Gnomes Review: Asa Butterfield Battles Murderous Garden Ornaments 2026

In the new horror-comedy series Gnomes, Asa Butterfield takes on murderous garden ornaments in a delightfully pulpy romp that lives up to its "Gremlins meets Hot Fuzz" billing. This six-part Australian series, created by Joel Kohn and written by Tegan Higginbotham and Paul F Verhoeven, delivers a chaotic blend of small-town charm and gnome-icidal mayhem.

Gnomes Review: A Bloody Good Time in Nompton

Set in the fictional town of Nompton, the series follows a community gearing up for a "Gnome-a-Palooza" festival when ancient evil awakens the garden gnomes, turning them into stabby, killy menaces. Mayor Lachlan Morrison (Darren Gilshenan) insists the town stay open despite the rising body count, echoing the classic mayor from Jaws. But as the gnomes go on a rampage, it's up to a group of locals—including Asa Butterfield's character—to survive the onslaught.

The tone is spot-on: barely controlled chaos with a wink to the audience, never too self-conscious. It's a pulpy, high-spirited production that fans of Joe Dante and Edgar Wright will devour.

Why Gnomes Stands Out in the Horror-Comedy Genre

What sets Gnomes apart is its commitment to the bit. The series doesn't just rely on the novelty of killer gnomes; it builds a world where the absurd feels strangely plausible. The writing balances genuine scares with laugh-out-loud moments, and the practical effects give the gnomes a tactile, menacing presence that CGI often lacks.

Asa Butterfield brings a grounded performance that anchors the madness, while Darren Gilshenan chews scenery as the oblivious mayor. The supporting cast delivers solid turns, making Nompton feel like a town worth saving—even if it's overrun by pint-sized terrors.

Gnomes vs. Other Horror-Comedy Series: A Comparison

While Gnomes wears its influences on its sleeve, it carves out its own identity with a uniquely Australian flavor and a fresh take on the "small town with a dark secret" trope.

Key Takeaways from Gnomes

• Asa Butterfield shines as a relatable hero in an increasingly insane situation.
• Practical effects make the gnomes both terrifying and hilarious.
• Sharp writing balances horror and comedy without tipping too far either way.
• Small-town satire adds depth beyond the gore.
• Six episodes feel perfectly paced, never overstaying their welcome.

FAQ

In a landscape saturated with reboots and sequels, Gnomes offers a refreshingly original take on the creature feature. It's a bloody good time that deserves a spot on your watchlist.