The COMPLETE History of James the Red Engine - Sodor's Finest

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  • čas přidán 10. 07. 2024
  • *THIS VIDEO IS A RE-UPLOAD OF THE ORIGINAL posted on December 3, 2021.
    Heeeeeere's James! A series' retrospective on everyone's favorite character.
    INTRO SONG ▸ Headmaster Hastings' cover of James the Really Splendid Engine • The Really Splendid En...
    CHAPTERS:
    0:00 Intro
    1:52 James in The Railway Series
    12:05 James in the Model Series
    21:03 James in the CGI Series
    27:33 Conclusion
    ♫ MUSIC
    /0:01 The Really Splendid Engine (Cover ITSO Big Band) - Headmaster Hastings
    /1:53 The Rain Formerly Known as Purple - Chris Christodoulou
    /6:17 Stasis - Eagle-Eyed Tiger
    /12:06 James' Jazzy Theme - Thomas Reorchestrated
    /14:11 Fancy Free - Keith Mansfield
    /19:47 James' Triumph - Thomas Reorchestrated
    /21:03 Sunset Trip - Keith Mansfield
    /26:18 Puggsy - Matt Furniss
    /27:33 The Really Splendid Engine (Cover ITSO Big Band) - Headmaster Hastings

Komentáře • 496

  • @dylster8422
    @dylster8422 Před rokem +927

    If you touch his paintwork he will make you touch heaven.

  • @fruitloops2058
    @fruitloops2058 Před rokem +377

    Like I've said before:
    Kinda ironic how James was in a trio with the three *big tender* engines but is now with Thomas and Percy. Two *small tank* engines

    • @LittleNoddyLemmyVideos
      @LittleNoddyLemmyVideos Před rokem +73

      He used to be the smallest bird in his group, now he's da biggest bird

    • @marcusbierman5310
      @marcusbierman5310 Před rokem +39

      I always preferred James as part of the big engine trio & for Thomas, Percy, & Toby to be their own ltrio.

    • @Scrinwaipwr
      @Scrinwaipwr Před rokem +18

      ​@@marcusbierman5310 only logical now to make Gordon, Henry and Toby a trio.

    • @marcusbierman5310
      @marcusbierman5310 Před rokem +6

      @@Scrinwaipwr How many times has those 3 been the main characters is a story togther?

    • @Scrinwaipwr
      @Scrinwaipwr Před rokem +3

      @@marcusbierman5310 none I know of yet.

  • @cardinalprime4746
    @cardinalprime4746 Před rokem +252

    Watching James and Thomas go to verbal warfare against each other is hilarious

    • @cinnamonmantrainsareawesom7224
      @cinnamonmantrainsareawesom7224 Před rokem +17

      They are so chaotic

    • @Maidbit69
      @Maidbit69 Před 7 měsíci +18

      James: “THOMAS YOU IDIOT!!!! I’LL BUMP YOU OFF THESE *whistle*ING RAILS DONT EVEN TRY ME *whistle*!”
      Thomas: “YOU TOOK MY COACHES NOW I’LL TAKE YOUR LIFE”
      Toby: *just in the middle of the shed*

    • @Inkypages39
      @Inkypages39 Před 3 měsíci +3

      It really is. In my opinion, they have one of the funniest and best dynamics in the show.🤣

    • @CrossOfBayonne
      @CrossOfBayonne Před 2 měsíci +1

      Amusing to watch at least

  • @ThatCasualGamerGirl
    @ThatCasualGamerGirl Před rokem +155

    To quote someone else, we need a “James and Thomas sharing a braincell for _ minutes” because of how much they bicker with each other.

  • @Green_MnM_Commander_of_Antifa

    James is the 5'11 guy pretending to be the 6 foot guy

    • @ARG0T
      @ARG0T Před rokem +8

      Nothing wrong with being short. Not that 5'11" is short anyway but

    • @GDZ3pH4x
      @GDZ3pH4x Před 19 dny

      But hes over 6 feet tall - HiT Percy (sooorry sounded like "He dosent have tired)

    • @seanconnor5981
      @seanconnor5981 Před 17 dny

      Fr 💀

  • @DanGamingFan2846
    @DanGamingFan2846 Před rokem +365

    James is definitely one of, if not my favorite character in the entire franchise. Your analogy of him being a Honda Civic who wants to be a fancy Porsche like Gordon somes it up perfectly. And in a series that was notorious for flanderizing it's characters, sometimes to an absurd degree, it was great to have at least one character who stayed consistent throughout.

    • @vanessasandoval96
      @vanessasandoval96 Před rokem +13

      We’re evening hearing James really splendid engine by headmaster Hastings I sure hope he can make other Thomas songs
      Never never give up
      Troublesome trucks
      Busy
      Together we made it happen
      Boo Boo Choo Choo
      Emily

    • @watershipup7101
      @watershipup7101 Před rokem +7

      The most splendid engine on Sodor.

    • @vanessasandoval96
      @vanessasandoval96 Před rokem +1

      @@watershipup7101 what my comment about headmaster Hastings

    • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
      @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před rokem +6

      And that is something you shouldn't complain about for James.

    • @e-122psi3
      @e-122psi3 Před rokem +15

      James is also a guy who can't see the forest for the trees. He's a mixed traffic engine, he could easily trounce Gordon in pure versatility, but alas that would involve shunting and goods trains, and since Gordon considers those beneath him, so does James.

  • @giulianodervelociraptorder734

    I have a theory why James was arrogant again in S21:
    After the movie The Great Race, James was laughed at by Gordon and Henry for not winning. They said he's not the prettiest anymore. That's why James started showing off again, because the only red standard gauge engine on Sodor, which is why he was shocked that Rosie is red.

    • @alexanderbolton
      @alexanderbolton Před 11 měsíci +11

      Now just imagine if he met arthur though.

    • @giulianodervelociraptorder734
      @giulianodervelociraptorder734 Před 11 měsíci +5

      @@alexanderbolton Actually, Arthur is more brown than red.

    • @teaoftraffic
      @teaoftraffic Před 10 měsíci +11

      @@giulianodervelociraptorder734Isn’t he more of a Maroon color?

    • @Nic_2751
      @Nic_2751 Před 5 měsíci +2

      @@teaoftrafficstill way darker than Rosie

    • @cheteyaliyanage8721
      @cheteyaliyanage8721 Před 2 měsíci +2

      Not sure about henry, honestly him being hypokondriac somehow made him kinder but probably still eye rolls at James's boasting.

  • @ElectricoGamez
    @ElectricoGamez Před rokem +96

    9:05 "Toby is a wise old grandpa... That doesn't give a sh*t" The perfect description for an old engine like Toby.

    • @TheAutisticCapricorn811
      @TheAutisticCapricorn811 Před 7 měsíci +8

      And the perfect relatable personality display of common sense that Wilbert Awdry has ever created into a character like Toby.

    • @ElectricoGamez
      @ElectricoGamez Před 7 měsíci +5

      @@TheAutisticCapricorn811 for sure

    • @teaoftraffic
      @teaoftraffic Před 3 měsíci +6

      a true chaotic neutral

    • @GARILENA
      @GARILENA Před měsícem +2

      The PROPER way to write an old character

    • @ElectricoGamez
      @ElectricoGamez Před měsícem +2

      @@GARILENA true... true...

  • @tugsfan1617
    @tugsfan1617 Před rokem +168

    James is one of the best characters in the whole entire show

  • @MrDuckAndZatara
    @MrDuckAndZatara Před rokem +71

    Gotta love how Gordon, James, and Duncan never changed in the HIT/Miller era!

    • @Thomasmemoryscentral
      @Thomasmemoryscentral Před 11 měsíci +10

      Funny that the pompous, vain and grumble engines remain consistent in personality in the entire model series

  • @Eric_Ramirez_Gaming_101
    @Eric_Ramirez_Gaming_101 Před rokem +134

    James is one of my favorite characters from Thomas, and I think his consistency makes him such a stand-out.
    You know who else is consistent? You Tug, and all your content is consistently amazing

    • @vanessasandoval96
      @vanessasandoval96 Před rokem +9

      I love James the really splendid engine similar to Edward having a relationship with Gordon

  • @Fnaffan777
    @Fnaffan777 Před rokem +60

    Even though his personality did get extremely increased overtime, at least James always stayed true to his character. It’s also insane to think stuff like his dynamic with Thomas and his love for his paintwork were ideas that originated from the model series lol.

  • @thomasfriendsfan4334
    @thomasfriendsfan4334 Před rokem +43

    James is like one of my favorite characters in the show. Right up there with Duck. I loved him as a kid and I still love him now. He is the most splendid engine.

  • @Bloody_FOXY47040
    @Bloody_FOXY47040 Před 10 měsíci +32

    James is one of my favorite characters in all of the series! "Pouty James" is one of my favorite episodes of ALL TIME! I'm really glad that he was treated well in all forms.

    • @growlie2676
      @growlie2676 Před 7 měsíci +7

      I kinda see the episode as, James is in a good mood. Then Topham puts James in a bad mood.
      But then Thomas and Emily help put him back in a good mood again.

  • @e-122psi3
    @e-122psi3 Před rokem +18

    I don't really consider James and Thomas' arcs the same. Thomas' is a vindication arc. James is a redemption arc. Thomas is already at the bottom, he wants to get chances to prove he can be more than a bumbling station pilot, while James just gets into more and more trouble from his bad attitude, and has to atone for it. Thomas and the Trucks for example is light hearted, representing Thomas getting an opportunity only to possibly not be up to it. Troublesome Trucks however has STAKES, James is getting a second chance and has to really fight to overcome it, complimented by the earnest and determined sounding version of his theme played all throughout.

  • @ryhi5
    @ryhi5 Před rokem +41

    The sad thing is, James has never needed to prove anything. He was chosen to work on Sodor, and that automatically makes him special but he doesn’t see that.

    • @Thomasmemoryscentral
      @Thomasmemoryscentral Před 11 měsíci +5

      Keeping Up With James and James The Second Best seem to show the red engine a bit more humble even if he needs to have sense knocked into him again by an accident.
      In both cases, James tried to prove his worth over Edward in recieving a treat but once he derails twice over his ego, he wises up and shockingly accepts his position as the back engine to Edward's trains twice and without fuss.
      Once for Chrustmas presents and the other for a summer Express

    • @e-122psi3
      @e-122psi3 Před 9 měsíci +14

      There's also the fact he is a mixed traffic engine. He's built for versatility, thus an ideal engine. Alas that means dealing with rolling stock or shunting, jobs the classy big engines look down upon, thus so does James. James doesn't accept his true gift.

  • @fruitloops2058
    @fruitloops2058 Před rokem +69

    Journey Beyond Sodor should have been James' movie and I will never get over the fact it didn't happen.
    They showed it can actually work with Percy, why not give the 3rd main character one?

    • @dahoomancentipee9461
      @dahoomancentipee9461 Před 10 měsíci +7

      Bold of you to say James is the 3rd main character. And I too would be bold to agree with you. Which I do lol

    • @TackyFlamingo
      @TackyFlamingo Před 9 měsíci +9

      as a james stan, just because of this, i say it is a james movie. he owns it. he stole the show, especially with somebody has to be the favorite. absolute banger and so true, to me anyway

    • @growlie2676
      @growlie2676 Před 7 měsíci +2

      Now what If James was the main character in SLOTLT instead of Thomas?

    • @Nic_2751
      @Nic_2751 Před 5 měsíci +1

      See that’s what I THOUGHT when I initially heard it, the plot synopsis sounded like it was gonna be his movie, and him and Thomas’ roles were swapped in the final, like the great race, it shouldn’t have been about Thomas, AGAIN!

    • @wolfycakes136
      @wolfycakes136 Před 2 měsíci +2

      I always thought JBS just fits either James better. I mean, see the experimental engines. He was an experimental engine too. That would've been such an interesting character expansion moment.

  • @ShiningTimeStudios475
    @ShiningTimeStudios475 Před rokem +59

    James is the funnest character in the show. The show wouldn't be whole without our one and only James. Or should I say, " Our Red Rocket" ❤😂😂😂😊

    • @ShiningTimeStudios475
      @ShiningTimeStudios475 Před rokem +5

      James: Awwww, shucks!!! 😊 You all shouldn't have. 😊😢😂❤
      I know, I'm just the most splendid red engine on sodor.
      Me: James? 😠
      James: It's true!! 😊

    • @TackyFlamingo
      @TackyFlamingo Před 9 měsíci +2

      somebody has to be the favorite

  • @rottenroads1982
    @rottenroads1982 Před rokem +33

    James, one of the finest, and most “Splendid” engines on Sodor.

    • @vanessasandoval96
      @vanessasandoval96 Před rokem +4

      Best James episodes
      James goes buzz 🐝 buzz 🐝
      Make someone happy
      James and the red ballon
      Tickled pink James
      James in the dark
      James to the rescue
      Muddy Matters

  • @user-px1md1ef6l
    @user-px1md1ef6l Před 4 měsíci +9

    If Arrogance was a character, it would be him.

  • @Scrinwaipwr
    @Scrinwaipwr Před rokem +20

    I love how in the show James' theme tune has 2 distinct arrangements and both slap.
    (I know Duck has two too and so does Thomas if the show's own theme tune counts as one of them.)

    • @Thomasmemoryscentral
      @Thomasmemoryscentral Před 11 měsíci +1

      You mean the jazzy model series from the classic series and then the trumpet blares hit era version?

    • @Scrinwaipwr
      @Scrinwaipwr Před 11 měsíci +1

      @@Thomasmemoryscentral no. I mean from the original Clearwater series onwards. Nothing to do with sHiT Entertainment.

  • @ShadowKitty7908
    @ShadowKitty7908 Před 6 měsíci +6

    Honestly when you think about it. James being the more vane and attention seeking of the main cast is actually quite poetic when you realize how mundane his story was in the books. It’s like James needs to be as outstanding and confident character because he knows he’s not that significant as the others. He doesn’t have any tragic backstory or complex character growth. He’s just James.

    • @dadocta5168
      @dadocta5168 Před 6 měsíci +4

      For books, maybe. But the Hector Arc in the TV show really gave James some necessary character growth. Wonder if Tug will acknowledge it in his Retrospective Season 12 instalment.

  • @CharlesG-pt8xc
    @CharlesG-pt8xc Před 8 měsíci +12

    Differences between Edward and Toby.
    Edward: DON'T do a stupid thing.
    X character: does the stupid thing*
    Edward: I TOLD YOU not to do the stupid thing, and you did it anyway!
    Toby: go ahead, I won't stop you.
    X character:. Does the stupid thing*
    Toby: well, it's not like I didn't WARN you, or anything.

  • @TopHatTITAN
    @TopHatTITAN Před rokem +23

    12:20 I think the reason why James was there already in the show is primarily because the crew at the time didn't have the budget to build engine props to represent the loaned engines at the time. A quirk that relates to this is Henry's old shape. In the books, he is nearly identical to Gordon before his crash and rebuild. In the show, Henry only has a few differences between old and new. His footplate design is clearly his new shape one. James being there, red, and the number 5 is probably because the crew at the time didn't have the finances to build a temporary loaned engine.

  • @phenioxflameanimations2380
    @phenioxflameanimations2380 Před 6 měsíci +7

    James might be a jackass, But he's OUR jackass.

  • @PCMan8922
    @PCMan8922 Před rokem +19

    James Was Rev. Wilbert Awdry's Best Decision! He's Such a Hilarious Character! I Love Him!

  • @Nic_2751
    @Nic_2751 Před 5 měsíci +6

    James is absolutely one of the best adapted characters who’s objectively better in the series than the original source because they realized the value he truly held and ran with it, did it go overboard at times? Yeah, but I wouldn’t have it any other way…

  • @funnyhappystudios
    @funnyhappystudios Před rokem +15

    I’m sorry, but I REALLY LOVE this shot right here 0:13 The sun reflecting off of James, the waterfall, the trees, EVERYTHING!!!

  • @malachimuhammad-dy2ow
    @malachimuhammad-dy2ow Před 6 měsíci +5

    Sometimes, you'll see James pulling the express.

  • @ItsCarlos563
    @ItsCarlos563 Před rokem +17

    *"I'm a splendid engine."* answered James *"Ready for anything. You never see my paint dirty."*
    Good to see this video back again :)

    • @s.p.d.magentaranger1822
      @s.p.d.magentaranger1822 Před rokem +5

      "Oh!" Said Toby innocently. "That's why you once needed bootlaces, to be ready, I suppose!"

  • @drewzero1
    @drewzero1 Před rokem +7

    Something I've noticed about James is that despite putting on the vain and cocky attitude, he's actually self-conscious and sometimes uncertain of himself inside. After taunting Gordon about getting stuck on the turntable in Tenders and Turntables, he worries about getting stuck himself. I don't remember for sure but I think I remember him secretly doubting himself after boasting to Gordon in Leaves as well.

    • @e-122psi3
      @e-122psi3 Před rokem +3

      This was present from the beginning really. Notice the snit fit he makes when he gets in trouble over the Fat Controller's top hat, how he thinks the passengers only like Gordon and then later when he's shut in the shed and just cries to himself. It's something not seen as much with James in the later RWS books but the show toys with it a lot.

    • @fanofeverything30465
      @fanofeverything30465 Před rokem

      He does

    • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
      @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před 9 měsíci +4

      The CGI Brenner era should have shown that self-conscious and sometimes uncertain side in some episodes.

    • @fanofeverything30465
      @fanofeverything30465 Před 9 měsíci

      @@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Yes indeed

  • @samuelfarris1949
    @samuelfarris1949 Před rokem +25

    I wouldn't call James as being in denial of himself more than he gets carried away in the moment at times, especially when he's at the centre of attention. This is why you find himself as relatable as he is funny. It was clear to Awdry that he was on to a winner character despite the rather half-baked way that the book he wrote centred around him came out, and sought to continue with him even after deciding as Sir Topham Hatt did to give Henry a fair chance. I kind of got the idea James had been meant to replace Henry as a regular when he was first introduced, before Awdry changed his mind without removing James. Regards, Samuel Farris.

    • @e-122psi3
      @e-122psi3 Před 9 měsíci +3

      One detail I liked is how Gordon and James seemed to be brought in to replace Henry, both in and out canon, and they get a bit meta by how high strung they get when Henry gets fixed up, that Sir Topham has the engine he wants now so technically doesn't need them anymore. Of course Sir Topham (and Awdry) doesn't see it that way but the two are thin skinned engines. :P

  • @prismalion6923
    @prismalion6923 Před rokem +11

    having just finished season 5, i can safely say that James is one of my favorites; he's hilarious and i love his scrunched up angry faces so much!

  • @user-ix6dm6tu4f
    @user-ix6dm6tu4f Před 10 měsíci +11

    James is, in a way, kinda like people with O- blood. People with this blood can donate to anyone, but nobody can donate to them. James is an important part in everyone's arcs but doesn't have one himslef.

  • @Dnb_RailFan8698
    @Dnb_RailFan8698 Před rokem +17

    20:11
    Percy: Whats a Railway Testicles?
    *Gordon Eyes Percy Questioning what he'd just said*

    • @ElectricoGamez
      @ElectricoGamez Před rokem +8

      I'm dying from that quote

    • @vizor4888
      @vizor4888 Před 2 měsíci +2

      What episode is that?

    • @AliseUnknown
      @AliseUnknown Před 2 měsíci

      ​@@vizor4888 Spic and Span

    • @jacobrumens9601
      @jacobrumens9601 Před 2 měsíci

      Gordon didn’t need to say anything to that. His face just said it all there.

    • @jacobrumens9601
      @jacobrumens9601 Před 2 měsíci +1

      @@vizor4888Spic and Span from Season 8.

  • @TheAutisticCapricorn811
    @TheAutisticCapricorn811 Před 6 měsíci +4

    The most mentioned and unforgettable character in the franchise that always comes to mind. He isn't one of my favorite, by any means, but he is a character that just exists out-of-the-blue to turn simply red. Growing up watchin' the show, I couldn't exactly make a take on what opinion of James could define him. But after re-reading the books and rewatching the TV series in both classic era and some bits of the CGI era, I wholeheartedly agree that the model series is definitely James' definitive portrayal purpose as a character. And I think him in that era of the whole franchise will never be forgotten.

  • @Spookyybuy
    @Spookyybuy Před rokem +15

    James really is a one of a kind engine

  • @funnyhappystudios
    @funnyhappystudios Před rokem +18

    20:15 For a moment I actually thought that was from the episode 😂😂😂😂

  • @LegendaryCaptain
    @LegendaryCaptain Před rokem +35

    In my opinion James is the absolute best character when it comes to character dynamics you can put him with anyone and there is a lot of story potential one dynamic I love that you didn't mention was Duncan I love how a good number of the narrow gauge engines are counterparts to standard gauge engines like Sir Handel to Gordon, but what I love about James and Duncan is they are both consistently the lovable complaining dumbasses no matter what era and the few moments they interacted were so memorable hell Duncan's Bluff was a really great hit era episode because of that. As for missed dynamics I say a Daisy one in the brenner era would've been amazing two massive drama queens would've been hilarious, James with the china clay twins would've been hilarious too, I also would've loved to see James put Spencer in his place since Spencer has an even higher ego of himself.

  • @NitroIndigo
    @NitroIndigo Před rokem +19

    I've been waiting for this! I've had an appreciation for James over the past few weeks, mainly because I rewatched The Adventure Begins and the crash scene made me feel sorry for him. Also, I like red.

  • @Thunderbolt_1000_Siren
    @Thunderbolt_1000_Siren Před 9 měsíci +5

    James is by far my favorite character of the show. I relate to him quite a bit and he's just overall fun. Without that vanity James isnt James.

  • @trainjack16
    @trainjack16 Před 9 měsíci +6

    James is my favorite character from Thomas. I understand that he does tend to go overboard when trying to show he is the best, but he still has a big heart made of gold and still wants to be a really useful engine and he does have a caring side. It’s why I like him

  • @TheREALwymario
    @TheREALwymario Před rokem +10

    James was my favorite character as a kid. I had his Best of James DVD and James and the Red Balloon, so I got tons of exposure to him, and George Carlin's interpretation of his voice was super entertaining. He also has the best character theme, IMO.

  • @leannehamilton2163
    @leannehamilton2163 Před rokem +12

    Even though I haven’t grew up with the RWS books. I loved James as a kid. His personality and everything about him is excellent. He has always been my favorite character in the model series and the CGI series. He will be always the #1 engine in my heart.

  • @ElectricoGamez
    @ElectricoGamez Před rokem +5

    7:02 "Thomas: A cocky sh*t head that's very full of himself. He longs to pull trains, and has several obstacles to conquer before he can do so. He works hard for several months, and finally proves just how mature he's become when he rescues a fellow engine. He gets promoted from station pilot to running his own branch line.
    James: A cocky sh*t head that is very full of himself. He longs to pull trains and has several obstacles to conquer before he can do so. He works hard for several months, and finally proves himss- oh... James's arc was basically just Thomas's again." I had the same reaction. 🗿

  • @altermike3197
    @altermike3197 Před rokem +34

    It sucks that you had to reupload all of these, but if it helps, I still think your content is splendid! I love listening to facts about media I'm passionate about

  • @SuperCosmicMutantSquid
    @SuperCosmicMutantSquid Před rokem +8

    I mentioned this in the original upload but during maybe around 2018-2019 I had this kick of rewatching the episode compilation of the model series episodes on the whim and despite having grown up with Shining Time Station, watching the series anew was a trip and it quickly led to me liking James the most out of all of the characters. I don't know what it is about James that makes him stand out but going through all the seasons, I think maybe it IS how well he gels with Thomas and Percy that makes him the perfect part of the original 'faces' of the series. Some might argue that he's like Gordon (TV series wise) in how they're both very prideful of their specific talents and roles but like I mentioned before, James just seems to get along a lot better with Thomas and Percy and because of that we see better sides of him when he's not trying to be on the same level as or even act OVER Gordon.
    Gorden and James are clearly rivals that James begrudgingly follows along with but him, Thomas and Percy are like BROTHERS. Sure, James picks on them and reminds them where they belong but they are such a wonderful dynamic and he serves as the perfect 'older brother' of the three, especially in Journey Beyond Sodor where he was more or less the older, more mature brother who had to go fetch his younger brother out of trouble while apologizing for being too hard on him and showing that he did care for him.
    And yes, the consistency of James' character throughout the years worked but if there is any complaint I have on that, it's just that in the books he didn't seem to have a real arc compared to the other characters. He never seemed to get over his issues with diesels or it was just handled in such a weak way and just PFFT. THE END. In terms of the show, I think he was easy to keep consistent due to his personality; he's essentially the, for lack of better terms, snooty one and I think a lot of writers had an easier time keeping up with that especially as they made the how more 'kiddie' since they could use him for morals a lot easier, even if it was to his detriment. I'm just glad the Brenner era didn't go too far with this (until BWBA) and played off his personality a lot like Duncan or Mike where their abrasiveness parts are balanced out by the good parts in them as well so in the end James ended up as a guy who wants to be on top, wants to show off that he's the best but in the end when he stumbles you laugh but you go right over and pick him back up. I just can't help but love the show-off.

  • @willisskull2676
    @willisskull2676 Před 11 měsíci +11

    I have no idea why James became my favorite engine as a kid. Even rewatching the model series later on, he's still my favorite. Is it because he is a jerk, vain, or self-centered? Gordon acts pompous, but he was never my favorite as a kid. Is it because he is kind of an underdog? It really makes me think. Thank you for the video and for reuploading it. Sorry you had to go through all the BS with CZcams, love your channel.

    • @growlie2676
      @growlie2676 Před 7 měsíci

      I have no idea why James's became (One of) my favorite engine either. But it might've been the Super Engine episode.

  • @ShiningTimeStudios475
    @ShiningTimeStudios475 Před rokem +14

    James is the funnest character in the show. The show wouldn't be whole without our one and only James. Or should I say, " Our Red Rocket"

  • @SquirrelWatcher
    @SquirrelWatcher Před rokem +14

    James has the BEST theme song in the franchise (the jazz version)

  • @thesudriana016
    @thesudriana016 Před rokem +15

    I always presume that Points of No Return from the Annuals could've perhaps taken place between The Adventure Begins and Journey Beyond Sodor, mostly due to James' opinion on branch lines, how he wanted one of his own from the start before being dismayed years later of having to work on Thomas' after his own experience.

    • @vanessasandoval96
      @vanessasandoval96 Před rokem +2

      Yeah be honest I like Journey Beyond Sodor when Thomas and James go home singing nobody has to be the favorite

  • @Thomasboi01
    @Thomasboi01 Před rokem +6

    I was wondering where the whole James with wooden brake blocks came from and now I understand why he did thank you for the information on that Unlucky Tug!

  • @Mashfan6507
    @Mashfan6507 Před rokem +9

    This made me really like James more than I ever have. So glad that your channel is back, love your work!

  • @christellejean-charlesmwen7120
    @christellejean-charlesmwen7120 Před 10 měsíci +5

    And now I kind of feel bad for James

  • @asteroidrules
    @asteroidrules Před 8 měsíci +5

    While one could call it character stagnation, I do like how James manages to maintain his ego despite the constant put-downs. He's infinitely self-confident and, unlike most of the bigger engines, doesn't have a breakdown when things don't go his way, basically the only way to ever get to him is messing with his paint. His attitude is always either "it's my time to shine" or "I'll get em next time."

  • @thecrazycharlatan5295
    @thecrazycharlatan5295 Před rokem +9

    When it comes to any story or creative piece of art you need to hook your audience, and I’m very pleased with your intro to hook the audience in. It’s creative, and quite catchy. 🤩👏

  • @MRCSANY
    @MRCSANY Před rokem +6

    16:09 This is why James goes “mmmm -w-“ when Gordon says “James is a big engine” in TATMR

  • @missmanxee
    @missmanxee Před 7 měsíci +3

    My favorite episodes of James are in both the model series and the CGI series and I love his brilliant song Somebody has to be the favorite in Journey Beyond Sodor movie thanks for sharing this great video highlighting the one and only James the red engine 👍❤️🚂

  • @GLee-oe3op
    @GLee-oe3op Před rokem +6

    Come to think of it we really don’t see too many red engines out there. Off the top of my head there’s the LMS Coronations, Southern Pacific GS northerns and the Santa Fe warbonnets, technically the Metro North M8s too but those are EMUs not engines. James is just that iconic

  • @heitorlima427
    @heitorlima427 Před 3 měsíci +3

    james, it's my favorite train in the thomas franchise, i even bought the 75th anniversary thomas train master model. He is the most magnificent locomotive I have ever seen.

  • @aikokyomai
    @aikokyomai Před rokem +2

    The hotheaded jackass comment reminded me of my story characters, James is such a hilarious inspiration for many things, because we all had a James moment at one point in our lives.

  • @Your_Casual_Fan
    @Your_Casual_Fan Před rokem +6

    I remember a theory that James has personality disorder, he considered he was small when he was black. He made a fool of himself, but ever since he got his red coat of paint he felt.. different. Confident. Ridded his hindrance of disappointment. He was different, Unique, Not a joke. Something new. For him being a experiment was..not enough. He now felt special. He grew cocky, and that's how he would stay. That's why when he changes to pink, he thought he would stand out but..not in his way, not in the way he was thought to be. He soon triumphs it but after that, he stuck to his confident self. He knew although it may become rough, he wouldn't have it any other way. He's him . A cocky, self-centred character who deems himself important, as no one else does. That shows through his clash with other characters. He changes, but becomes cocky still because he's... *Consistent* . Although he may have his very bad cons, he is who he wants to be. That's another thing that makes him special. He is the definition of grabbing a star, when you reach out for one. He doesn't give it up. That is what makes James, in most opinions, just as great as the others although not seen that way.

  • @alfiebassett5658
    @alfiebassett5658 Před 6 měsíci +4

    For the take i would use for my second favourite characters arc in the show it would 100% be model series mostly hit era and mid and late classic era

  • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967

    At least James is still in character in CGI and very consitant, that's something to be happy for. When Season 21 was announced, I wonder what new stories lie in store for Thomas and his friends and when The Fastest Red Engine on Sodor begins with James showing off and being vain as usual, it doesn't disappoint me at all since I know that he's just being himself as usual which sadly you all didn't do that instead of complaining.

    • @giulianodervelociraptorder734
      @giulianodervelociraptorder734 Před rokem +4

      I have a theory why James was arrogant again in S21:
      After the movie The Great Race, James was laughed at by Gordon and Henry for not winning. They said he's not the prettiest anymore. That's why James started showing off again, because the only red standard gauge engine on Sodor, which is why he was shocked that Rosie is red.
      P.s Sorry for my English.

    • @vanessasandoval96
      @vanessasandoval96 Před rokem +1

      Yeah I didn’t like season 21-24 because of Mattel so crappy

    • @masterpeter1913
      @masterpeter1913 Před rokem +5

      ​​@@vanessasandoval96 Honestly I think S21 is overhated.

    • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
      @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před rokem +4

      @@vanessasandoval96 Michael White's episodes are good.

    • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
      @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před rokem +4

      @@giulianodervelociraptorder734 Or perhaps he just resumes being himself, no more. Some things never change as we all know.

  • @UlyssesPSC
    @UlyssesPSC Před rokem +8

    I will never apologize for being hyperfixated on this series

  • @bennewbury2572
    @bennewbury2572 Před rokem +3

    I’ve been waiting for this video!
    James’ retrospective here is one of your best videos Tug.
    Excellent.

  • @s.a.8804
    @s.a.8804 Před rokem +7

    I like how when he talk about James in BWBA he just decided to forget about “Apology impossible”

    • @s.p.d.magentaranger1822
      @s.p.d.magentaranger1822 Před rokem

      TBF, there are a few things I enjoy about that episode, the "It's not me" exchange, the fantasy sequence where Paxton is only concerned with falling in the water.

    • @s.a.8804
      @s.a.8804 Před rokem +1

      @@s.p.d.magentaranger1822 ok, but James being an unlikeable bully just ruin the episode.

    • @s.p.d.magentaranger1822
      @s.p.d.magentaranger1822 Před rokem +1

      @@s.a.8804 Yea, can't argue with that. Poor Philip didn't deserve that.

    • @s.a.8804
      @s.a.8804 Před rokem +2

      @@s.p.d.magentaranger1822 I know. I’m honestly starting to think that Mattel wanted to represent the fandom of their reaction of Philip of all characters being with Edward.

    • @s.p.d.magentaranger1822
      @s.p.d.magentaranger1822 Před rokem

      @@s.a.8804 In that case they failed miserably lol

  • @chargoesboom6990
    @chargoesboom6990 Před rokem +5

    George Carlin James: Mega Roaster
    Alec Baldwin James: "Pride" Of The Line
    Michael Brandon James: Egotistical Individual

  • @Failedjamed
    @Failedjamed Před rokem +7

    I like James in the series he was my favorite character. I like the black paint work on him more than the red. People like Victor Tanzig make James even more enjoyable since he isn’t all in vain or selfish.

  • @Mr.JackGiles1089
    @Mr.JackGiles1089 Před rokem +6

    The beginning never gets old

  • @cinnamonmantrainsareawesom7224

    James is like a dramatic theater kid

  • @DieselD7101
    @DieselD7101 Před rokem +5

    At last, the splendid red engine’s time in the spotlight!

  • @pranavrao6370
    @pranavrao6370 Před rokem +5

    You should do a Sodor's Finest on the Steam Team and how they functioned in S8-12, Nitrogen era, Brenner era, and BWBA

  • @Ryder-a-Blaze
    @Ryder-a-Blaze Před rokem +4

    James’s theme being jazz themed is so right

  • @DragonStar524
    @DragonStar524 Před 4 měsíci +2

    There's a video that theorizes that James has PTSD and DID from his trauma from the crash.

  • @mikestudioz216
    @mikestudioz216 Před rokem +13

    U know, James is a lot like Starscream; Both try to be the best, but end up failing time and time again

    • @s.p.d.magentaranger1822
      @s.p.d.magentaranger1822 Před rokem +11

      "GORDON HAS FALLEN! I, James, am your new leader!" (Coughs)

    • @mikestudioz216
      @mikestudioz216 Před rokem +5

      @@s.p.d.magentaranger1822 lol

    • @haveacalmheart3010
      @haveacalmheart3010 Před 11 měsíci +3

      "All hail James!"
      "I can't hear you!"
      "All hail James!"
      "One more time!"
      "All hail James! All hail James!"
      Thomas (or Henry): "This is going to be juicy..."

    • @mikestudioz216
      @mikestudioz216 Před 11 měsíci +2

      @@haveacalmheart3010 it has to be Gordon

    • @haveacalmheart3010
      @haveacalmheart3010 Před 11 měsíci +3

      @@mikestudioz216 Yeah, most likely

  • @jjbackon
    @jjbackon Před rokem +1

    Ok great I love this video, glad this was re-uploaded

  • @williamshaw8112
    @williamshaw8112 Před 6 měsíci +1

    “What’s a railway testicles?” made me loose my shit lmfao

  • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
    @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před 10 měsíci +5

    James can still do his catchphrase "Here's James" when not showing off in the show because it's a great one for him.

    • @chavopatyfanstudios2005
      @chavopatyfanstudios2005 Před 9 měsíci +1

      Despite being a little bit flanderized

    • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
      @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před 6 měsíci +1

      @@chavopatyfanstudios2005 Not to me it isn't. Catchphrases are never flanderized. He never has a signature catchphrase to himself before like Thomas or Gordon.

    • @chavopatyfanstudios2005
      @chavopatyfanstudios2005 Před 6 měsíci

      @@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 no not the catchpharses the persona

    • @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967
      @DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 Před 6 měsíci +1

      @@chavopatyfanstudios2005 If he's consistent in character then it should be fine for you since it's not flanderized to me.

    • @chavopatyfanstudios2005
      @chavopatyfanstudios2005 Před 6 měsíci

      @@DavidBContentExtravaganza3967 but what do you dislike is that how gordon acted a jerk to his brother

  • @rodneyskinnermusic
    @rodneyskinnermusic Před 2 měsíci +2

    James is one of my favorite characters from Thomas and Friends. He always wants to be the center of attention, He's his own Number 1 Fan. His vain/arrogant attitude always makes me laugh in addition to his short temper. His theme of course is very catchy, James must be a jazz fanatic. 😁

  • @YurtFerguson
    @YurtFerguson Před rokem +8

    James also has the best theme song

  • @Mr.Stefano2
    @Mr.Stefano2 Před měsícem

    James is one of my favorite characters. He was since I was really little. Liked how this video showed how the character changed over the years. :)

  • @Kingdarrdarr_17
    @Kingdarrdarr_17 Před rokem +2

    Love how you used the headmaster hastings James song at the beginning

  • @adventuresofamtrakcascades301

    14:29 James: L O O K A T M E 15:52 18:01

  • @thegoodbaconplays7271
    @thegoodbaconplays7271 Před 10 měsíci +3

    James looks like that one uncle that all the kids will like.

  • @itfigurescomics6704
    @itfigurescomics6704 Před 8 měsíci +2

    James is that one jerk that we'll always strive to never be and we'll always love him for it XD

  • @Silvertardis
    @Silvertardis Před rokem +14

    Consistent, fun, visually stunning and with the catchiest theme tune out of all the characters, it's little wonder that James is still my favourite character after all these years!

    • @Scrinwaipwr
      @Scrinwaipwr Před rokem +3

      Great as James is, Henry might rival him for catchiest theme tune.

    • @dahoomancentipee9461
      @dahoomancentipee9461 Před 10 měsíci

      Both are really good but nothing slaps as hard as Henry's theme does when he starts pulling the Flying Kipper for the first time. Still sends chills down my spine 30 years later.

  • @ek9509
    @ek9509 Před 10 měsíci +4

    Splendid video. Pun intended.

  • @killdozer7792
    @killdozer7792 Před 7 měsíci +2

    Y'know, I just remembered something that showcased just how underutilized James was in the Railway Series - the Thomas the Tank Engine Collection. It was a compilation book featuring various RWS stories, each specifically dedicated to the main seven engines - Thomas, Edward, Henry, Gordon, James, Percy and Toby. Each engine had stories from their spotlight books featured, obviously, but they also had other significant stories featured; Edward had "Edward's Exploit", Henry had "Super Rescue", etc.
    In total, most of the characters had at least seven stories, but some had much more. Percy, for example, outside of his spotlight book, had seven stories featured in his section, bringing the grand total of Percy stories in the compilation up to eleven. Now, how many stories did James have in the compilation, outside his spotlight book?
    Buzz Buzz.... and that was it. Just five stories, and only one wasn't in his spotlight book. That says a lot, doesn't it?

  • @LGJoshhy
    @LGJoshhy Před rokem

    I HAVE WAITING FOR THIS VIDEOOOO

  • @Xalerdane
    @Xalerdane Před rokem +3

    26:45 Ten bucks says originally James was going to call himself _Red_ Rocket, but someone caught it between initial draft and final script and the writer had to play dumb.

  • @sealionstudios8597
    @sealionstudios8597 Před rokem +5

    Best character of the franchise. 'Nuff said ✌️

  • @zacharyspinks6207
    @zacharyspinks6207 Před 3 měsíci +1

    James Is the Best Character in the Series, I Enjoyed this Video.

  • @ShinySonic77
    @ShinySonic77 Před 10 měsíci +3

    20:15 WhAtS a RaIlWaY *tEsTiClE*

  • @cvgthedaydreamfairygirl8092

    He can be cocky and malicious at times, but he has good in him :)

  • @deanielperez0112
    @deanielperez0112 Před 4 měsíci +1

    James thinks he was one of the most reddest and brightest engine on Sodor. Despite being a mixed-traffic engine, he likes pulling Slip Coaches but hates pulling oil and diesel tankers.

  • @RespectTheLogos3
    @RespectTheLogos3 Před 4 měsíci +5

    James’s angry face makes me laugh

  • @joshuaW5621
    @joshuaW5621 Před 2 měsíci

    I don’t blame James for being so proud of his red paint. That is admittedly a nice livery he has.

  • @NoobyNubguy
    @NoobyNubguy Před 6 měsíci +1

    James has always been my favorite, his character is fantastic, he looks really good (always been one of my favorite designs) has some great episodes, and more!
    Yknow I guess that applies to everyone in the main gang.
    They all have good design, good character, and good stories… eh I just like James the best.
    Really goes to show how well written the main characters are in the RWS and TVS

  • @ThomastheCameraHog
    @ThomastheCameraHog Před rokem

    James is my favorite character, so this video is rather special for me.