Terry Pratchett's Going Postal

Terry Pratchett's Going Postal (2010) is a unique and entertaining two-part television adaptation produced by The Mob Film Company. Originally penned by Terry Pratchett, acclaimed English author of the iconic Discworld series, the adaptation retains much of the charm, wit, and rich detail from the book, bringing it to life in an engaging on-screen drama. The series stars Richard Coyle, David Suchet, and Claire Foy in key roles, and unravels the story of a cunning con artist, a malevolent businessman, and a strong-willed woman caught in a whirlwind adventure in Ankh-Morpork, the largest city-state in Discworld.

Richard Coyle captures the essence of Moist Von Lipwig, a smooth-talking con artist with a knack for trouble, who finds himself thrust into an unusual punishment after his numerous crimes catch up with him. Instead of facing execution, Moist is given a seemingly impossible task by Lord Vetinari, the Patrician of Ankh-Morpork: he must restore the city's decaying and nearly obsolete Post Office.

David Suchet plays the role of Reacher Gilt, a ruthless and malevolent businessman who has monopolized communication in Ankh-Morpork with his Clacks communication system. Suchet presents a villainous character who is smart, ambitious, and uncaring, creating tension and drama that keeps the audience on their toes throughout the series.

The talented Claire Foy, well before her acclaimed role in "The Crown," plays Adora Belle Dearheart, an intelligent and strong businesswoman. Adora carries a personal vendetta against Gilt, blaming him for the unjustified death of her brother. As she and Moist navigate their way through this challenging mission, their relationship adds a touch of romance and even more intrigue to the overarching narrative.

The city of Ankh-Morpork, a mirror of our own societies, is one of the highlights of Going Postal. Embracing fantasies and whimsical elements, the city pulses with life: moving pictures, golems, magical elements, and a colourful cast of characters, each with their uniquely fascinating stories, make Ankh-Morpork a vibrant and immersive backdrop that captures the viewers' imagination.

Throughout the two-part series, the audience gets a nuanced taste of Terry Pratchett's unique mix of fantasy, satire, and comedy, punctuated by his sharp commentary on societal norms, bureaucracy, and the concept of new always replacing old. Under the clever direction of Jon Jones, the series progresses with a seamless blend of comedy and drama, resonating with viewers from all walks of life. The intelligent writing, paired with compelling performances, ensures that Discworld fans and those new to Pratchett's work alike find something to enjoy in the series.

Despite being set in a magical and whimsical world, Going Postal touches upon relatable themes that are anchored in real-world scenarios. Among these are corporate greed and corruption, the power of second chances, the strength of belief, and the essence of communication. These themes are handled with a level of sophistication and stark reality that counterbalances the fantastical setting, ensuring that viewers become emotionally invested in the struggles and triumphs of the characters.

Going Postal boasts a striking visual aesthetic, rendering Discworld with beautiful imagery and captivating cinematography. From sprawling cityscapes to intimate character-focused scenes, the set design, costuming, and special effects make the series an immersive experience.

Through this mini-series, the Mob Film Company successfully opens a window into Pratchett’s Discworld, inviting viewers to journey alongside Moist, Adora, and Gilt as they navigate through their fascinating world. With its top-notch cast, insightful writing, and visual spectacle, Terry Pratchett's Going Postal is a series that keeps audiences captivated from beginning to end. If you're a lover of fantasy, intrigued by character-driven plots, or simply a fan of Terry Pratchett's novels, don't miss a chance to experience this mesmerizing adaptation.