Space Goblins, directed by Ams Overton, is a 30-minute animated sci-fi comedy produced entirely by two people. The film follows two goblin bounty hunter brothers on a chaotic mission that spirals into an intergalactic conspiracy with unfathomable odds.
In a collapsing galaxy filled with warlords, mutants, and criminals, two goblin brothers, Gib and Gob, work as bounty hunters chasing down fugitives. Their latest mission begins aboard an interplanetary detention shuttle, where they’re tasked with apprehending Gorax, a criminal notorious for tax evasion. The pair are frustrated that their work goes unappreciated, believing the galaxy would fall into chaos without them. Their search for Gorax takes them into a seedy strip club, where they bribe a bartender for information and stumble across Gorax’s associate, Mr. Sellers, who unknowingly gives away the target’s whereabouts.
As they close in, the mission quickly spirals out of control, revealing that Gorax may not be the criminal they thought he was. The chase draws the goblins deeper into a conspiracy involving outlaw factions and collapsing star systems, turning what should have been a simple capture into a violent and chaotic showdown. Along the way, they encounter bizarre aliens, galactic lowlifes, and the absurdity of a universe on the brink of collapse.
What begins as a quest for recognition becomes a test of the brothers’ loyalty to their job and to each other. In the end, their pursuit forces them to confront larger questions about justice, survival, and their place in a universe where nothing is as it seems.
“…the chase draws the goblins deeper into a conspiracy involving outlaw factions and collapsing star systems…”
Directors Ams Overton and HTB envisioned Space Goblins as a scrappy, offbeat labor of love that leaned into its DIY imperfections. Built entirely by just the two of them, the short combines bounty-hunting chaos, galactic satire, and lo-fi animation as a tribute to cult sci-fi, underground cartoons, and VHS-era weirdness. Their goal was not only to deliver a wild, irreverent space adventure but also to capture the spirit of handmade animation, embracing rough edges as part of its charm. What began as their first animated project has since grown a small cult following and now serves as the foundation for a planned live-action feature adaptation.
Space Goblins reminds me of all those weird short films I watched at Spike & Mike’s Sick and Twisted Festival of Animation. Just an animated short about two guys trying to survive and find meaning in the weird and absurd world around them. They are crass, yet sympathetic—all translating to a good time.
I love the character design. A great amount of effort was put into each creature and alien. It’s clear a lot of hard work was put into the final product with virtually no shortcuts. It all pays off.
My only issue with the film is the sound. There’s too much dialogue, and it’s spoken too quickly. I’d trim the dialogue and slow it down so the audience can take in what the characters are saying. Pacing will elevate the short film even more. Other than that, Space Goblins has legs to support a few more episodes.
Space Goblins stands as a wild, DIY animated short that proves how much can be achieved with passion, creativity, and just two demented creators. Its mix of chaos, satire, and heart ensures that this strange little film will transport you to a world you may or may not want to live in. Most likely, may.
For screening information, visit the Space Goblins official website.
"…just two demented creators..."
