Mackenzie Crook’s new series explores supernatural themes
Mackenzie Crook, known for his roles in The Office and Detectorists, has created a new series called Small Prophets. The show follows Michael, a melancholic outcast played by Pearce Quigley, who discovers a way to create supernatural beings, blending the extraordinary with everyday life.Inspiration from 16th-century alchemy
The series was inspired by Paracelsus, a 16th-century Swiss physician and philosopher. Crook discovered a detailed recipe for creating homunculi—small, divinatory beings—in a book about Paracelsus. This concept later influenced figures like Goethe and Mary Shelley.Blending the mundane with the supernatural
Crook’s background in England’s lower middle class influenced the show’s setting. He grew up in residential suburbs, often riding his bike in circles, much like Michael’s neighbor. This contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary is a central theme of Small Prophets.Stop motion animation for emotional impact
Crook chose stop motion animation for the homunculi, noting that digital effects often go unnoticed. He preferred stop motion for its nostalgic feel and the magic it brings, despite its slightly choppy style.Michael Palin’s role as a tribute to Monty Python
Michael Palin, known for his work with Monty Python, plays Michael’s father. Crook admired Monty Python and saw the role as a tribute to the group. He emphasized the importance of humor and absurdity, drawing parallels to sketches from Monty Python and the Holy Grail.A message of empathy and kindness
Crook described Small Prophets as an anti-cynical series, aiming to highlight joy, kindness, and the need to overcome prejudices. He noted that Michael’s character, like Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird, becomes more empathetic once his story is understood.
