Troll 2 Arrives on Netflix with Mythical Mayhem
Norwegian director Roar Uthaug has returned to helm Troll 2, the highly anticipated sequel to his successful horror comedy, now available for streaming on Netflix. The film continues Norway's unique take on the kaiju genre, bringing Scandinavian mythology to life with impressive visual effects and larger-than-life destruction.
A Rampaging Beast Seeks Revenge
The plot follows a 50-metre tall megatroll that breaks free from a government black site, determined to exact revenge on Norway's founding father, King Olaf, known historically as a notorious troll-scourge. This enraged behemoth, described as resembling Danny McBride suffering from a full-body fungal infection, sets its sights on Trondheim, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
Returning characters include troll expert Nora, played by Ine Marie Wilmann, and ministerial adviser Andreas, portrayed by Kim Falck. They once again find themselves trying to prevent authorities from simply destroying the mythical creature with excessive force. New to the cast is Sara Khorami as a scientist, adding to the film's pointedly diverse representation.
More Than Just Monster Action?
While widescreen mayhem remains the film's primary focus, with standout scenes including the troll peeling open a nightclub roof to snack on apres-ski revelers, director Uthaug appears to be weaving in deeper themes. The film explores how Norway's Christian forefathers imposed uniformity by wiping out trolls, potentially commenting on contemporary social issues.
However, any allegorical elements regarding immigration or multiculturalism are handled lightly, never overshadowing the main attraction: monster action. The now-famous line "We're going to need more wallpaper" serves as the Nordic equivalent of "We're going to need a bigger boat" from Jaws, perfectly capturing the film's blend of destruction and dark humour.
Where the Film Falls Short
Despite its ambitious scope, Troll 2 struggles to find its focus. The film flits between elements reminiscent of Spielbergian wonder, Indiana Jones-style treasure hunting, and Arrival-like communication with alien entities without fully committing to any single approach. Character development remains minimal, with Nora abruptly switching from troll-whisperer to firing holy water-filled grenades at the creatures.
While Norse mythology provides an unusual starting point for monster movies, the execution feels routine. The quips often fall flat, particularly those revolving around interior design concerns amid the chaos. Ultimately, the film fails to distinguish itself significantly from other entries in the mockbuster genre.
Troll 2 became available on Netflix on December 1st, offering viewers plenty of monster action but little substance beneath the surface. While it delivers on spectacle, those seeking deeper character development or more sophisticated storytelling may find themselves disappointed.
