Trolls
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to Trolls
The 'Trolls' animated film series, originating with the 2016 movie, centers on the perpetually optimistic Princess Poppy and the grumpy Branch as they navigate adventures to save their colorful, music-filled world. The franchise explores themes of happiness, friendship, individuality, and the power of music across various Troll tribes. While initially presenting as a vibrant, lighthearted musical for young children, later installments like 'Trolls World Tour' and 'Trolls Band Together' introduce more mature themes and subtle innuendos, broadening their appeal to older audiences and parents familiar with pop culture references. The films are generally characterized by their bright animation, catchy songs, and positive messages about acceptance and harmony, though the content evolves, leading to increased parental guidance considerations in sequels.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The 'Trolls' franchise, particularly its later installments, incorporates significant LGBTQ+ symbolism and representation. While the first film features subtle allegories, 'Trolls Band Together' includes overt references through visual cues and character casting, solidifying its LGBTQ+ presence.
In 'Trolls Band Together', rainbow flags, reminiscent of LGBT pride parades, are prominently displayed during the wedding of Bridget and King Gristle. The wedding is officiated by Miss Maxine, a character voiced by openly gay drag performer RuPaul Charles. Additionally, the character Boom, voiced by openly gay Lance Bass, has rainbow-colored hair, and the Trolls Trollpedia identifies Boom as the franchise's first officially confirmed LGBT+ character. Characters like Veneer and Floyd are also noted by fans and reviewers as being 'queer-coded' based on voice actors (Andrew Rannells and Troye Sivan, both openly gay) and certain fashion stereotypes.
Scary & Intense Content
The 'Trolls' films, despite their colorful aesthetic, contain elements of peril and intensity. The threat of characters being consumed, combined with scenes of emotional distress and physical harm, can be frightening for younger audiences.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
6+ for the original 'Trolls' movie, increasing to 8+ for subsequent films due to escalating suggestive humor, mild peril, and more overt LGBTQ+ symbolism and representation.
Good to Know
Parents should be aware that while the core messages of friendship and happiness remain consistent, the content, particularly suggestive humor and LGBTQ+ representation, notably increases in intensity and explicitness across the sequels, especially in 'Trolls Band Together'. Discussions around identity, family dynamics (including estranged family), and managing strong emotions are also present. Some allegorical interpretations of substance use have been noted by reviewers for the later films.
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