In February of 2007, members of Sodor Island Forums came across a copy of the original script to Thomas and the Magic Railroad from May 1999. A wholly different version of the story than what was released by Destination Films and Gullane Entertainment in July 2000.





Following a "control group" to gauge reaction to the Director's cut of the film, numerous cast members were axed. The original character voices for Thomas, Percy and James were removed, as well as a key player within the film, PT Boomer, played by Doug Lennox, who claims to be proud of his involvement and performance within the movie. As a result of numerous last minute cuts, the film was a critical flop and cost Director/Producer/Writer, Britt Allcroft - a Thomas TV founder - her place within her own company. Sadly, most criticism attracted toward the film has been unfairly aimed at Britt herself.





According to correspondance with Britt herself, a Director's cut of the film was made between her and her editor. Following a lot of extensive research into the production of the Magic Railroad Movie, we have decided to go ahead and spearhead a campaign to try and persuade the current rights owners to have this Director's Cut released.





If successful, for the actors, it would provide justice. Peter Fonda was particularly displeased at his character's later involvement in the movie as a result of the cuts, feeling that there seemed no purpose in him being there. It would also give actors like John Bellis, Michael Angelis and Doug Lennox the chance to shine that they never originally had. For Britt, there would be vindication. The backlash she received was unjustified, owing to the recommendations she was given and the length of time she had to implement them; it also cost Thomas a valuable guardian. And for the fans of the series, young and old, it would be a chance to 'rediscover the Magic Railroad', and see the real magic.





Thomas the Tank Engine is at a point of popularity at the moment that far surpasses anything the character or brand has seen in years previously. There is no better time to restore a little magic to Thomas and the Magic Railroad!