kenji ep i was pretty young when hero of the rails came out and watched the hell out of it. i loved that there was an asian engine (as i’m asian, albeit not japanese. i’m from kazakhstan) so he became one of my favorites. seeing him finally go back to his home while helping kenji too, was really touching

[@srmcd1]

I showed my dad "Old Reliable Edward" when it aired, and he noticed Clarabel's expression change as well. He liked that it had a "snarkier" air to it that made it feel more real

[@justinkwong8071]

I like that they made the effort to give the troublesome trucks different-sounding voices as we first heard in Den and Dart. Broke them up and made them more individual than just a single squawky unit.

[@fairlyoddenginecreations]

This was really good! There are some disagreements I have but nothing that kills the video. If you plan on making a 3rd video like this, I do have some episode suggestions thr next time you do something like this in the future: *Daisy's Perfect Christmas:* Literally NO ONE talks about this episode, but it does so much right. The moral is rather unique for the show, Daisy is hilarious as always, everyone else is likeable and in character, it's a wonderful episode from start to finish and an infinitely superior way of talking about how things change than that BWBA ep that shall not be named.. *Thomas the Quarry Engine:* A very RWS inspired episode to me. Thomas, Diesel and Mavis are 100% like their portrayals in the books and early model series. I also really enjoy the runaway sequence here. Not much else to say other than it's an exceptional episode. *Snow Tracks:* I know, I'm just as shocked as you are. But I really like this episode for staying true to Thomas & Gordon's alliance, something Brenner forgot about. And it has a cool crash! (despite it being silly). Gordon is one of the few Nitrogen era mains to have not been completely butchered imo. *Thomas' Shortcut:* Another very RWS inspired story to me. Feels like the 2nd sequel to Thomas & Bertie we all needed (alongside Three Cheers for Thomas). Not a lot of people talk about this one. And finally.. *Slow Stephen:* BRO THIS EPISODE IS PHENOMENAL WHEN YOU WILL TALK ABOUT IT?? Stephen is a fantastic character, but he's not the only reason this episode is magnificent. The action, the animation, the pacing, the voice acting, the urgency of the situation all jam-packed in the climax.. just perfect. If there's ONE episode I'd kill for you to talk about, it's this one.

[@steam-powered-cyborg]

I’m so glad you chose Toad and the Whale, because I remember people initially complained about the lack of Oliver episodes and while it is possible to write for him without hinting at his scrapyard escape in some way, what we did get was adorable, because Toad is a good lad. Not too into Toad’s Adventure but even that has the benefit of Dowager Hatt’s involvement and the scene composition of Toad’s climactic rescue.

[@comicfan1324]

31:33 that’s a bit ironic, considering how little input the drivers tend to have (in some stories of the books, TV series, Aunt, CGI, Series it’s even implied the engines have at least some control of themselves.)

[@Thomasmemoryscentral]

Double ironic considering Hit Entertainment created a special intro in Season 9 showing Thomas's crew and the workmen preparing him for the day but the drivers and fireman barely did anything in the Hit era unless the plot demands it

[@callum110597]

Wow, that is super impressive! I never thought we'd get another one of those videos! Glad we can look back on what are still considered good episodes, amongst the others everyone loves. Also interesting to include episodes from series 13-16 and 22-24. Anyway, I love every single one of those episodes. Well, "Happy Birthday Sir!" isn't an absolutely awesome episode, but still nice, definitely one of the best Nitrogen episodes. The rest are cool, even those BWBA episodes. Even though "Thomas and the Royal Engine" was meant to be the final episode, I think the show really could do with continuing, at least to end All Engines Go, of all things. But still, thank you so much for this video; I really love it!

[@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967]

I agree. The show really could do with continuing, especially when it comes to returning more old characters like BoCo and Duke, more focus on other characters, return old locations like Elsbridge, character pairings like Duck and Diesel's rivalry, playing with tone like dark and mature, other sides like Duck's love for the sea and Henry's love for nature, have Diesel 10 appear again and portrayed as his evil self once again properly, Toby have his chaotic neutral trait and witty sense of humor restored, have the threat of diesels taking over and steam engines being scrapped on the Mainland be mentioned more in CGI, more flashbacks and references to old episodes from the classic series to have them be in the same canon as CGI despite differences and much more.

[@SrMechaGojira93]

2:19 - Rebecca was briefly mentioned - _Happy Birthday Sir_ was also very notable for being the *final* episode narrated by Michael Angelis (after 21 years) and Michael Brandon (after 8 years), with _Blue Mountain Mystery_ being their final story overall, so in a way, they left the show on a very good note. R.I.P. to Angelis, one of Thomas’ greatest legends - *No* way! Den and Dart were the highlight of _Day of the Diesels._ *CGI ‘Arry & Bert* are the nobodies!!! - Queen Elizabeth II (may she R.I.P.) is actually voiced by Sharon Miller. Yes, *the* Sharon Miller! I’m also *happy* that in Royal Engine, Thomas was *NOT* a jerk to Duchess! This kind of conflict worked out fine with Stanley, and the one-sided conflict with Ryan is there just because; but when they did it with Ashima *and* Nia, *I can’t stand it!!!*

[@Avery_Productions]

I literally forgot Arry and Bert even appeared in CGI 💀

[@GTP2763]

Fun fact: in “free the roads” George the steamroller was supposed to appear instead of Max and Monty

[@BrandonSG13]

Love this video, and loved the last hidden gems one too. The CGI era doesn’t get enough appreciation and it has some glorious episodes. I found myself in these waiting for episodes to come up that I loved, and most of them were covered here. Excellent video, Tug. Keep it up

[@TGM_2018_III]

For what it’s worth, there were actual engines with water cannons that were used to fight fires in the Sierra Nevadas

[@Oturan20]

Firefighting trains are still a thing, granted the cannons aren't attached to the engine but the water storage rail cars that are used specifically for the suppression of wildfires near railways, they even still have cabooses.

[@rvmaika5815]

Personally I’m really fond of Thomas & the Emergency Cable. I love how active the humans are in the story, I’m a sucker for stories about Thomas’s relationship with Annie and Clarabel, it has a nice moral, and it overall feels just like a Wilbert Awdry story

[@dadocta5168]

Funny to think the show is finally over (unsatisfyingly) we can judge everything fairly without any speculation, theories, or hope for what's to come. Seasons 1 - 24 is the complete package of Thomas the Tank Engine.

[@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967]

If the HIT era characters like Molly, Neville, Dennis and Freddie return in CGI, the Brenner era would really make them likeable with expanding their personalities and their traits to do more with them.

[@markdemars7648]

15:55 to 16:00 The Rescue Team wasn't necessarily a forced gimmick because I think it's a great concept. Because what would happen to Sodor if it went into a crisis which involves people lost out at sea, on the mountains in need of rescue or if any fire breaks out. That's what the rescue team is for. And the fact Harold The Helicopter is part of it still amazes me because he's been around since season 2 of Thomas and Friends in the Classic Series.

[@silenc3068]

I have a theory that the Bulgy episode was Greenlit because it was pitched as “Hey, a double decker bus character? In our train show? That’s a fun thing kids will love”

[@SonicJrandSarah]

Happy Birthday Sir was the first episode I saw that featured Winston. What is interesting is that that is the only episode where somebody other than Sir Topham Hatt is Winston's driver, and we never get another episode where Winston is driven by somebody else. I do agree that his driver seems to be acting as Winston's hands in this one.

[@toocooldarr_17]

The GCI Era of Thomas is special and underrated well atleast Seasons 17-21. Being born in 2007 I started watching thomas in the Medicore Era. The Brenner Era saved me and made me enjoy Thomas again

[@dumdum42069]

tbh i wished Mr.Perkins was on this list, he was a treat in between episodes, nobody never talks about him sadly.

[@theAstarrr]

36:05 It shouldn't be reserved for a time of year, but it's nice to see the lesson of helping others out in general.

[@ShikiKiryu]

While I will probably always prefer the model era of the show, I still gave the CGI era you talk about so passionately here a chance and you are right, there really are some good gems to be found.

[@MatthewCable]

Old Reliable Edward was actually the CGI Episode I watched when coming back to Thomas

[@ultra6671]

One episode I feel is overlooked is Season 23's "Wish You Were Here", as it genuinely felt like a story that made the BWBA gimmick work. The episode does a great job showing that as much as he enjoys seeing the world and making new friends, Thomas still misses his home and his best friend. The obligatory fantasy sequence where Thomas shows Percy around China works because it helps show how important Percy is to Thomas, and you can see how distraught he is when his dream ends. The international engines were also handled really well. Even though Hong-Mei and Yong Bao don't know who Percy is or how close of a friend he is to Thomas, they still try to help lift his spirits in their own ways.

[@growlie2676]

I Can't decide If I like Yong Bao or Hiro or both for that matter.

[@GabeM2016]

It's funny, Thomas and the Royal Engine was what made me realized that Battersea Power Station exists within the Thomas universe. I literally remember taking a screenshot of the building from the episode and putting it next to the album cover for Pink Floyd's "Animals"

[@LimpBizkitMix]

“Den and Dart are nobody’s favorite characters”, this is true but at least Dart’s face became a great meme A personal hidden gem in my eyes in Kevin’s Cranky Friend from Season 17, the story isn’t anything outstanding but I absolutely LOVE Kevin and Cranky’s dynamic in it

[@glitchygamer105]

If there’s a third one of these two episodes I’d recommend are Percy and the Calliope and Emily to the rescue from s16 and s24 respectively, which are two of my favourite episodes overall.

[@merlinandmurdoch7837]

I take Old Wheezy Wobbles as early on in Den and Dart’s relationship, back then they felt each other as co-workers. The first episode they didn’t feel very much on each other but needed to work together to get the job done for different skillsets, overtime they grew really attached that they could not split apart because they care so much for each other.

[@h_draw]

16:58 In Oliver’s defence, he kind of has a point, a beached whale is something best left to professionals, so while he should’ve been more considerate of Toad’s idea, he had a semi decent reason. The entire thing of him disregarding Toad’s idea the second time is 99% just there to give Thomas a role in the episode, it should’ve been Oliver and Toad discussing it before bringing it up to Topham.

[@christophergarland7936]

Of all the things to be referenced in Royal Engine, TATMR was DEFINITELY not on my expectations list. They could've easily used 'Never overlook a little engine' instead and no one would've batted an eye. But no. Like it or not, TATMR exists, and I have to respect the balls they had to reference one of Thomas' most controversial outings after the decades of trying to erase all aspects of it from public memory (with the exception of the merch magnet that is Diesel 10), on its own 20th anniversary no less. My hopes aren't high for the 80th, but between the 70th and 75th, Mattel have a decent track record for Thomas' anniversary celebrations. They may yet surprise us, one way or another.

[@swood9140]

Fun Fact: George the Steamroller was planned to make an appearance in Free The Roads but was dropped in favor for Max and Monty, According to Michael White himself.

[@christophergarland7936]

Likely a budget thing. George would need a new CGI model made, while Max and Monty's already existed.

[@joshuaW5621]

George is gonna be the first character who returns in the revival era though.

[@NitroIndigo]

@@joshuaW5621 Source?

[@joshuaW5621]

@@NitroIndigo it’s speculation.

[@SouthernMaineFoamer]

As much as I love people shouting at stuff, I love when we also take a look at the greats of things. When Tug says something is great, I always know I have to give it a chance to check out, because let’s admit this man can convince that anything we never thought of at all is amazing.

[@RedMadMichael]

I like to assume that Old Reliable Edward takes place early on in the series, some time after The Adventure Begins, ignoring any engines that showed up in the episode from later on in the show. I also never realised that it was an underrated episode at all, I always loved it and thought it was pretty well adored.

[@kingofthepod5169]

42:22 There he is! Reverend awdry himself! Finally it's about time.

[@MrSonicHedgehog]

Every time it comes to that one part in Old Reliable Edward where Thomas is being smug towards Gordon after pulling in front of him and slowing down, I always think "Thomas, you magnificent bastard I read your BOOK!!!!!"

[@Kukaak]

I don't really agree that Gordon being rude to Edward in Edward the Very Useful Engine is a problem because character development has barely ever been a thing in the TVS, and there's been no indication anyway that Gordon started respecting him after Exploit because they never interact with each other after that until EtVUE I'd hesitate to call Kenji on the Rails a send-off for Hiro considering it's been confirmed that they were planning to have Thomas visit Japan in S25 and see Hiro again before the show got cancelled. It's nice that they showed Hiro leaving, but it's more of a set-up for Hiro being in Japan

[@joshuaW5621]

I’m planning to defend that episode in my upcoming season 6 review.

[@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967]

I agree since I believe that Hiro can come back to Sodor again like he did before one day.

[@moonlightrider24]

I loved the first CGI gems video so this was an amazing surprise, as I’m a huge fan of the Brenner Era and while I don’t think these are as collectively strong as the last, most of these are pretty amazing and I’m so glad to see them get love. I love Den and Dart, Toad and the Whale, and Letters to Santa so much. Also i may or may not be one of the few fans who actually really likes Den and Dart and they’re personal favs (not top tier but at least A/B+ tier) probably more because of fan work but still, kinda love em :p great video Tug! Can’t wait to see what you do next :D

[@Imsorrywat]

A lot of people are talking about old reliable Edward, but I want to talk about Kenji on the Rails Again. This episode just now has hit home. 1 week ago, I found out that my best friend, and her brother, who I had also become steadfast friends with, were leaving to go back to their home country. It came out of nowhere, and I still feel like I haven’t fully realized what this means- I may never see them again. Someone please tell me what the odds are of Hiro, my favorite CGI character, leaving to go back to his home nation as well. I have yet to see the episode, but you can bet that this put it on my radar. I find it ironic the one season I take I hiatus from Thomas, It ends and predicted a future event of mine stupid well.

[@kevin-2.1]

I like Dowager hat’s busy day, because it shows that dowager doesn’t know everything & she isn’t capable of running a railway. And second is letters to Santa, is a great reenactment of Percy and Harold rivalry. But that is put behind them and focus on helping each other out. I like that Percy is getting along with Harold.

[@gothnerd887]

24:48 was hoping Kenji and Hiro would speak Japanese to each other and Thomas would be confused.

[@NitroIndigo]

Language barriers don't exist outside of Blue Mountain Mystery, apparently.

[@gothnerd887]

​@@NitroIndigoyeah, I'd like to ask all the international characters how they got so good at English

[@ek9509]

18:53: If you guys (and girls) remember the book Of Mice & Men [it’s still being shown at my school], Den & Dart (immediately) feel like the George and Lennie of Thomas and Friends.

[@drevianedwardsproductions9244]

This is pretty enjoyable, I'm not gonna lie Free the roads and Thomas in the Royal engine are one of my favorites from Big world big adventures. Overall, pretty nice continuation of some hidden gems of CGI Thomas.

[@abareamphibia6812]

I normally don’t like the dream sequences from big world big adventure either, but the free the roads one is actually really funny, something about Percy being shown like an evil super villain from old cartoons made me laugh so hard

[@lionellion4621]

"Because Sir Topham Hat is a bit of a bad Driver." Me remembering when Elizabeth the steam truck first came to the show: "Oh it's you, have you finally learned how to drive." Me now: "Oh... now everything makes sense. Wow, Elizabeth wasn't kidding. He really is a bad driver."

[@ek9509]

13:16: Holy crap. I didn’t think it was going to vary to the “lazy” [Nitrogen] era. I thought it would just be “flashy” [BWBA] & “comeback” [Brenner]. Heck, I didn’t expect a BWBA episode in this, either. But, CGI is compressed of all three eras, so, I probably should’ve expected that.

[@traintrack3761]

This was truly grand! Honestly I think Edward The Very Useful Engine should’ve had Spamcan in Gordon’s role

[@Jude-72]

I'm ready for retrospective on Season 8, but you've convinced me to go watch some cgi episodes!

[@EternityKingdomsHeadHoncho]

Like “Terence Breaks the Ice” from the previous list, I was happy to see “Wayward Winston” be part of this one. It was the first of many fun character studies the Brenner era did, and what better way to start than with a character who felt straight out of the Gullane Era (5-7)

[@crazyconan28]

Thank you for the video as always. I'm nostalgic for Thomas due to it being what got me into liking trains as an adult and while I don't watch episodes now I love listening to your videos on how the show is going in-universe and even more learning on the history of how it was made through the books and TV show seasons by the creator and crew members throughout the years.

[@MrWestener]

I am a young member in the fandom and while I prefer RWS way more than anything, I have a special place in my heart for season 17-20. I remember waking up very early, making my cereal and Turing in my TV and watched these episodes. So much nostalgia came back through this video, I might need to rewatch some!