Great Britain

From the novel by E. NESBIT. Even if The Railway Children did not have such a dramatic plot, it would still be a joy to watch for the warm, comforting glow of well-being it gives out. It takes us back to the Good Old Days we like to imagine they were when goodness and kindness and hard work brought the reward of happiness; when life was less complicated and love conquered all; when Christmas was really Christmas; when huge open fires crackled merrily in winter and summers were filled with sunshine and buttercups; when a man could do a lowly job, take pride in it and in himself and be respected for it. But The Railway Children is much more than a happy-ever-after dream, evoking nostalgia for a perfect world that exists only in our imaginations. E. Nesbit's writing had an astringency that has kept the episodic story fresh and undated. A father in prison for something he didn't do. A mother keeping brave and cheerful for the sake of her three children. A refugee Russian searching for his wife and family Dramas such as these do happen every day and it is inspiring to see E. Nesbit's characters face them with courage and laughter. Films that could be enjoyed by all the family were thin on the ground in 1971 when the distinguished character actor Lionel Jefferies turned director for the first time and took the risk of cutting his teeth on a much-loved story, long accepted as a classic.That it was a labour of love is apparent in every foot of this enchanting film with its exquisite photography by Arthur Ibbetson. No wonder Jefferies was able to cajole the lovely Dinah Sheridan (best remembered for her starring role in Genevieve)to return to the screen to play the mother of Jenny Agutter. Sally Thompsett and Gary Warren. William Mervyn as the kindly and generous Old Gentleman and Bernard Cribbins as the goodhearted but prickly railwayman are the other leading players in an excellent cast. MARJORIE BILBOW