Guess what I’ll be dragged along to see come 2011? (as will a horde of other Dad’s, no doubt).
A new “Thomas the Tank Engine” Movie. The Hollywood Reporter says Charisma’s (my daughter for newbies) beloved “choo choo” is headed back to the big screen. You’ll recall the blue-stained loco starred opposite Alec Baldwin and Mara Wilson in a “Thomas” feature a few years back.
Josh Klausner ("Shrek the Third") is writing the script for the new movie.
Julia Pistor of HIT Movies, a newly launched unit of Thomas caretaker HIT Entertainment, is producing. The UTA-repped HIT also owns the Barney and Bob the Builder franchises, and it launched the film division to bring those family-oriented properties to the multiplex.
"'Thomas & Friends' is a phenomenally successful and versatile brand that appeals to children and families worldwide," said Pistor, who heads Hit Movies. "Generations of children have grown up with the adventures of 'Thomas & Friends' with its storytelling tradition, positive values, timeless lessons and rich train history. We look forward to working with Josh Klausner to translate the classic 'Thomas & Friends' stories into a thrilling, big, modern adventure movie."
In addition, HIT are developing a new CGI “Thomas” TV series.