Thomas the Tank Engine is the subject of a new documentary. An Unlikely Fandom: The Impact of Thomas the Tank Engine will premiere at this summer’s The Greatest Gathering event in Derby, England.
Thomas began his adventures in a book published in 1945, the first in Reverend W. Awdry’s The Railway Series. These stories were later adapted into a live-action television show that debuted in 1984. The premiere coincides with the 80th anniversary of the franchise and the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.
“At its core, this documentary tells the story of how one little blue train connects fans across generations, cultures and communities. Sharing our passion project at such a landmark event feels like the perfect way to celebrate Thomas’ 80th anniversary,” said Brannon Carty, Director of An Unlikely Fandom: The Impact of Thomas the Tank Engine.
The documentary explores the influence of the beloved television series on popular culture and its enduring legacy. It also explains the origins of Thomas, its global impact, and its passionate community of fans.
“For many of us railfans, it was watching episodes of Thomas the Tank Engine as children that drew us into the wonderful world of trains and railways. It was only fitting that we shone a spotlight on Thomas and his friends at The Greatest Gathering, and invite the filmmakers to premiere their fantastic documentary at our historic site,” said Ben Goodwin, Director of Communications UK and Ireland at Alstom.
Alstom’s three-day festival in Derby will be the world’s largest-ever gathering of historic and modern rolling stock. The Greatest Gathering takes place August 1-3, 2025 at Alstom’s Litchurch Lane Site in Derby. To learn more, visit https://www.alstom.com/greatest-gathering.
Watch the trailer of the documentary.
