After Thomas tells the true story of two parents (Keeley Hawes and Ben Miles) attempting to deal with the challenges of their son's autism. The son is enamoured by Thomas The Tank Engine and names his dog, through whom he learns to empathise, Thomas, after the show. In this most-hard-hitting entry on the list, Hawes gives an unwavering and brilliant performance as Nicola Graham, this time outside of any of the fantasy worlds of Hotel!, Spooks or Tomb Raider. Unlike many of Doctor Who's guest stars, Hawes' background in TV has secured her as one of the best talents the UK has to offer, versed well in comedy, fantasy and drama, with After Thomas beautifully demonstrating her grasp of the latter. Should her episode include a dramatic turn, expect to well up.