Given the endless stream of kiddie favourites (such as the bewilderingly successful Smurfs) making the leap from telly to movies, it was only a matter of time before more British names started getting caught up in the swirling cinematic vortex. But while we’ve always joked about the idea that the likes of Postman Pat could become a Hollywood blockbuster, he’s actually going to get his close-up via a new 3D ‘toon movie, with Rupert Grint, David Tennant, Stephen Mangan and Jim Broadbent among the voice talent.
Pat, of course, is the reliable, stop-motion mail delivery type who brightens the spirits of the inhabitants of Greendale. Best known for his van and the ever-present black and white moggy Jess, Pat remained largely unchanged until his most recent series, which saw him take on a more high-tech role.
The film version, timed to coincide with the character’s 30th anniversary in 2013 and with Mangan taking over voice duties for the man himself, is subtitled You Know You’re the One, and will add in an extra pop-cultural spin. Pat enters a national talent competition and is tempted by the lures of fame. Will he give in to ego and money and leave Greendale forever? And will Simon Cowell have a voice cameo?
Pushing Pat on to the screen is somewhat understandable – he’s an evergreen icon for the ankle-biter crowd, and he stirs fond memories in those who grew up watching his gentle adventures. Even Grint, who seems thrilled to be taking part: “Postman Pat is one of those British symbols, I suppose – you are totally familiar with him and his cat, Jess even if you have never watched the series. How exciting to be part of the Postman Pat heritage.”
If they want to make it really topical, the sequel will see Pat facing possible unemployment as his local sorting office is shut down…