Postal (2007) Movie Review
Introduction
“Postal,” released in 2007, is a black comedy action film directed by Uwe Boll, based on the controversial video game series of the same name. Known for its satirical and over-the-top humor, the film aims to push the boundaries of good taste and political correctness. This review will explore the plot, characters, reception, and provide information on where to stream or purchase “Postal” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film follows the misadventures of the Postal Dude (Zack Ward), a down-on-his-luck man living in the small town of Paradise. Struggling to find purpose and direction, the Postal Dude gets involved in a series of absurd and chaotic events. He teams up with his uncle Dave (Dave Foley), the leader of a doomsday cult, to steal a shipment of Krotchy dolls—a popular toy.
Their plan quickly spirals out of control, leading to a confrontation with a group of terrorists led by Osama bin Laden (Larry Thomas). As the situation escalates, the Postal Dude finds himself at the center of a violent and comedic showdown involving various eccentric characters, including law enforcement, cult members, and townsfolk.
Characters and Cast
- Postal Dude (Zack Ward): The film’s protagonist, a disillusioned man seeking a better life who becomes embroiled in a series of outlandish events.
- Uncle Dave (Dave Foley): The leader of a doomsday cult and the Postal Dude’s uncle, who concocts a scheme to steal valuable merchandise.
- Faith (Jackie Tohn): A waitress who becomes an ally of the Postal Dude.
- Osama bin Laden (Larry Thomas): The infamous terrorist leader who plays a satirical role in the film’s plot.
- Officer John (Chris Coppola): A bumbling police officer caught up in the chaos.
- Richard (J.K. Simmons): The mayor of Paradise, who adds to the film’s political satire.
Reception and Critique
“Postal” received overwhelmingly negative reviews from critics and audiences, with many criticizing its crass humor and lack of coherence. Despite this, it has garnered a cult following among fans of outrageous and controversial comedy.
Positive Aspects
- Bold Satire: The film’s willingness to tackle taboo subjects and its unabashed satire of political and social issues can be seen as a bold move.
- Performance by Zack Ward: Zack Ward’s portrayal of the Postal Dude is committed and brings some level of charisma to the chaotic storyline.
Negative Aspects
- Offensive Humor: The film’s reliance on shock value and offensive jokes alienates many viewers, making it difficult to appreciate the underlying satire.
- Disjointed Plot: The storyline often feels disorganized and haphazard, with scenes that lack a clear narrative flow.
- Production Quality: The film suffers from low production values, with effects and cinematography that often feel subpar.
Where to Watch “Postal” in the USA
For those interested in watching “Postal,” there are several streaming services and platforms where the film is available:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch it as part of their subscription or rent/purchase it separately.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: In addition to streaming, you can rent or purchase the film on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $2.99 to $3.99, while purchase prices vary from $9.99 to $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play. Rental prices usually start at $2.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
- iTunes: “Postal” is available for rent or purchase on iTunes. Rental prices are around $3.99, and purchase prices are approximately $9.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film is Vudu. Rental costs are typically $2.99 to $3.99, and purchase prices range from $9.99 to $12.99.
Conclusion
“Postal” is a film that revels in its controversy and dark humor, pushing the boundaries of good taste and political correctness. While it has found a niche audience who appreciate its bold satire and irreverent approach, it remains a polarizing movie with significant flaws in plot coherence and production quality. For viewers in the United States, the film is accessible on various streaming services and rental platforms. Whether you choose to stream, rent, or purchase, “Postal” offers a chaotic and provocative viewing experience, particularly appealing to fans of extreme and controversial comedy.
