Space Goblins

Punky sci-fi short Space Goblins is an irreverent throwback to cult animated comedies of the 90s such as Ren & Stimpy. Its underground humour will please an alternative crowd who enjoy genre-mixing and narrative deconstruction.

 

The story follows Gib (AMS Overton) and Gob (HTB), a pair of goblin bounty hunters in space on the hunt for tax avoiders and other prey. Gib regularly experiences existential crisis, pondering the meaning of his role in life and the universe, whereas Gob in instinctive – comfortable his role and with his goal. The pair’s galactic adventures give Gib much to ponder, as they encounter con-men, criminals and a domineering Captain Rhodes (HTB).

 

Space Goblins is what you get when you take Jules and Vincent from Pulp Fiction, turn them green, and put them in a world that is a mix of Rick & Morty, Ren & Stimpy and The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. This animated short from creators (and voice actors) AMS Overton and HTB is packed with witty dialogue and dissecting humour that shows a great appreciation for both the sci-fi and buddy cop genre, as the titular alien monster Goblins embark on low-level bounty hunting, but manage to find universal truths in their line of work (at least in Gib’s case). The simple premise of subverting the audience’s expectations with theoretical musings works well and is an engaging base for the film to succeed – at least as a fun short.

 

This is helped out further by the amateurish animation style – which brilliantly captures the homemade, upstart feel of 90s late-night alternative comedies that Space Goblins pays homage. Creator AMS Overton is credited with the animation and character designs, and their ramshackle style makes for an unnerving but inventive atmosphere for the short. These stylings build the sense that the work is that of an original, maverick creator – something impossible to recreate authentically but true in the case of Space Goblins’low-budget production.

 

The voice acting from the co-creators is impressive, and each of the weird and wonderful monstrous cast stand out as unique creations with individual personalities. Whether it is the contrasting personalities of Gib and Gob themselves, or the rogue’s gallery they encounter such as a shady four-eyed bartender or surprisingly human hustler Sellers, AMS Overton and HTB enliven the characters with their committed vocal performances that are wonderfully alien. Captain Rhodes is a bit of a misfire, feeling a little derivative and passé especially given the originality that is evident through the rest of the film.

 

Space Goblins is definitely an acquired taste, and those without the context of its inspirations may be put off by the distinctive animation style or alternative comedic stylings. But this ground-up creation succeeds in its ambition and has enough laugh-out-loud moments thanks to excellent vocal work and a considered script.

Watch our Video Film Review of Space Goblins on TikTok.