Dreamworks’ Trolls franchise is back with Trolls Band Together, the third installment that doubles down on the jukebox musical formula. It’s a sugar rush of animation and familiar tunes, but one has to wonder if the reliance on karaoke covers and pop songs is starting to wear thin. While undeniably vibrant and geared towards younger audiences, the question remains: are the trolls film songs enough to mask a predictable plot and formulaic approach?
The animation in Trolls Band Together continues to be a visual treat, showcasing Dreamworks’ artistic talent in creating a world bursting with color and texture. These films have always excelled in their visual presentation, and the latest entry is no exception. The problem, however, lies in the narrative substance. Beneath the dazzling surface and catchy trolls film songs, the storyline feels like a familiar rehash. We are presented with a paper-thin premise – Branch’s long-lost brother John Dory suddenly appears to recruit siblings for a rescue mission. This convenient backstory serves merely as a vehicle to transport viewers through a series of visually distinct realms, each setting the stage for another round of popular music covers.
The core issue with Trolls Band Together, and indeed the entire franchise, is its superficial engagement with its own elements. Just as you start to appreciate a song or a visually interesting scene, the film rushes you to the next, offering little time for genuine exploration or emotional depth. It’s a relentless barrage of trolls film songs and vibrant imagery, designed for immediate gratification rather than lasting impact. The film operates like a curated playlist, jumping from one familiar hit to another, prioritizing quantity over quality and fleeting enjoyment over narrative coherence. While this approach may captivate very young viewers, older audiences might find themselves craving more substance beneath the sugary coating of trolls film songs and eye-catching animation. The charm of sing-along moments is undeniable, and the music is undoubtedly catchy, especially for its target demographic. But ultimately, Trolls Band Together feels like a missed opportunity to create a story as imaginative and engaging as its visual presentation.
