New musical puns and even more tunes have been Troll-matized in DreamWorks latest. Unlike the last film where fans get to discover various subspecies exist, Trolls Band Together broadens the world so that fans can find just how diverse it is. That is, it’s not entirely populated by these tiny singing Muppets. There’s other species who also love breaking out into song.
Although the Mount Rageons are rather creepy looking, perhaps the character design was intentional. They are either modelled after Gumby or are related to a toy line I never played with. However, I can’t help but think that cackling doll from the movie Poltergeist was an influence! When two of them (conveniently a sibling pair named Velvet and Veneer, played by Amy Schumer and Andrew Rannells) have kidnapped Floyd, one of Branch’s brothers, just so they can steal his mojo, I thought this film is a retread of the original.
The concept is thankfully different. Instead of consuming one for happiness, the threat concerns how to take talent away. It seems this brother and sister duo don’t think they got what it takes to be superstars. They aren’t talented enough and have to somehow magically steal what makes a Troll a troll. The method isn’t entirely made clear, but it looks like sweating it out is part of the process.
Meanwhile, Branch (Justin Timberlake), Poppy (Anna Kendrick), and their friends have to figure out how to infiltrate this world of giants to free the lost brother. Unlike the introduction where we see them fight over the right to be leader, and later decide to part ways, they better team up if they’re to survive.
There are tiny elements to enjoy about a movie that is about reuniting family. While it’s primarily focussed on Branch, there’s also another character who learns she has a sibling too! And the homage to the 70s was certainly noticeable. Also, not every boy band is represented! While some of these groups are manufactured like The Monkees, others are not. Also, I would’ve preferred to see some reference to the industry, where their popularity in Asia is huge! That is, why were the songs from Exo, Seo Taiji or R1SE not featured?
The emphasis on American acts is rather misguided. I’m sure when Trolls Band Together hits more markets, the eagle-eyed will take notice! I could’ve missed the reference, so a rewatch will be required.
Story-wise, there are lots of subplots to get resolved. This film is really about Branch reuniting with his brothers, John Dory (Eric André), Spruce (Daveed Diggs), Clay (Kid Cudi) and Floyd (Troye Sivan). In real life, N Sync reunited to appear in this film, and that’s enough to get the boy band fan in me excited! Even the leader of the Trolls has a tale. Although it’s nice to see Poppy find she’s not alone, I thought this adds completely unnecessary.
As for which film I like the most, Trolls World Tour is the best! That’s because of Ozzy getting the best role, and afterwards, any followup just won’t be the same. Also, after listening to this Trolls Band Together soundtrack, I don’t think I want to “Do the Hustle” again.
3 Stars out of 5
Trolls Band Together Trailer
