Trolls 4 (2026) – Detailed Review
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Overview

Trolls 4 (2026) is the latest installment in DreamWorks’ vibrant and musically-driven Trolls franchise. Following the immense success of the previous films, which revolved around the colorful, music-loving trolls led by Poppy (voiced by Anna Kendrick) and Branch (voiced by Justin Timberlake), Trolls 4 takes the beloved characters on an entirely new, high-energy adventure. The film continues to explore themes of friendship, individuality, and the power of music, while introducing new characters, songs, and worlds to expand the Trolls universe.

In Trolls 4, Poppy and Branch, along with their friends, face new challenges that test their bonds, as a new threat looms over the Trolls’ peaceful world. Expect even more dazzling musical numbers, eye-popping animation, and heartfelt moments that will resonate with both kids and adults.

Storyline

The story of Trolls 4 picks up after the events of Trolls World Tour (2020), where the trolls had united their individual music tribes. Peace reigns across the world of the Trolls, and Poppy is now the official queen, overseeing the harmony between the tribes. However, the peace is soon disrupted when a mysterious new character, Vexa (voiced by a yet-to-be-announced high-profile actor), appears from a distant land known as the Harmonic Void—a place where music and joy are forbidden.

Vexa, the leader of a new group called the Silent Ones, comes from a world where silence is imposed on all citizens, and she believes that the Trolls’ loud, colorful, and musical way of life is a threat to her vision of order. She seeks to take over the Troll Kingdom and strip them of their music and color, believing that peace can only be achieved through silence and uniformity.

Poppy and Branch must embark on a journey to stop Vexa, uncovering the origins of the Harmonic Void and the truth behind the Silent Ones’ mysterious society. Along the way, they will encounter new allies and foes, as well as explore more of the fantastical realms in the Trolls’ world, each with its own music-based culture and vibrant landscapes.

Poppy, as the new queen, faces the responsibility of leading her people in the face of this new threat, while Branch, who has become more open and emotional after his journey in Trolls World Tour, must confront his own fears about change, responsibility, and leadership. The film also focuses on the growth of other beloved characters, such as Biggie, Guy Diamond, Smidge, and DJ Suki, who will each have their own arcs and moments to shine.

The climax of the film culminates in an epic musical showdown between the Trolls and the Silent Ones, where music, color, and self-expression become key to defeating the forces of silence and conformity.

Characters and Performances

• Poppy (voiced by Anna Kendrick) – As the queen of the Trolls, Poppy has grown into a strong leader, but she is still the same optimistic, warm-hearted Troll we know and love. In Trolls 4, she is faced with the challenges of leadership, responsibility, and staying true to herself while guiding her people through this crisis. Kendrick’s performance is full of energy and emotion, capturing Poppy’s determination and vulnerability as a leader.
• Branch (voiced by Justin Timberlake) – Branch has come a long way since the first Trolls film. Once a grumpy and solitary character, Branch is now more emotionally open and confident. His bond with Poppy has deepened, and his journey in this film centers around his fears about change, growth, and the responsibilities that come with leadership. Justin Timberlake brings his signature charm to the role, delivering both humor and heartfelt moments.
• Vexa (voiced by [TBD]) – Vexa is the film’s main antagonist, a mysterious figure from the Harmonic Void who seeks to impose silence and order on the world of the Trolls. Her character is complex, as she believes in the power of silence and the suppression of emotions as a form of peace. This conflict makes her a compelling villain with depth, and her character arc will challenge Poppy and Branch to question the true meaning of harmony. The casting of Vexa will likely feature a prominent, talented voice actor known for their ability to convey both menace and emotional depth.
• Biggie (voiced by James Corden) – Biggie, the lovable and gentle giant, returns in Trolls 4 with his lovable pet, Mr. Dinkles. Biggie’s arc in the film involves learning to be more confident in his own unique talents and how he can contribute to the fight against Vexa. James Corden brings his usual warmth and humor to the role.
• Guy Diamond (voiced by Kunal Nayyar) – Guy Diamond, the glittery and fabulous Troll, continues to embrace his eccentricity in Trolls 4. In this sequel, Guy Diamond must confront his own fears about being too different and embrace his individuality even more. Kunal Nayyar’s voice work brings humor and a touch of heart to the character.
• Smidge (voiced by [TBD]) – Smidge, the tough but tiny troll, continues to add her energy to the team. As the group’s unlikely powerhouse, Smidge’s arc in the movie centers around finding her own voice in a world that often tries to ignore the small ones. The voice actor for Smidge will likely be someone known for their quick wit and comedic timing.
• DJ Suki (voiced by [TBD]) – DJ Suki, the music-obsessed Troll who loves creating beats and rhythms, gets more screen time in Trolls 4. Her musical abilities will play a crucial role in the battle against the Silent Ones, and she may even discover new genres of music as she journeys with the group.

Themes and Direction

As with the previous Trolls films, Trolls 4 continues to explore themes of self-expression, individuality, and the power of music to unite and heal. The central conflict between the Trolls and the Silent Ones represents the age-old battle between conformity and freedom, silence and expression, with music serving as the ultimate tool for empowerment and connection.

The movie also delves into leadership, particularly through Poppy’s character arc as she grapples with the pressures of being queen while trying to stay true to her free-spirited nature. Her journey is a reflection of growing up and learning how to balance personal desires with the responsibilities of those around her.

The concept of “silence” as a form of control provides a compelling narrative that mirrors real-world struggles with censorship, social conformity, and the suppression of individuality. Vexa’s character, as a villain, embodies the dangers of repressing self-expression, and her actions challenge the values of the Trolls, who thrive on creativity, music, and togetherness.

Musical Numbers and Animation

Music remains a central element in Trolls 4, and this sequel promises even more catchy, original songs along with energetic musical sequences. Expect a blend of genres as the Trolls travel through new lands with different musical influences, including jazz, classical, techno, and rock. There will also be new dance numbers, visual spectacles, and plenty of moments where the Trolls come together to sing and dance in an effort to defeat the forces of silence.

The animation is likely to be as vibrant and colorful as ever, with DreamWorks bringing to life new locations in the Trolls’ world. The Harmonic Void is expected to be depicted in stark contrast to the bright and lively world the Trolls inhabit—showcasing a world of muted colors and sterile landscapes.

Conclusion

Trolls 4 (2026) is set to be another musical extravaganza that delivers heart, humor, and colorful visuals while continuing to explore important themes like individuality, self-expression, and the power of unity. With a new villain and a fresh adventure on the horizon, the movie promises to expand the Trolls universe while remaining true to the charm and values that made the original films so beloved. Fans of the franchise can expect to be swept away by the joyful, musical energy that defines the Trolls series, with the hope that the music never stops.