A new comedy horror series titled *Gnomes* has premiered on Disney+, offering a lighter alternative to the heavier television fare currently dominating the autumn schedule. This Australian import, set in the fictional town of Nompton, follows police sergeant Arnold Kipps, portrayed by Asa Butterfield, known for his role in *Sex Education*. Kipps is tasked with maintaining order in a town so crime-free that the local police station faces closure.
The show opens with a flashback to Nazi Germany, where a sinister Gnome Queen awakens. The narrative quickly shifts to modern-day Nompton, where the queen reemerges at a local fair. Seeking to restore her dark powers, the queen requires contact with human blood. This revival is inadvertently triggered when Sgt. Kipps, after a night out and a confrontation with his ex-partner Ellie McKay—played by Megan Smart—cuts his hand and comes into contact with the Gnome Queen. Subsequently, she imbues a group of garden gnomes with murderous intent, setting off a chain of violent events.
The gnomes’ first victim is a caretaker who follows a trail of money leading to a deadly leprechaun figure. The encounter culminates in a gruesome yet darkly comedic scene, blending horror elements with humor. Rather than aiming to terrify, *Gnomes* leans into its comedic aspects, evoking the spirit of 1980s cult classics such as *Gremlins* and *Child’s Play*.
The series arrives during a resurgence of the horror-comedy genre on television, following the success of shows like *Widow’s Bay*. While *Widow’s Bay* has enjoyed considerable acclaim, *Gnomes* offers viewers a quirky and entertaining alternative that stands out with its unique premise and tone. Through its blend of humor, horror, and nostalgia, *Gnomes* aims to provide a refreshing counterbalance to more intense dramas currently on air.