The Railway Children

Rating:
Summary: An essential 'family' classic.
Review: At last this delightful, beautifully photographed and acted film is available on DVD. Although essentially a 'family' film, with its old-fashioned plot, period detail and predictably sentimental ending, 'The Railway Children' still has much to offer adult viewers. Its themes of sacrifice and coming-of-age will strike resonance (and perhaps induce the odd tear or two) with even the coldest-hearted old cynic. It is the child actors who most impress here - all of them outstanding, but with particular praise reserved for Jenny Agutter, never more affecting or effective than she was in this film.

Rating:
Summary: A Family Film Not To Be Missed
Review: Here's a family film that restores one's faith in movie-making.
There's not a doubt in my mind that this charming story will make you remember a time when movies had pure, unadulterated heart. Jenny Agutter shines as the oldest daughter in a role that could very easily have been overacted. I've seen this movie numerous times since first taking my children to see it when originally released. I'm constantly amazed at the sense of civility and decency one brings away from it. It's a family film about family, and how important (no matter how jaded we think we are) it really is. The lovely Johnny Douglas score is also quite wonderful. And I bet the last scene brings a smile to your face. Needless to say this version of "The Railway Children" is highly recommended. But please don't confuse it with the recent PBS remake, which suffers greatly in comparison.

Rating:
Summary: Beautiful, poignant, full of meaning and hope
Review: I've seen this movie 3 times on television and will buy the DVD for everyone I know. From acting to costumes, cinematography to story line, this thing is brilliant. It is literally an antidote to what ails modern living. You can practically smell the grass on the hillsides and the hunger in their stomachs. Perky, the railway man, is a favorite character. The children were cast superbly. Michael Kitchen as the father--perfect. Lest I am too effusive, let me say that I am a huge British Comedy fan and Anglophile, so maybe I'm predisposed to like this film.

Pick a cold day in winter when you need to hear something positive. Make yourself a cup of tea, have some sandwiches ready, and watch this DVD under a blanket. You'll want to do this repeatedly about once a year for several years. Make it a tradition.

Rating:
Summary: Beautiful, poignant, full of meaning and hope
Review: My favorite film is available on DVD at last! Although only in the US, in region 1 format. I wonder why this hasn't been released in the UK? - What make this film "Charming" is the direction by Lionel Jeffries (Grandpa Potts in Chitty). His other film "The Amazing Mr Blunden" has a similar feel. Jeffries' input gives this adaptation quite a distant and dreamy approach whilst Jenny Agutter's style of acting contributes to that feeling and Sally Thomsett as dippy Phyllis is perfect. Overall a great film with some wonderfull sequences shot on the Keighley and Worth Valley railway. - I've been quite fanatical about the 1970 film for the last 20 years or so, collecting various items, even holding the UK domain name!

Thanks for reading. Mind the train ! ! !

Rating:
Summary: A Classic Story for the Entire Family
Review: This 1970 film is a must-see. It is a beloved children's story, but its understated evocation of soon-to-vanish Edwardian England circa 1905 will appeal to all ages. Jenny Agutter leads a superb cast; the lush countryside and period architecture give the film a sumptuous atmosphere.
The movie tells an entertaining story, but this story also carefully and lovingly explores themes involving social class, family relationships and growing up. These elements combine to give The Railway Children mutifaceted, enduring appeal. It is fun to watch, but also has gentle lessons to teach.

Rating:
Summary: One of the best family films you will EVER watch...
Review: This film is simply brilliant. It is such a refreshing change to watch a film that has not been made by a computer...The story, acting and characters bring this delight of a film to life. Put on your red flannel petticoats and organize a paper chase at once.