

The postman
A postman comes to Cairo on vacation to visit his son. He tries to marry a belly dancer, but meets a group of counterfeiters. He pursues them until the police arrest them. He discovers that his son loves the same belly dancer and works with her in the same cabaret.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a post-apocalyptic future, a drifter discovers a derelict postal truck and dons the uniform of a postman. He uses the guise to bring hope and communication to scattered, isolated communities struggling to survive. As his legend grows, he becomes a symbol of the old world and a target for the tyrannical warlord who controls much of the remaining territory.
Critical Reception
The Postman was a critical and commercial failure upon its release. Critics widely panned its excessive length, convoluted plot, and Costner's self-indulgent performance. Audiences also largely rejected the film, contributing to its status as one of the biggest box office bombs of the 1990s.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised by some for its ambitious themes of hope and civilization.
- Widely criticized for its bloated runtime and uneven pacing.
- Costner's performance and direction were often seen as self-indulgent.
Google audience: Audience reviews often mention the film's lengthy runtime as a significant drawback, with many finding it difficult to stay engaged. Some viewers appreciated the message of hope and the post-apocalyptic setting, but these positive aspects were frequently overshadowed by criticisms of the plot and pacing.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Worst Picture at the Golden Raspberry Awards (Razzies).
Fun Fact
The film was a massive box office bomb, reportedly losing an estimated $70 million, and is often cited as one of the biggest commercial failures in Hollywood history.
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