Postal

Directed by Uwe Boll, Postal is a provocative, dark-comedy film that shakes every sphere of political and social norms in our society.

The film was released in 2007 and stars Zack Ward, David Foley, and Verne Troyer. It captivates audiences with its cynical and audacious sense of humour, which is paired with a dramatic yet hilarious storyline designed to provoke laughter, thought, and potentially, shock.

The plot revolves around the character of Dude, played by Zack Ward. Dude is a luckless wannabe who struggles with life’s setbacks, such as his unemployment and burdensome wife. His life spirals from bad to worse when his annoying Uncle Dave (David Foley), a cult leader deeply in debt, drags him into an offbeat, disastrous plan. Together, they attempt to retrieve a shipment of Krotchy Dolls, a rare collection of toys that have taken on an unforeseen demand. They realise that the dolls are worth a fortune, and these could be their ticket to a better life.

On the other hand, the narrative also follows a group of terrorists led by Osama Bin Laden, who also targets the same dolls for a far more sinister purpose, which results in a brutal race between the two parties for the coveted toys.

One of the unique aspects of Postal is its brave and unreserved commentaries on touchy social subjects, such as religion, politics, and popular culture. It unexpectedly juxtaposes comedic moments with intense, critical issues, creating an unusual blend of facets that can be both entertaining and unsettling.

Zack Ward gives a commendable performance as Dude, conveying the perfect mixture of naivety and desperation in his character that forces him to engage in the madcap venture. David Foley, as Uncle Dave, also shines brilliantly with his eccentric characterisation and comic timing. Verne Troyer, as himself, contributes to the movie with a demonstrably entertaining performance.

The excellent casting, sharp dialogue, and outrageous situations further contribute to the movie's overall charm. Whether this charm grows on you or not depends heavily on your tolerance for its audacious style of humour and satire. While it might seem that the film openly mocks many sanctities, its intent isn't to offend, but rather provoke a dialogue or thought.

Postal also pokes fun at video games and their impact on society, given that it's based on a controversial game of a similar name. The director, Uwe Boll, who's infamous for his film adaptations of video games, adds his trademarked over-the-top action sequences and gory details to Postal. Several scenes with high-energy action, coupled with Boll's unique style of storytelling, add another layer of entertainment to the film. The cinematography and direction of the movie enhance the chaotic and satirical vibe the movie intends to project.

It's worth mentioning that the soundtrack plays a significant role in the film, consistently setting the right tone. Composed by Jessica de Rooij, the music ranges from atmospheric to jarring, coinciding with the on-screen madness.

Despite the film's mixed reviews, which are primarily due to its unapologetically controversial themes, Postal has garnered a cult following over the years. It's a film that compels the audience to re-evaluate their thresholds for humour and social critique, and might not sit well with everyone. However, it's this very audacity of Postal that makes it stand out.

To wrap it up, Postal is a daringly cheeky film that combines edgy social satire with absurd comedy. It's definitely a movie for those who want to experience a different breed of humor and can appreciate its absurdity and wit.

Please note that the film is rated R, so it is intended for mature audiences and may not be suitable for those of a sensitive disposition or below the legal viewing age. The running time is approximately 102 minutes. You can find Postal in DVD or Digital formats and on various streaming platforms. Whether it's for the good laughs or the bold statements, Postal challenges the norms and provides viewers with a distinct viewing experience.