The Railway Children Return, the 2022 sequel to the classic 1970 film, is now available to stream in the UK on Amazon Prime Video. The period drama stars Jenny Agutter, best known to modern audiences as Sister Julienne in BBC One's Call the Midwife, and Sheridan Smith.
Agutter first gained fame for her role as Bobbie Waterbury in the original The Railway Children, a part she played in a 1968 TV adaptation and the 1970 film. She also portrayed the mother in a 2000 ITV remake. The sequel sees her reprise her iconic role as Bobbie, now an adult living in the village of Oakworth.
Sequel set in 1944
The film is set during the Second World War, with the action taking place in Oakworth in 1944. After major cities become unsafe, three children are evacuated to the countryside, where they meet Bobbie and her adult daughter Annie, played by Sheridan Smith. The children soon discover an injured American soldier at the nearby railyard and attempt to help him return home.
Tom Courtenay stars as Uncle Walter, with John Bradley as Richard, KJ Aikens as Abe, Beau Gadsdon as Lily Watts, Eden Hamilton as Pattie Watts, Zac Cudby as Ted Watts, and Austin Haynes as Thomas Waterbury. The film is directed by Morgan Matthews from a screenplay by Danny Brocklehurst.
Fan reactions
Viewers have praised the film on Rotten Tomatoes, with one writing: "Perfect sequel to the original, picking up many social and ethical themes of the time, many still relevant today. Great casting, strong script, and excellent photography." Another said: "Really good movie with excellent acting and a storyline that pulls you in", while a third called it "A World War II story that I've never heard about. It was very well done."
One fan described it as "Good wholesome entertainment. Exciting, suspenseful, and inspirational", and another added: "Exceptional movie with real intent and messages given." A further review said: "It was a beautifully told story with a true meaning of resilience, courage, strength, and making your own family when hard times are around."
Call the Midwife is streaming on BBC iPlayer, while The Railway Children Return is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
