Tram Trouble (Thomas & Friends)

"Tram Trouble (Thomas & Friends)"
Flora had so much potential! It's unfortunate that she was treated unfairly.
Series: Thomas & Friends Part of Season: 12 Episode Number: 13 Air Date: 17 September 2008 (UK) 7 December 2008 (US) Writer: Sharon Miller Director: Stephen Asquith Previous episode: "James Works it Out" Next episode: "Don't Go Back"

"Tram Trouble" is the thirteenth episode of Season 12 of Thomas & Friends.

Plot

Toby and a newly introduced steam tram, Flora, are set to lead a parade in Great Waterton. However, Thomas believes Toby prefers to be the sole leader of the event and attempts to divert Flora's attention.

Why It's Trouble

1. The primary issue with this episode is its failure to capitalize on a highly unique and intriguing concept. Toby, having been the sole steam tram on Sodor for many years, encountering another steam tram for the first time held immense potential. Regrettably, this potential was not fully realized.
2. Thomas, as usual in Seasons 12-16 is portrayed as a clueless idiot, hastily presuming that Toby would be displeased with Flora's arrival and preferring to lead the parade solo, even though he should know Toby is not that selfish.
3. Flora is a typical one-off character lacking personality, introduced abruptly without a proper backstory explaining her origins, her reasons for being on Sodor, or any significant details about her character. To compound the issue, she never appears or is mentioned again after this episode, which not only cements her squandered potential but also leaves many questions about her fate unanswered. Is she still on Sodor, simply unseen? Or has she left the island altogether?
4. Typical of Seasons 9-16, Toby appears as a coward, expressing his fear of leading the parade alone, which explains why he hasn't left his shed. Wouldn't Toby face consequences for hiding in his shed instead of performing his duties?
5. Typical of Season 12, the integration of CGI animation within the live-action setting has not aged well.
6. As typical for Seasons 9-16, this episode follows the three strikes formula.

Redeeming Qualities

1. The concept of Toby encountering another steam tram is quite unique and intriguing; however, it was unfortunately not well-executed.
2. Flora may be a character lacking in personality, but she compensates with her friendliness and appealing design.
3. Great Waterton is featured in this episode.
4. Good ending: Thomas and Toby become good friends with Flora, and she and Toby lead the parade together.

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