Movie review: The Postman

Post-apocalyptic America is a dangerous place to live with nobody trusting anyone else and rogue armies with the most dangerous, the Holnists, led by the demented General Bethlehem bent on race purification of survivors. When the Holnists capture a drifter he escapes at first chance and when he stumbles upon a mail Jeep, he assumes the identity of the dead mailman and convinces people the government, including postal service, has been restored as a means of acquiring food and support for himself.

Kevin Costner (Postman), Will Patton (Bethlehem), Larenz Tate (Ford Lincoln Mercury), Olivia Williams (Abby), Tom Petty (Bridge City Mayor), James Russo (Idaho), Giovanni Ribisi (Bandit 20).

Costner directed this one and although there are plenty of negative reviews, I love this movie. The plot is unusual and original and moves along at a good pace. The film feels like post-apocalypse meets steampunk meets survivalist film and surprisingly, it all works. I am a big fan of apocalypse films and sci-fi and this is a great mix of both with a detailed plot and technical work that holds audience attention.  There is so much more to this movie than can be put into a short review.

The cast is wonderful with good performances from the primary members as well as a supporting cast that does an excellent job. Patton is incredible in his role, as were Costner and Tate. I also loved the cameo by Tom Petty and the dialogue he has with Costner about being famous.

Camera work was very well done throughout the film and added to the storyline and emotion. Sets were incredible and high quality throughout. Dialogue and sound were also well done although the soundtrack could have used some good tunes.

Put this one toward the top of your Must See list if you haven’t seen it yet.

There is a fair amount of violence, some foul language, and some sexual scenes so this one should be viewed by older teens and above only.

Released: 1997
Reviewed: 1.30.17
Star rating: 5 out of 5
Genre: Action & Adventure, Sci-Fi Action, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Sci-Fi Adventure, Sci-Fi Drama

copyright ©2017 Dave Riedel