“And then God said, let there be farts!” Imagine the entire universe beginning not with a mighty roar but with a comedic ripple of flatulence. Godfart, a 2-minute short film written and directed by indie filmmaker Michael Langan, takes audiences on a wild, hilariously absurd ride through the universe's origins. Premiering at Fantastic Fest 2024 and originally created for Adult Swim, Godfart is now available online for everyone to enjoy.
What is Godfart About?
At its core, Godfart is a satirical take on the creation myth. Before God could set the universe into motion, He needed breakfast. Starring Russell Hodgkinson as the bearded, all-powerful yet comically hungry deity, the short film traces how the Big Bang—quite literally—came to be.
With its playful narrative, sharp comedic timing, and brilliantly exaggerated execution, Godfart takes a seemingly simple joke and turns it into a visually entertaining spectacle. The film blends physical humor with a quirky, almost surreal aesthetic that reminds audiences not to take life—or the origins of existence—too seriously.
Behind the Scenes: The Team that Made It Happen
- Director & Writer: Michael Langan, a Seattle-based filmmaker known for his surreal and inventive work, directed Godfart. His previous collaborations include projects with notable artists like Reggie Watts, Iris Van Herpen, and Brett Gelman.
- Starring: Russell Hodgkinson, best known for his roles in quirky comedies, brings his unique charm to the role of God.
- Cinematography: Chris Mosson captures the divine chaos in stunning and humorous visuals.
- Producer: Jonathan Caso
Michael Langan's work often pushes creative boundaries, as evidenced by his earlier film Doxology, a similarly whimsical yet artistic take on storytelling.
Reception and Audience Reaction
After premiering at the 2024 Fantastic Fest, Godfart received positive buzz for its originality and hilarity. Fans of Adult Swim's unique brand of humor will find this short film a delightful addition to the network's catalog. Its absurdist concept and tight 2-minute runtime make it highly watchable, earning it a warm reception from online audiences and comedy enthusiasts.
Where to Watch:
The film is now available to stream online via YouTube and Michael Langan's official website. For more of his work, fans can check out his Vimeo page or follow him on Instagram (@langanfilms).
Godfart is a perfect example of how a simple comedic idea can be executed with flair and precision. Michael Langan's blend of physical humor, impeccable timing, and quirky visuals turns this short into a must-watch. Whether you're a fan of surreal comedies, religious satire, or simply in need of a good laugh, Godfart delivers an unforgettable experience.
My Impressions: Godfart is both ridiculous and brilliant, embodying the charm of indie filmmaking. Michael Langan's ability to take a humorous, far-fetched idea and make it visually compelling deserves applause. Russell Hodgkinson is perfectly cast as the lovable, befuddled version of God, blending just the right amount of gravitas and silliness.
The film's tight 2-minute runtime ensures that the joke lands without overstaying its welcome, and the visuals are surprisingly polished for such a whimsical concept. My favorite part is the juxtaposition between God's epic persona and the mundane act of searching for breakfast. The “big bang” payoff is hilarious and unexpected, leaving viewers both amused and bewildered.
Overall, Godfart is a tiny comedic gem that proves humor doesn't need complexity to be memorable.
Do you think short films like Godfart showcase the future of indie comedy, or do they risk being seen as too niche?