U certificateThe Railway Children is a Film programme that first aired in 1970 and has been classified a U certificate.

The Railway Children is a 4 star programme

Image for the Film programme "The Railway Children"

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The Railway Children (1970)

Directed by
Lionel Jeffries

It's a close-run thing, but despite the superb 2000 TV remake, the 1970 film adaptation of E Nesbit's classic children's tale remains the definitive version. With assured yet sensitive direction from Lionel Jeffries, it's an enduring, humorous and poignant tale about three Edwardian children who - after their father has disappeared - move with their mother to the Yorkshire countryside to start a new life. Here the local railway becomes their lifeline, and a source of hope and adventure.

As the tale progresses, the eldest of the children - Bobbie, superbly played by teenager Jenny Agutter - believes that there's a chance to track down their father through the kindness of a passenger that they regularly see on the train. Her siblings - played by Sally Thomsett and Gary Warren - offer strong support, but it's Bernard Cribbins - as station porter Albert Perks - who turns in a memorable performance, befriending the children and helping them in their endeavours.

Beautifully filmed with evocative shots of puffing steam trains and rolling English countryside, this is a wonderfully nostalgic and very enjoyable family film. Highly recommended.

Written by ,

Genre: Film

Running Time: 100 minutes (approx)

Production Year: 1970

Rating:
4/5 Stars

Classification: U Certificate

Production Country: UK

Filmed in Colour

Cast

Dinah Sheridan...Mrs. Waterbury
Image for Bernard CribbinsBernard Cribbins...Albert Perks
William Mervyn...Old Gentleman
Iain Cuthbertson...Charles Waterbury
Image for Jenny AgutterJenny Agutter...Bobbie Waterbury
Sally Thomsett...Phyllis Waterbury
Gary Warren...Peter Waterbury
Peter Bromilow...Doctor
Gordon Whiting...Russian
Ann Lancaster...Ruth
Beatrix Mackey...Aunt Emma
Deddie Davies...Mrs. Perks
Christopher Witty...Jim
David Lodge...Bandmaster
Image for Brenda CowlingBrenda Cowling...Mrs. Viney