Dreamworks’ Trolls World Tour is the first film of 2020 to have a theatrical release date but directly released to VOD. This sequel follows queen Poppy and the rest of the trolls several years later after the first movie
Poppy learns about the existence of other groups of trolls that have been living in tribes based on their music. The leader of each group has a string representing their music; Pop, Rock, Classical, Funk, Techno, and Country (six strings). Queen Poppy (queen of Pop) receives an invitation from the Queen of Rock, Barb, and soon learns Barb’s true intentions (to collect all strings and have Rock dominate their world) so Branch and Poppy embark on a journey to save all music.
Let’s start with brief thoughts on the first film. My daughters loved it; they’re attracted to vibrant colors, glitter, and music. I, on the other hand, thought it was a decent film. So I wasn’t looking forward to this film and had little expectations going into it.
Trolls World Tour‘s sure to keep your children’s attention for the entirety of the film. Its vibrant glittery colors and upbeat music will keep them entertained.
Somehow this sequel manages to surpass its predecessor with its animation. The different groups are smartly color toned with their respective trolls having unique appearances. Frankly, I was blown away by the techno world with its fluorescence colors. However, I do admit that its music isn’t memorable as the first film (with a slight exception of the finale). The music, at times, felt thrown in there with no other purpose but to slightly bring nostalgia.
I was slightly frustrated by some decisions from the characters, and sadly one character, in particular, was mishandled. The introduction of the new trolls is a breath of fresh air with Sam Rockwell’s character nearly stealing the spotlight.
It’s a kids’ film, so the jokes are mostly aimed at them although I did have a laugh or two. I wish we would’ve spent more time with the different groups, the few subgenre groups add a slight diversity to the music, and I was smiling when Reggaeton made a presence thanks to J Balvin.
When you sit down to watch a Trolls movie, the last thing you expect is a message of diversity. I admire this movie for having the courage to address historical events. The history of music was a ballsy topic to explore. Each string and the book where their history’s written’s used brilliantly to remind us about how we’ve learned history. We tend to learn it through the eyes of the conquerors. For the most part, it’s revised for their benefit.
Lastly, the message it sends about diversity in culture, music, and complexions is desperately needed right now. All of this leading to the final song where every genre comes together in one song, not as one but incorporating the different rhythms and sounds, making a memorable scene. Children, and most importantly adults, must know we can coexist regardless of our differences in opinions, culture, beliefs, and appearances.
I give this film an 8 out of 10
