Troll (2022) – Netflix’s Nordic Monster Movie Review

Introduction

Netflix’s Troll (2022) takes viewers on a thrilling journey into the heart of Scandinavian folklore, blending action, adventure, and mythological horror. Directed by Roar Uthaug, the film draws inspiration from Norway’s rich mythological heritage, creating a modern monster movie with deep cultural roots. But does Troll deliver the excitement and suspense expected of a creature feature, or does it crumble under its own weight? Let’s break it down in this in-depth review.

Plot Summary

Set against the breathtaking Norwegian landscape, Troll follows Nora Tidemann, a paleontologist who gets pulled into an extraordinary crisis when a massive creature awakens from the mountains of Dovre. After centuries of dormancy, an ancient troll emerges, wreaking havoc as it heads toward Oslo.

The Norwegian government, caught off guard, turns to Nora for answers. With the help of her father Tobias, a former folklore expert, and a military advisor Captain Kristoffer, Nora must decipher the troll’s origins and intentions before it reaches the capital. As she digs deeper into history and mythology, she realizes that the answers lie in Norway’s past—where folklore and reality collide in terrifying ways.

Character Development

Nora Tidemann

As the film’s protagonist, Nora (played by Ine Marie Wilmann) is a compelling character—intelligent, determined, and skeptical at first, but soon open to the supernatural explanations surrounding the troll. Her transformation from a scientist driven by logic to someone who accepts the truth of ancient myths is one of the film’s strongest elements.

Tobias

Nora’s father Tobias (played by Gard B. Eidsvold) serves as the wise old guide, believing in folklore when no one else does. His character adds depth, illustrating the generational divide between modern science and ancient beliefs.

Captain Kristoffer

Kristoffer (Mads Sjøgård Pettersen) provides the military perspective, balancing skepticism with action. His role helps bridge the scientific and government response to the troll threat, making him a crucial piece in the narrative puzzle.

Visual Effects and Cinematography

One of Troll’s biggest strengths is its stunning visuals. The CGI work on the troll itself is impressive, capturing the raw power and sheer scale of the creature while maintaining a realistic, earthy texture that makes it feel like it belongs in the Norwegian landscape. The way it interacts with its surroundings—crushing trees, blending into rocky cliffs, and leaving devastation in its wake—is a testament to high-quality special effects.

Cinematographer Jallo Faber makes full use of Norway’s majestic landscapes, with sweeping shots of mountains, valleys, and fjords that add a grand, mythical feel to the story. The contrast between these serene, ancient landscapes and the chaos the troll brings creates a visually arresting experience.

Soundtrack and Atmosphere

The film’s sound design and musical score, composed by Johannes Ringen, contribute significantly to the eerie and mystical ambiance. The music blends traditional Nordic influences with suspenseful orchestration, heightening tension at key moments. The rumbling footsteps of the troll, the eerie silence before destruction, and the roar of the beast all help immerse viewers in this mythological world.

Themes and Messages

Troll is more than just a monster movie; it carries deeper environmental and cultural themes:

• Folklore vs. Science: The film explores the clash between modern skepticism and ancient beliefs, emphasizing that myths often have a basis in reality.
• Humanity’s Disregard for Nature: The troll’s awakening is linked to human activity, raising questions about how modern society treats the natural world.
• Cultural Identity: By incorporating Norwegian mythology, Troll celebrates its roots, making it stand out from typical Hollywood creature features.

Strengths

✅ Engaging Nordic folklore – A fresh take on the monster movie genre, inspired by Scandinavian myths. ✅ Stunning cinematography – Beautiful shots of Norway’s landscapes enhance the film’s atmosphere. ✅ Impressive CGI – The troll looks authentic and terrifying. ✅ Well-paced action – The film keeps viewers engaged without unnecessary filler.

Weaknesses

❌ Predictable plot – The storyline follows familiar beats seen in other monster movies. ❌ Some underdeveloped characters – While Nora shines, supporting characters lack depth. ❌ Lack of deep horror elements – More of an action-adventure than a true horror film.

Final Verdict

Troll (2022) delivers a visually stunning, action-packed monster movie with deep ties to Norwegian folklore. While it doesn’t completely reinvent the genre, it offers a fresh setting, a well-crafted creature, and enough thrilling moments to keep audiences engaged. If you enjoy films like Godzilla or Kong: Skull Island but want something with a Nordic twist, Troll is definitely worth watching.

Conclusion

Netflix’s Troll is a thrilling blend of Nordic mythology, action, and stunning cinematography, making it a standout entry in the monster movie genre. Whether you’re a fan of creature features or fascinated by Scandinavian folklore, this film delivers an entertaining adventure that’s both visually impressive and thematically rich. Don’t miss it!