"Gnomes": A Genre-Blending Comedy-Drama Set to Captivate Global Audiences
In an exciting collaboration that promises to bring a fresh wave of genre-blending storytelling to global audiences, Los Angeles-based studio Happy Accidents has joined forces with Australian production companies Total Fiction and Screen Invaders to co-produce and distribute the highly anticipated series "Gnomes". This 6×30′ drama-comedy series has already generated significant buzz in the entertainment industry, thanks to its unique premise, blending elements of horror and comedy in a way that has been described as "Gremlins meets Hot Fuzz". Commissioned by Stan Australia and acquired by German broadcaster ZDFneo via Network Movie, "Gnomes" is poised to become a standout production in the international television landscape.
At the heart of "Gnomes" is a small-town police duo who find themselves in the most unexpected and bizarre conflict imaginable: battling an army of murderous garden gnomes that come to life during the town’s inaugural Gnome-a-Palooza festival. This offbeat premise is set to delight audiences with its perfect mix of humor, suspense, and creative visuals. To bring these mischievous and deadly gnomes to life, the series will utilize a combination of practical effects and cutting-edge visual effects (VFX), ensuring a blend of realism and fantasy that will captivate viewers. The high-quality production and innovative storytelling promise to set "Gnomes" apart in the comedy-drama space.
The creative team behind "Gnomes" is a testament to the project’s potential for success. Award-winning filmmaker Joel Kohn, founder of Screen Invaders, is the mastermind behind the series, serving as its creator and producer. Kohn is joined by John Molloy and Richard Kelly, executive producers from Total Fiction, who bring a wealth of experience from projects like "Barons" and "The Gloaming". Representing Happy Accidents are Holly A. Hines and Eric Jarboe, both accomplished producers with credits such as "Ginny & Georgia" and "The Princess Switch". Their expertise ensures that "Gnomes" will be both a critical and commercial success. The scripts are being penned by Australian comedy writers Tegan Higginbotham and Paul Verhoeven, whose sharp wit and comedic timing are set to shine through in the series. Adding to the project’s dynamism is Matthias Hoene, a seasoned director known for his work on "Theodosia" and "Cockneys vs Zombies," who has been brought on board as the setup director.
The enthusiasm for "Gnomes" is evident not just from its creative team but also from its early reception in the industry. The series made a significant impression at last year’s Content London Drama Pitch Competition, securing second place among over 200 global entries. This early recognition highlights the project’s universal appeal and the confidence of industry professionals in its potential to resonate with audiences worldwide. Holly Hines, Co-CEO of Happy Accidents, expressed her excitement for the series, stating, "I fell in love with this concept the moment I heard the pitch, and the scripts have been just exceptional. ‘Gnomes’ is a complete gem – wildly imaginative, hilariously offbeat, and unlike anything else in the comedy-drama space." Her sentiments are echoed by Eric Jarboe, who emphasized the global appeal of the series, noting, "The enthusiasm from our partners at Stan Australia and ZDFneo is a testament to how universal its appeal truly is, and we can’t wait to introduce this unique adventure to audiences."
Production for "Gnomes" is set to begin in early 2025 in Australia, marking a major milestone for the involved production companies. For Total Fiction, this series represents its inaugural production since its establishment in 2024, signaling the company’s ambitious entry into the global content creation arena. Similarly, this marks Screen Invaders’ debut series, underscoring their commitment to developing innovative and engaging storytelling. The choice of Australia as the filming location not only highlights the country’s growing influence in global entertainment but also provides a unique backdrop for the series’ blend of humor and horror. The combination of local talent and international expertise promises to elevate the production, ensuring that "Gnomes" is a world-class series from start to finish.
In many ways, "Gnomes" represents more than just a television series – it symbolizes the power of collaboration and creativity in the entertainment industry. By bringing together some of the most innovative minds across Australia and the United States, this project demonstrates how boundary-pushing storytelling can transcend borders and captivate diverse audiences. The series’ unique premise, coupled with its high-quality production and talented team, positions "Gnomes" as one of the most anticipated releases in the coming years. As the industry continues to evolve, projects like "Gnomes" remind us of the magic that happens when creativity and collaboration come together to tell unforgettable stories. With its blend of humor, suspense, and visual brilliance, "Gnomes" is set to leave a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.
