BBC series 'Small Prophets' arrives on Apple TV in Bernalillo

The six-episode series Small Prophets is now streaming on Apple TV. The BBC production features a mix of fantasy, social comedy, and deadpan humor. The show centers on Michael Sleep, a man in his 50s played by Pearce Quigley. Sleep lives in a suburban house with an overgrown lawn. He has kept the home exactly as it was since his partner Clea disappeared seven years ago. Sleep works part-time at a store called the Tool Box. He also visits the retirement home where his father Brian stays. Michael Palin plays Brian, who is inventive but scattered.

Brian tells his son about a friend in Egypt who could summon homunculi. These are miniature humanoid beings that always tell the truth. Brian gives Michael a recipe to bring the small prophets to life. The creatures grow inside glass jars. Michael decides to try the method to learn what happened to Clea. The process involves using old coins and a truckload of manure.

New characters enter Michael's life while he works on the recipe. Roy, Clea's brother, plays by Paul Kaye, shows up broke and wants to claim the house. Michael's neighbors also become involved in his daily routine. Clive, the husband, is constantly annoyed by Michael's messy yard. His wife Bev finds Michael different and interesting. At work, Michael befriends a coworker named Kacey, played by Lauren Patel. She shares his dislike for their boss Gordon. Mackenzie Crook, the writer and director of the series, plays Gordon. Crook also directed the comedy series Detectorists.

The show focuses on loners, oddballs, and dreamers who are stuck in unsatisfying jobs. The characters are drawn with care, even when they appear foolish. They reveal moments of unexpected vulnerability. The series avoids a somber tone by including strong jokes. Michael often teases customers at his store in a funny way. The show adds poetic touches to daily life. Examples include a falling star, an oil spill shaped like a rabbit, and a Christmas memory. The homunculi are described as fragile creatures. Their faces show pain and isolation. Being trapped in bottles, they mirror the solitude of the human characters.

Pearce Quigley delivers a quiet and confident performance as Michael. The character is caring, loyal, and accepting of differences. He does not make a big deal of his feelings. Michael leaves himself open to the wonder of life. The series presents a positive approach to people. It suggests that individuals are often better than they first appear. The show is a gentle marvel that surprises viewers consistently.