Thomas & Friends: Day of the Diesels

Movie review by Renee Longstreet, Common Sense Media
Thomas & Friends: Day of the Diesels Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 3+

The engines learn how to handle hurt feelings.

NR 2011 58 minutes
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Parents say

age 4+

Based on 2 reviews

Kids say

age 6+

Based on 9 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this movie.

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What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that very young kids will be entertained by this simple tale told using easy-to-understand language, familiar characters, and conflicts which are resolved comfortably. There are a few mildly suspenseful scenes -- including two threatening fires, some menacing behavior by a gang of diesel engines, and Thomas being held captive until Percy can rescue him. Even the villains learn important lessons and change their behavior. Promotional material included with the DVD, as well as previews before the feature, advertise Thomas products, along with LeapFrog, Angelina Ballerina, etc.

Community Reviews

Kira M.
Kira M. Adult
November 18, 2016
age 4+
My twins love it, all other Thomas movies they have seen.
brinoni
brinoni Adult
July 6, 2013
age 4+

Probably skip this one

This movie is ok, not the best of the Thomas franchise. The diesel engines trick Percy into thinking he is their friend to manipulate him. They lie, steal and take Thomas and Kevin hostage. Diesel 10 was menacing and sinister, hubby actually found him quite creepy. While all works out in the end when the steamers and diesels work together, there is a nasty undertone that Mr 3 had trouble comprehending. We don't need to watch it again but it may be more fun for an older child who can discuss the concepts of trust, honesty, friendship and forgiveness.
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Percy feels left out when Thomas makes friends with Belle and Flynn, two new fire-fighting steamers. The Diesels, jealous of all the "luxuries" that the Steam Engines seem to have, are happy to use Percy's hurt feelings and his desire to be special to trick him into helping them take over The Steam Works. In the end, everyone learns important lessons about being special, how to be a good friend, and the value of working together.

Is It Any Good?

DAY OF THE DIESELS offers standard Thomas fare, this time with Percy in the forefront. There are more characters (including actual villains) in this story, as well more than the usual number of incidents and some surprisingly complex motives. Still, the likable steam engines "gasp" and "huff" their way to an expected happy ending.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about Percy's behavior in this story. What are some of the choices that he makes? How does he feel when he realizes what he has done? Have you been in a situation similar to Percy's?

  • Why were the Diesels trying to take over The Steam Works? What did they really want?

  • Percy felt left out when Thomas made new friends. Should he have told Thomas that his feelings were hurt? What would you do if that happened to you?

Movie Details

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