Postman's Knock (1962)

In the quaint hamlet of Upper Tringly, diligent Harold Petts takes his role as a postman to heart, providing service that goes beyond the call of duty and envelopes the village with warmth. His exceptional performance leads to an unexpected promotion, transferring him to the bustling heart of London's central post office. Yet, as he steps off the train and into the pulsating rhythm of the city, Harold's provincial charm doesn't quite sync with the metropolis's tempo. His extraordinary efforts are misunderstood by his superiors, and his country manners make him a fish gasping on the concrete shores of urban life. In a twist of fate, his arrival in London coincides with an attempted mail train robbery by Rupert and his gang, a band of hardened criminals for whom theft is as routine as a morning cup of tea. However, the unwitting Harold inadvertently thwarts their plans, leading both the police and the crooks to mistake him for a member of the rival Maldon gang, which is planning a far more lucrative postal theft involving bundles of new bank notes. Struggling art student Jean, who befriends Harold and tries to help him navigate the complexities of city life, is innocently swept into the chaos. The police, suspecting a criminal alliance between the two, assign the hapless PC Woods to keep a watchful eye on them. Woods firmly believes that Harold and Jean are not only in cahoots but are integral parts of the Maldon gang's grand scheme. Amidst this tangled web of suspicion and confusion, Harold's unwavering dedication to his job shines through. His human touch outperforms the impersonal mechanization of the London post office, earning him notoriety and the grudging respect of his city colleagues. When the Maldon gang makes their move to steal a mail-bag full of used bank notes destined for destruction, it is Harold, the underestimated country postman, who emerges as an unlikely hero. In a fitting tribute to his exceptional service, Harold is rewarded with a promotion, not in the sprawling city, but back to his beloved village of Upper Tringly, where he reassumes his role, this time as the revered Postmaster. Through a journey filled with unexpected turns, Harold Petts proves that sometimes, it's the simplest virtues of honesty, dedication, and a bit of country charm that can save the day.

Postman's Knock is a comedy movie featuring Spike Milligan and directed by Robert Lynn.

Postman's Knock is currently streaming on TCM.