Trolls Band Together

The third installment of DreamWorks' animated "Trolls" series, "Trolls Band Together," is precisely what I needed — a colorful, joyous escape from reality. Walking into this movie, I had mixed expectations. It was easy to worry that a third film in a series might struggle to maintain its charm and originality, but I was pleasantly surprised. This movie didn’t just meet my expectations; it walked right past them, dancing and singing all the way. Here’s an in-depth look at why "Trolls Band Together" is not only worth your time but is indeed a standout in animated cinema.

History and Introduction

The initial "Trolls" movie was released in 2016, drawing inspiration from the iconic dolls with shockingly colorful, fuzzy hair that first enchanted kids in the 1960s. The franchise set up a vibrant and joyful world of music, love, and friendship. The story centers around Poppy, the Troll King's daughter, played by the ever-talented Anna Kendrick, and Branch, voiced by Justin Timberlake. The dynamic between these two characters forms the heart of the Trolls universe.

The second installment, "Trolls World Tour," expanded the Trolls' universe, introducing different tribes, each embodying a unique genre of music. This sequel reinforced the themes of unity and diversity, emphasizing kindness and inclusivity. Now, in "Trolls Band Together," the filmmakers doubled down on these elements while adding nuanced layers of storytelling and innovative animation techniques.

The Appeal of "Trolls Band Together"

One might ask why a seemingly simple animation about trolls can hold such appeal, especially for adults. The answer lies partly in its clever nods to millennial nostalgia and in-jokes about ‘90s boy bands. But more profoundly, it’s the film’s ability to package profound themes into an accessible, delightful format. As a parent, I find it refreshing to watch a movie with my kids that is as entertaining for me as it is for them.

A Brief Recap for Context

For those who might not have seen the previous films, here's a quick recap. In the first movie, Poppy saves the trolls from the gigantic, troll-eating Bergens. This courageous act sets the tone for her character—optimistic, brave, and relentlessly cheerful. In the second movie, Poppy discovers other troll communities, each with its own distinct musical style, and battles the hard rock Queen Barb, ultimately emphasizing harmony and acceptance.

Branch’s Backstory

Branch’s storyline is particularly engaging in this third installment. Through a flashback, we discover that he and his brothers were members of a boy band called BroZone. This is a brilliant nod to Justin Timberlake’s history with *NSYNC. The creators ingeniously lace the story with references to various boy bands like Boys II Men, One Direction, Backstreet Boys, and more, which not only serves as an entertaining Easter egg hunt for adults but anchors the plot in shared cultural history.

Reunion of the Band

The catalyst for the film’s plot is the arrival of Branch’s oldest brother, John Dory, voiced by Eric André. His mission? To rescue their brother Floyd, held captive by the devious pop duo Velvet and Veneer. The brothers must reunite to save Floyd, which propels the plot forward with urgency and excitement.

Animation and Visual Style

The visual style of “Trolls Band Together” is a feast for the eyes. What really struck me was the innovative use of animation styles. Following the path blazed by “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” this film experiments with diverse animation, shifting from rounded, candy-colored aesthetics to flat, lite-brite-inspired, psychedelic imagery. Each style aligns perfectly with the emotional tone and setting of the scenes, keeping the viewer visually hooked while enhancing the narrative.

Soundtrack and Musical Elements

The film’s soundtrack is another triumph. The melding of classic pop hits with original compositions keeps the energy high and the audience engaged. Songs from familiar eras evoke a sense of nostalgia while the original tracks are catchy and heartfelt. Highlights include the new *NSYNC song that brought the house down in our theater.

Exciting Set Pieces

One memorable sequence takes place in what seems to be a creepy abandoned amusement park, showing the filmmakers’ flair for blending traditional storytelling with surprising twists and multi-generational appeal. Scenes like this one reveal layers of creativity that make each segment of the movie a visual and emotional adventure.

Powerful Themes

While the musical elements and animation dazzle the senses, “Trolls Band Together” doesn’t shy away from exploring significant themes. The movie delves into sibling relationships, accountability, and the enduring impact of past traumas. The character of Viva, exuberantly brought to life by Camila Cabello, adds depth, portraying the struggle between protecting oneself and embracing life’s risks.

Supporting Characters

The movie also shines through its vibrant supporting cast. Zosia Mamet’s Velvet, who has enslaved Crimp (a character that looks like Cousin Itt with a bad perm), and Kenan Thompson’s glittery Tiny Diamond are standout characters who add layers of humor and richness to the narrative.

The Adventure

The quest to rescue Floyd provides an exhilarating journey filled with challenges and discoveries. The movie’s fast-paced narrative ensures there isn’t a dull moment. Each scene transitions smoothly, keeping the excitement alive and driving the story towards a satisfying climax.

Emotional Resonance

Despite the high-energy presentation, the film doesn’t shy away from moments of emotional gravity. The resolution of Branch’s past trauma and his evolution as a character are handled with sincerity, making his journey feel genuinely rewarding.

A Celebration of Community

“Trolls Band Together” is ultimately a celebration of community, friendship, and the magic of music. It teaches us that relationships, whether between family or friends, are built on trust, support, and love. These messages resonate powerfully, especially in a world where such values sometimes seem in short supply.

Conclusion

“Trolls Band Together” encapsulates everything that makes animated films truly special. It’s a vividly colorful, musically rich, and emotionally compelling experience that appeals to both children and adults. The innovative animation, exceptional voice talent, and heartfelt narrative make this film a standout. DreamWorks has crafted a gem that delivers joy, laughter, and touching moments in equal measure.

As I left the theater, I found myself humming the tunes and reflecting on the lessons woven into the fabric of this delightful movie. “Trolls Band Together” is more than just a sequel; it’s an evolution of the franchise that proves sometimes the third time really is a charm.