Kevin Costner attempts to improve his rep in the post-apocalyptic genre, after lukewarm reviews for Waterworld a few years before this. As for me, the Costner thespian we know is back as the selfless, out of touch, unlikely hero who attempts to uncover the best out of corrupt humanity. Unfortunately, the box office didn't agree, and it remains underrated, mostly absent from air time.
Kevin Costner directs this antithesis to The Walking Dead. Instead of the cliche end-of-the world visuals, like zombies, scorched cities, dying earth, we get to see new images like anachronistic postal service uniforms, Wild Western towns, and American flags...whaaat. Maybe that was too different for the uncreative. Yet, it makes fashion statements for its new society. The unarmed 'Postman' takes it upon himself to wander around and give hope that a shadow U.S. government is in place by such nonthreatening means as the power of the pen. O.k., so it might be too much to expect. Yet, there is a reality check raised by the persecution of the 'Neegan-like' Gen. Bethlehem (Will Patton), leader of the ruthless new world order. A guerrilla battle ensues. The Postman's abnormal romance to Abby (Olivia Williams) reveals a stronger female role than the protagonist mail worker's.
The ending battle was also refreshing for the lack of a bloodbath. The late legendary classic rocker, Tom Petty, dismisses himself from famedom, appearing as Bridge City Mayor--a genre role he had always pursued. That adds to the idealistic chic of the movie that some thought as "goofy"--not quite, just a bit overoptimistic. Still, I liked this better than the overbudgeted Waterworld blockbuster. There were more relationships, as in TWD, and that's really what defines us. Almost 3 hours is too long, but the subplots provided good sequence. I give this a Winning 35 yd. Line.
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