In a refreshing departure from the sharp-edged humour of his earlier work, Mackenzie Crook unveils his latest project, *Small Prophets*, a six-part series on BBC Two that embraces a more tender comedic approach. As the creator and star, Crook explores themes of middle age, loss, and the surreal, featuring the character of Gordon, a DIY store manager whose flaws make him oddly endearing.
An Evolution in Character
In *Small Prophets*, Crook portrays Gordon, a character reminiscent of Gareth, his iconic role in *The Office*, albeit with a twist of maturity and disappointment. “I wrote Gordon as a monster, but by the end, I found myself rather fond of him,” Crook reflects. This evolution speaks to his desire to craft a narrative that avoids the cruelty often found in contemporary comedy.
Crook’s journey into middle age is palpable in his work; he admits, “I’m a little bit obsessed by being middle-aged.” The narrative follows Michael, played by Pearce Quigley, who harbours a tragic past marked by the mysterious disappearance of his girlfriend, Clea, seven years ago. As he navigates through mundane routines and familial obligations, the show offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of life at this stage.
The Magic of Mundanity
The premise takes a fantastical turn when Michael’s father, Brian—played by the beloved Michael Palin—reveals his ability to create homunculi, miniature beings that can provide answers to any question. “I’ve always been fascinated by stories of lonely people,” Crook explains, “and how the extraordinary can disrupt their ordinary lives.” This unique blend of magic realism and relatable human experience sets *Small Prophets* apart in the landscape of British television.
Despite the presence of the fantastical, everyday life continues unabated. The neighbours grumble about the state of Michael’s garden, encapsulating the essence of mundane life that Crook captures so well. The characters, originally written with simplicity, gain depth through the performances of talented actors like Jon Pointing, who makes the grumpy neighbour unexpectedly sympathetic.
A Gentle Comedy for a New Era
Crook’s shift towards gentler humour stems from a desire to create something devoid of the cringe-inducing moments that marked earlier comedies. He recalls his experience with *The Office*, where comedic discomfort was a staple. “After *The Office*, I wanted to write something that wasn’t cruel humour, that didn’t have a cringe factor,” Crook states. This desire has given rise to what he describes as “gentle comedy,” a term he admits is somewhat complicated but encapsulates the essence of his current work.
In *Small Prophets*, the stakes are higher, but the tone remains light. The narrative unfolds with unexpected twists, leaving viewers to ponder the unresolved mysteries as Crook navigates the delicate balance between the surreal and the ordinary. The whimsical stop-motion animation of the homunculi adds a nostalgic touch, reminiscent of childhood stories filled with wonder and possibility.
Why it Matters
*Small Prophets* marks a significant evolution for Mackenzie Crook, showcasing his growth as a writer and creator. By embracing themes of middle age and the quiet struggles of everyday life, he carves a niche that resonates with a wide audience seeking relatable, heartfelt comedy. In a world where laughter often comes at the expense of others, Crook’s gentle approach invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences, making *Small Prophets* a noteworthy addition to contemporary television. The series not only highlights the beauty in the mundane but also celebrates the human capacity for connection in the face of life’s uncertainties.
