Mackenzie Crook Unveils 'Small Prophets', A New Magical Comedy Series for the BBC

The BBC has announced a new six-part comedy series, 'Small Prophets', created, written, and directed by the acclaimed BAFTA-winning Mackenzie Crook. The show promises a unique blend of the magical and the mundane, set against the backdrop of suburban Manchester.

Key Takeaways

• Mackenzie Crook, known for 'Detectorists' and 'Worzel Gummidge', is behind the new comedy.

• The series stars Pearce Quigley as Michael Sleep, a man seeking answers about his missing partner.

• 'Small Prophets' incorporates visually stunning animation.

• The cast includes Sir Michael Palin, Lauren Patel, Sophie Willan, and Jon Pointing.

The Premise of 'Small Prophets'

'Small Prophets' centres on Michael Sleep, portrayed by Pearce Quigley, a man whose life has been ordinary since his partner Clea vanished seven years prior. His routine involves Shreddies, a DIY store job, visits to his father Brian (played by Sir Michael Palin), and a lingering hope for Clea's return. This quiet existence is disrupted when his father shares an unconventional recipe involving rainwater, horse manure, and alchemy. Driven by a desperate hope to find out if he will ever see Clea again, Michael embarks on a sceptical quest to create Homunculi – magical, prophesying spirits.

Unlikely Friendships and Nosy Neighbours

Michael finds an unexpected ally in Kacey (Lauren Patel), a younger colleague from the DIY store. Their burgeoning friendship is partly fuelled by a shared dislike for their store manager, Gordon, who is played by Mackenzie Crook himself. Meanwhile, their peculiar activities in the garden shed attract the intense curiosity of their nosy neighbours, played by Sophie Willan and Jon Pointing, who are determined to uncover the mystery unfolding next door.

A Unique Blend of Magic and Reality

Filmed and set in and around Manchester, 'Small Prophets' is set to feature visually striking animation sequences. The series explores themes of friendship, hope, the interplay between the magical and the everyday, and the secrets that can lie hidden within a seemingly ordinary suburban cul-de-sac.

Mackenzie Crook expressed his excitement, stating that the idea has been developing for nearly a decade. He also highlighted his pleasure in working again with Gill Isles and Pearce Quigley, and in collaborating with animators Ainslie Henderson and Will Anderson. Producer Gill Isles described the show as "funny, beautiful and unique."

Jon Petrie, BBC Director of Comedy, praised the series, calling it a "treat" for viewers and emphasizing its wit, wonder, and the strong creative team behind it, including its "stunning animation."

Sources

• BBC commissions new Mackenzie Crook comedy Small Prophets (w/t), BBC.