Goblins – the small, monstrous creatures that are often depicted in myth and folklore, have been featured in a myriad of films throughout the years. Their appearances range from mischievous troublemakers to dangerous obstacles, and even to friendly helpers. This comprehensive guide delves into the must-see movies about goblins, offering the reader an overview of the different portrayals of these fascinating and varied creatures.
Harry Potter Series
The Harry Potter series, based on the popular books by J.K. Rowling, is known to feature goblins prominently. These goblins are in charge of the financial system, and they play a crucial role in the wizarding world.
Goblins in Harry Potter
In the Harry Potter franchise, goblins are shown as intelligent beings, entrusted with the management of Gringotts Wizarding Bank. Unlike the typical portrayal of goblins, these characters are not depicted as monstrous but rather skilled craftsmen and cunning bankers.
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, a film based on the classic novel by J.R.R. Tolkien, features goblins as dangerous obstacles that the protagonist and his comrades must overcome on their quest.
Goblins as Antagonists
In this film, goblins are not friendly or helpful; instead, they are depicted as enemies of the protagonists. They are shown as a subspecies of Orcs, supporting the dark lord Sauron in his quest to take over Middle-Earth.
Labyrinth
Labyrinth, a fantasy film starring David Bowie, centers around a goblin king and his army of goblin minions. The goblins in this film are neither completely evil nor entirely benign.
Jareth the Goblin King
In Labyrinth, David Bowie plays Jareth, the Goblin King, a shapeshifter who rules over the goblins. The goblins in this film are not particularly intelligent, lowering the level of threat they pose to the protagonist.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, a spin-off of the Harry Potter series, offers another perspective on goblins. In this film, the goblin Gnarlack, played by Ron Perlman, is portrayed as a shady character who owns an underground bar.
The Goblin Gnarlack
Gnarlack, the goblin bartender, is shown to be opportunistic and untrustworthy. He doesn’t hesitate to betray the protagonists to the magic police force in order to claim a reward.
Ghoulies
The Ghoulies is a horror-comedy film that features goblin-like creatures who cause chaos and destruction. These creatures are not friendly; instead, they are depicted as malevolent beings who wreak havoc wherever they go.
The Ghoulies’ Rampage
In the Ghoulies, the goblin-like creatures are conjured in a ritual and then proceed to attack the protagonist’s friends, causing them to flee the mansion.
Halloweentown
Halloweentown, a Disney Channel original movie, features a goblin character named Luke who is unlike the typical goblin. Rather than causing trouble, Luke saves lives.
Luke the Goblin
Unlike most goblins, Luke prefers saving lives to taking them. He becomes an ally to the protagonist, Marnie, even risking his life to save her.
Movies with Goblin-like Creatures
Apart from films featuring actual goblins, there are numerous other films that feature goblin-like creatures. These movies often blur the lines between goblins and other mythical creatures, resulting in unique and diverse representations.
Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark
In the movie Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark, the Homunculi are goblin-like creatures who kidnap children. These creatures are not friendly; instead, they are depicted as sinister beings who lurk in the dark.
Troll
The movie Troll features a mischievous troll who takes possession of a young girl. Though not technically a goblin, the troll exhibits similar characteristics, such as causing trouble and bringing about chaos.
Upcoming Movies featuring Goblins
There are also several upcoming movies that promise to feature goblins in interesting and unique ways.
M3gan
Set to release in 2023, M3gan is a movie about a deranged AI doll with killer dance moves. While not a goblin in the traditional sense, the doll exhibits goblin-like behavior, causing mischief and danger.
Cocaine Bear
Another movie set for release in 2023, Cocaine Bear tells the story of a bear that consumes cocaine. The bear’s subsequent behavior has been described as goblin-like, causing chaos and posing a threat to those around it.
Animated TV Shows with Goblins
Goblins are not only found in films but also in animated TV shows. These shows often portray goblins in a more light-hearted and comical way.
Goblin Slayer
Goblin Slayer is an anime show that revolves around a man dedicated to exterminating all goblins. It depicts goblins as dangerous creatures that need to be slain.
American Dragon: Jake Long
In the show American Dragon: Jake Long, goblins are shown as creatures living among humans in an alternate present-day world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, goblins, as depicted in films, come in all shapes and sizes. They can be villains, allies, or something in between. Whether you are interested in the mischievous tricksters, the dangerous monsters, or the friendly helpers, there is a multitude of movies about goblins for you to enjoy. From the magical world of Harry Potter to the goblin-infested Labyrinth, these films provide an intriguing exploration of the rich folklore surrounding these mythical creatures.
So go ahead, take a trip into the fantastical world of goblins and discover the diverse ways these creatures have been brought to life on the big screen. Enjoy, you filthy goblins!
