Choo-choo! Thomas rides to big-screen

Thomas the Tank Engine will be arriving on the big screen soon, as HIT Entertainment is planning to develop a feature film about the energetic locomotive from the popular children's books and television shows.

The Hollywood Reporter says former second unit director Josh Klausner will write the script. Klausner recently wrote "Shrek The Third," and he worked on the upcoming flicks "Date Night" and "Shrek Forever After."

"Thomas," of course, centers on the aventures of the locomotive and his friends, who usually teach younger kids good values and valuable lessons. The film, set for release in 2011, will be a mix of live-action and CGI.

Everywhere you look, toys and board games are hitting the big screen. Mattel's Barbie is one recent project that hit development, and apparently, Barney and Bob the Builder will also show up in cinemas at one point.

I was never a big "Thomas" fan, but I do recall watching the TV show every now and then when I was a kid. I don't know... maybe there was nothing better on back then. Choo-choo to that.