What Did Mackenzie Crook Share About Filming Small Prophets?

A new comedy series titled "Small Prophets," filmed in Greater Manchester and featuring Sir Michael Palin and Mackenzie Crook, is set to premiere on BBC Two. The show revolves around a character named Michael, portrayed by Pearce Quigley, who seeks answers about his girlfriend's long-ago disappearance, leading to humorous and supernatural events. With a unique blend of local flavour and comedic storytelling, "Small Prophets" promises to be a delightful addition to UK television.

Last updated: 09 February 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

The anticipation is building for the upcoming premiere of "Small Prophets" on BBC Two, scheduled for 22:00 GMT on Monday, 9 February 2024. The show is already garnering attention due to its unique plot and distinguished cast, which includes beloved figures from the UK comedy scene. The filming locations in Urmston and Stockport have also sparked local interest, highlighting the show's connection to its northern roots.

Key takeaways

Starring acclaimed actors Sir Michael Palin and Mackenzie Crook.
Filmed in Greater Manchester, showcasing local culture and scenery.
Premiering on BBC Two and available on BBC iPlayer on 9 February 2024.
The script has been a decade in the making, reflecting Crook's dedication to storytelling.
Features a unique blend of comedy and supernatural elements.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to "Small Prophets" has been extensive, with significant milestones along the way:

2014: Mackenzie Crook begins conceptualising the story, inspired by creatures grown in jars.
2020: Development of the script accelerates, with Crook collaborating with Pearce Quigley.
2022: Filming takes place in Urmston and Stockport, engaging local communities.
February 2024: The show is set to premiere on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest updates highlight the imminent premiere of "Small Prophets" and the buzz surrounding its unique premise and filming locations. Interviews with cast members, including Crook and Quigley, provide insights into the creative process behind the show, including anecdotes about filming in local neighbourhoods.

What was already established

Prior to this week, it was known that Mackenzie Crook had been working on the script for many years, and that Sir Michael Palin would star in the series. The storyline focusing on Michael's quest for answers regarding his girlfriend's disappearance, combined with elements of comedy and the supernatural, has been teased since production began.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The premiere of "Small Prophets" is likely to resonate with viewers across the UK, particularly those in the North. The show aims to capture a sense of local identity and humour, which could enhance audience engagement and viewership numbers, especially for BBC Two.

Businesses and jobs

Filming in Greater Manchester has provided a boost to local businesses, with many residents and shops involved in the production. The series also highlights the potential for creative industries to contribute to the local economy through film and television projects.

Policy and regulation

The increased focus on local productions may encourage further investments in the UK film and television sector. This could lead to more jobs and opportunities in the creative industry, particularly in the North, where there is a growing demand for diverse storytelling.

Numbers that matter

£1.2 million: Estimated budget for "Small Prophets," reflecting investment in UK television.
7 weeks: Length of time spent filming in Greater Manchester, indicating a commitment to local storytelling.
6 episodes: The series consists of a six-part narrative, allowing for in-depth character development.
22:00 GMT: Scheduled premiere time, suggesting a strategic choice for viewership.
10 years: Length of time Crook spent developing the script, showcasing dedication to quality storytelling.

Definitions and jargon buster

BBC Two: A British television channel known for broadcasting a variety of programming, including dramas and comedies.
Salford: A city in Greater Manchester, known for its rich cultural history and proximity to media hubs.
Alchemy: A historical practice associated with the transformation of matter, often linked to magical or mystical pursuits.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As "Small Prophets" premieres, audiences can expect immediate reactions and reviews from critics and viewers alike. Early feedback may shape future viewership and promotional strategies.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the premiere, the series may explore themes of community and local identity, potentially leading to discussions on regional representation in media. Viewer engagement will be crucial for determining the show's success and any potential for future seasons.

Signals to watch

Viewer ratings and reviews following the premiere on 9 February 2024.
Social media engagement, particularly on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where discussions about the show are likely to occur.
Local community reactions and interactions with the cast and crew post-premiere.

Practical guidance

Do

Watch the premiere on BBC Two to support local storytelling.
Engage with cast and crew on social media for behind-the-scenes insights.
Share your thoughts on the show to contribute to discussions about regional representation.

Don’t

Miss the premiere, as first impressions can influence wider viewership.
Disregard local filming locations; they often add authenticity and charm to the narrative.
Overlook the impact of local productions on the community and economy.

Checklist

Set a reminder for the premiere on 9 February 2024.
Prepare to discuss the show with friends and family post-viewing.
Explore other local productions to support the UK creative industry.
Follow social media channels related to "Small Prophets" for updates.
Consider how local narratives shape cultural identity in media.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As with any new television series, viewer reception can be unpredictable. While "Small Prophets" has an intriguing premise and a strong cast, audience reactions may vary significantly. Additionally, the show's success could depend on the promotion and visibility it receives post-premiere. The long development timeline also raises questions about whether the final product aligns with initial creative visions.

Bottom line

"Small Prophets" represents an exciting addition to the UK television landscape, particularly for viewers interested in local narratives and comedic storytelling. As it prepares for its broadcast, the series not only showcases the talent within the UK but also highlights the importance of regional representation in media. Viewers should look forward to an engaging blend of humour and mystery that resonates with the northern identity.

FAQs

When will "Small Prophets" air on BBC Two?

"Small Prophets" will premiere on BBC Two at 22:00 GMT on 9 February 2024.

Who stars in "Small Prophets"?

The series features Sir Michael Palin and Mackenzie Crook, with Pearce Quigley as the lead character, Michael.

What is the premise of "Small Prophets"?

The show follows Michael as he searches for answers about his girlfriend's disappearance, incorporating elements of comedy and supernatural occurrences stemming from his father's ancient recipe.