Postman’s Knock – 1961 | 87 mins | Comedy | B&W

Plot Synopsis

Amiable Spike Milligan comedy vehicle from writers John Briley and Jack Trevor Story, centring on a rural postman whose efficiency earns him a transfer to London. Several promising satirical opportunities are sadly lost beneath a welter of frenetic slapstick. Milligan struggles with the constraints of a conventional comedy script, but able assistance comes in the shape of a strong support cast including Barbara Shelley, a youngish Warren Mitchell, and stalwart British character actors Wilfrid Lawson, Miles Malleson and Lance Percival.

Happy-go-lucky village postman Harold Petts (Spike Milligan) is transferred to London and due to his efficiency, and upon his arrival the proud postie prevents a mail train robbery by a gang of inept crooks led by Rupert (Warren Mitchell). The police wrongly arrest Harold and art student Jean (Barbara Shelley), and despite a Post Office official corroborating his statement the police decide to tail Harold. Unable to find digs in London; Jean allows Harold to move into her loft as her lodger.

At the Post Office depot, Rupert has caused consternation by working faster than the automated sorting equipment, a fact his superiors fear will anger the unions. Meanwhile, Rupert and his gang are casing the mail depot in preparation for another robbery attempt.