Generally hated by critics worldwide, this futuristic allegory set in a barren post-apocalyptic North America where society and government have crumbled, is actually an enjoyable and entertaining, albeit rather long parcel.

Kevin Costner, who also directs, is a lone drifter making ends meet by performing Shakespeare for the feudal-style communities he visits, in return for food.

But his wandering ways are terminated when he is captured by the Holnists, the ruling fascist military group led by the Hitleresque Gen Bethlehem (Will Patton), and forced to enlist as a soldier.

However, the drifter makes his escape and, taking shelter in a derelict truck during an acid-rain storm, he discovers a skeletal postal-worker sans uniform inside along with sacks of undelivered mail.

He decides to don the uniform, calls himself The Postman' and sets out to deliver the letters, spreading hope to each town he visits that the United States has reformed and that the Holnists days of tyranny are numbered.

A slow-burner, which, if not worthy of special delivery, is at least better than second class post.