'The Polar Express': Liam Neeson Replaces Tom Hanks in Lesser Known Version

The Polar Express (2004) is one of the most memorable Christmas classics. While Robert Zemeckis‘ 3D-animated adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 storybook didn’t get off on the right foot with audiences due to its “uncanny valley” motion-capture characters, the film has since found a place in our hearts. Now, the animation appears only to accentuate the film’s endless charm, surreal dream-like atmosphere, and whimsical nature.

The film stars Tom Hanks (Toy Story, Cast Away), who takes on multiple roles, including the adult version of the main character (credited simply as “Hero Boy”), Hero Boy’s father, the Conductor, Santa Claus, the Hobo, and an Ebenezer Scrooge puppet. But did you know there’s a version of The Polar Express in which actor Liam Neeson takes on these roles?

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In 2017, Andersen Press published a reprint of Allsburg’s original picture book accompanied by an audio CD featuring Liam Neeson as the narrator.

Neeson’s gentle, somewhat sleepy narration compliments the simplicity and dream-like allure of the story and artwork perfectly. So much, that it’s not impossible to imagine the Star Wars actor taking over from Tom Hanks in his many roles, from Hero Boy to the Conductor, in another 3D-animated motion-capture adaptation, perhaps even in live action.

Related: ‘The Polar Express’ Returns This Christmas Following Sequel Announcement

Where Can I Watch The Polar Express?

The Polar Express is available to stream and download on Amazon Prime Video.

“Get up, get on, and get ready for the ride of your life! It’s Christmas Eve, and you’re about to roller-coaster up and down mountains, slip-slide over ice fields, teeter across mile-high bridges and be served hot chocolate by singing waiters more astonishing than any you can imagine,” the official synopsis from Warner Bros. reads.

“You’re on The Polar Express! Tom Hanks stars in and Robert Zemeckis directs this instant holiday classic filmed in dazzling performance capture animation that makes every moment magical. “Seeing is believing,” says a mysterious hobo who rides the rails with you.  You’ll see wonders. And you’ll believe. All aboooooard!”

Are you a fan of The Polar Express? Would you like to see Liam Neeson star in a reboot? Let us know in the comments down below!