Mackenzie Crook, the acclaimed creator of Detectorists, returns with a new television gem that is set to enchant audiences. Small Prophets, a BBC Two comedy series, offers a magical and uplifting viewing experience that is pure, unadulterated pleasure. This review delves into the show's unique charm, stellar casting, and the wondrous surprises that lie beneath its surface.
A Tale of Urban Wonder and Heartfelt Friendship
At the heart of Small Prophets is Michael, portrayed by Pearce Quigley, a lank-haired and long-bearded man living a monotonous life in a semi-detached house in south Manchester. His daily routine is a cycle of mundane tasks, haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his girlfriend Clea seven years ago on Christmas Eve. While this setup might suggest a bleak narrative, Crook masterfully infuses it with wonder and whimsy, transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.
Stellar Cast Brings Characters to Life
The casting of Small Prophets is nothing short of perfection. Pearce Quigley, previously a supporting actor in Detectorists, shines in the lead role as Michael, capturing his quirky charm and hidden depths. Lauren Patel delivers a sensational performance as Kacey, Michael's much younger colleague, with their platonic friendship emerging as one of the most beautiful and poignant relationships on television. Michael Palin adds his iconic touch as Brian, Michael's eccentric father, whose whimsical inventions and forgetful nature provide both humour and heart.
Further enriching the ensemble are Jon Pointing as Clive, the bewildered neighbour, and Mackenzie Crook himself as Gordon, Michael's ineffectual boss. Each character is crafted with singular delight, contributing to the show's rich tapestry of urban life.
Uncovering Magic in the Everyday
Small Prophets excels in finding fantastical elements within the mundane. Michael's talent for playful wind-ups at his DIY store job reveals a mischievous mind, while the show explores themes of memory, loss, and hope with a light touch. The narrative unfolds with sunbursts of imagination, resolving plot threads in ways that are both absurd and deeply moving, such as a mugging scene that defies expectations.
If there is a central message, it is that wonderful things still exist in a world that may seem depleted. The series itself serves as proof, showcasing British television's ability to create impossible marvels that reignite belief in magic. Small Prophets aired on BBC Two and is available for streaming on iPlayer, offering viewers a chance to immerse themselves in its enchanting world.
