Sir Michael Palin stars in 'Small Prophets', a captivating TV series that blends the mundane with the magical. The show follows Michael Sleep, a man who has been searching for his missing partner, Clea, for seven years. With the help of his elderly father, Sleep stumbles upon an ancient recipe involving rainwater, horse manure, and alchemy to create homunculi, mystical creatures that can predict the future. These homunculi, as explained by Sir Michael, are inspired by a historical account of a magical alchemist who crafted little people in jars. The series explores how what initially seems strange can become magical and beneficial, aiding Sleep in his quest to find his lost love. Critics have praised 'Small Prophets' for its enchanting storytelling and unique blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary. The Guardian's Jack Seale described it as a 'pure, pure pleasure', highlighting its ability to remind us of the wonders that still exist in a world that might seem devoid of them. Similarly, Ben Dowell from The Times awarded it five stars, comparing it favorably to 'Detectorists'. The Telegraph's Anita Singh, while noting that the show might not appeal to all tastes, praised its labor of love and the wonderful performances, especially that of Pearce Quigley. Patrick Smith from The Independent also gave it four stars, recommending it for its funny, strange, and accessible nature. 'Small Prophets' is available on iPlayer, offering viewers a delightful and thought-provoking experience.
