There's a lo-fi punk rock vibe flowing through the heart of the 27-minute DIY animation project Space Goblins, a sci-fi short put together by the dynamic duo of two chaps - Amer Shihab, going by AMS Overton, and Harry Bryan, or HBT. 

If you remember the early days of the retro-vibed, irreverent, and satirical Cartoon Network, you'll likely get a vibe for what to expect from Space Goblins, a short low on budget but high on ambition and attitude. It's the first animated project from the duo, an intentionally "rough around the edges" with hints of Ren & Stimpy, Bakshi, and other cultish faves. 

Space Goblins for sure won't be for everyone. Currently available for viewing on Fawesome, Space Goblins has been hanging around the universal for a bit before making its current digital release. The animation is hand-drawn, centered around two brothers - Gib and Gob - who battle their way through an increasingly fractured galaxy. Of course, there's a climactic battle that's fun to watch and lots of witty, satirical dialogue along the way. with its retro animation and alt-dialogue, this is a short that will really click for those who get its references and get into its rhythm. 

There's a cool original theme by Hans Michael Anselmo Hess with additional music by Console Clone. 

At 27 minutes, Space Goblins does its deed with precision and then gets out of the way. While a feature project is rumored to be in the works, the story told here feels just about right with effective pacing and an energy that sustains itself throughout. 

Is this the best animated flick you'll see this year? Nah, but it's a solid effort from a talented duo and it's definitely worth checking out on Fawesome. 

Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic