This is one of the lesser known Ealing comedies and while it isn’t as beloved as the studio’s more famous output like The Ladykillers, Kind Hearts and Coronets or The Lavender Hill Mob and doesn’t have their satirical bite, it’s still an enjoyably gentle and whimsical adventure that won’t only appeal to train lovers.
Typically for Ealing it’s a tale of community spirit. When the residents of the titular Titfield realise that their idyllic hamlet is about to be ruined by a new motorway due to the British Railway Service shutting down the local line they decide to run it themselves. Inevitably a combination of their own amateurism, saboteurs working for the local bus company and stringent government inspectors make it a daunting task, will they succeed and save their homes?
Well, without dropping any spoilers it’s pretty obvious from the beginning that there isn’t going to be a depressingly downbeat ending. It’s clear that The Titfield Thunderbolt is completely lacking any carefully concealed cynical darkness and is essentially a whimsical fairytale. And unlike many of Ealing’s post-war comedies this doesn’t take place in a battle damaged London recreated on soundstages, but rather in beautiful countryside that was filmed on location in Somerset.
It’s also one of their few Technicolor forays and legendary cinematographer Douglas Slocombe gives everything an intensely green and pleasant sheen that is only intensified by the digital restoration it’s been given. This restoration also means that in one of the most memorable scenes, when a locomotive engine goes off the tracks and careens through the streets, in several shots you can now see the hidden’ tracks.
Unlike those previously mentioned Ealing classics it’s not the kind of film that will stand up to endless repeat viewings but it’s still great escapist, nostalgic fun. Typically for these Ealing releases the disc comes laden with extras so it’ll make a fine addition to any collection.
Overall Verdict: A characteristically charming and enjoyable Ealing comedy. It doesn’t have the satirical edge or lasting impact of their more famous films but it’s still hugely enjoyable fun.
Special Features:
Making the Titfield Thunderbolt
Douglas Slocombe Home Movie Footage
The Lion Locomotive Featurette
Locations Featurette
Stills Gallery
Restoration Comparison
Douglas Slocombe on Charles Crichton audio interview
Trailer
Reviewer: Adam Pidgeon