Troll (2022) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Norwegian Mythology Comes to Life in an Epic Monster Film
Released in 2022, Troll is a thrilling Norwegian action-adventure film directed by Roar Uthaug, known for his work on Tomb Raider (2018). The movie brings ancient Scandinavian mythology to life, blending a fascinating mix of folklore and modern-day catastrophe. With breathtaking visuals and a compelling storyline, Troll taps into the rich tapestry of Norway’s legendary creatures, offering a gripping tale that pits humanity against an unstoppable force of nature. In this review, we’ll explore the plot, the performances, and where you can stream Troll online, especially if you’re in the U.S.
Plot Overview
Set against the stunning landscapes of Norway, Troll follows a team of scientists and military personnel as they grapple with an ancient myth come to life. Deep within the Dovre Mountains, a mysterious and catastrophic event awakens a giant troll that has been buried beneath the earth for centuries. What was once thought to be a story from Norwegian folklore quickly turns into a terrifying reality, as the massive creature begins rampaging across the country, leaving destruction in its wake.
The story centers around paleontologist Nora Tidemann (Ine Marie Wilmann), who is called in to help understand and, hopefully, stop the troll. As Nora and her team, which includes a military general and her estranged father, Tobias (Gard B. Eidsvold), an eccentric folklorist, struggle to unravel the mystery behind the creature’s existence, they soon realize that stopping the troll may involve more than just modern technology—it may require confronting the myths and legends of their past.
As the troll heads toward Norway’s capital, Oslo, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The film builds tension through the contrast of mythological wonder and modern-day military force, culminating in an epic battle between ancient forces and contemporary science.
Breathtaking Visuals and Cinematic Appeal
One of the highlights of Troll is its stunning visuals and impressive CGI. The troll itself is a towering figure, designed with a sense of awe and danger that captures the essence of old-world legends. Its movement through the mountains, forests, and eventually the cityscapes is both terrifying and visually captivating, making it a truly cinematic experience.
The Norwegian landscapes play a significant role in setting the tone of the film. The fjords, snow-capped mountains, and dense forests provide a majestic backdrop, adding an ethereal beauty to the otherwise destructive storyline. Director Roar Uthaug uses these elements effectively to contrast the vast, ancient forces of nature with the modern world, creating a sense of helplessness against the colossal power of the troll.
The film’s pacing is brisk, moving from one action-packed scene to another while still allowing for moments of character development and reflection. Though the plot follows a familiar monster movie formula, Troll stands out with its unique cultural lens and deep ties to Scandinavian mythology.
The Power of Myth and Folklore
At its core, Troll is not just a monster movie but a narrative steeped in folklore. The film delves into the mythology surrounding trolls, which are an integral part of Scandinavian legends. In ancient tales, trolls are depicted as enormous, humanoid creatures that live in the mountains and are often hostile to humans. The film draws on these ancient myths, offering a modern interpretation of the troll while staying true to the spirit of the folklore.
The relationship between Nora and her father Tobias serves as a thematic anchor, with Tobias representing a connection to the past and the old ways of thinking. Tobias, who has long been obsessed with trolls and Norwegian folklore, believes that understanding the myths may hold the key to defeating the creature. His character provides the philosophical and emotional weight to the story, suggesting that perhaps not all legends are just stories—they may hold real-world truths.
The movie’s thematic exploration of the clash between science and mythology is particularly engaging, as it poses the question: Can ancient legends coexist with modern understanding, or are they bound to clash?
Performances
Ine Marie Wilmann delivers a strong performance as the film’s protagonist, Nora. She portrays a character who is both skeptical of and awed by the creature they are facing. Wilmann brings a sense of grounded realism to the film, as her character struggles to reconcile the scientific world she inhabits with the mythical reality before her.
Gard B. Eidsvold’s portrayal of Tobias, the eccentric folklorist, provides a balance between comic relief and wisdom. His character’s belief in the old legends, initially dismissed by others, becomes central to the team’s ability to confront the troll. Eidsvold plays Tobias with warmth and conviction, making him an endearing character who bridges the gap between modern-day skepticism and ancient wisdom.
Supporting performances by the military characters and government officials help to elevate the tension, adding layers of political and military strategy to the story, though their roles are somewhat secondary to the personal and mythological elements of the plot.
Themes of Nature and Humanity
Beyond its action-packed sequences, Troll explores the relationship between humanity and nature. The troll, in many ways, represents the power of nature reclaiming its place in the world. The film raises questions about humanity’s impact on the environment, with the troll’s reawakening seen as a reaction to human encroachment on nature’s domain.
In this sense, the movie offers subtle commentary on environmental destruction, as well as the dangers of underestimating the natural world. The troll’s ancient power and indifference to human life serve as a reminder of the smallness of humanity in the grand scheme of nature.
Where to Watch Troll Online
If you’re excited to dive into this monster-filled adventure, Troll is available on various streaming platforms. Here are the best options for watching Troll online:
Streaming Services
- Netflix: As of 2022, Troll is a Netflix original film, meaning it is available exclusively on Netflix. If you’re a subscriber, you can stream the film in high definition, and it’s accessible worldwide, including in the U.S.
- Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase): While Netflix holds exclusive streaming rights, Troll may also be available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video in some regions, depending on licensing agreements.
Why Troll Is Worth Watching
Troll delivers a fresh take on the monster movie genre by blending modern storytelling with ancient mythology. The film’s breathtaking visuals, strong performances, and ties to Norwegian folklore make it a must-watch for fans of action, adventure, and fantasy. It offers something more than just mindless destruction—Troll invites viewers to think about the stories we tell and the way they shape our understanding of the world.
If you’re looking for a thrilling, visually stunning film that explores both human and mythical struggles, Troll is a fantastic choice. With its mix of cultural depth and blockbuster action, it’s a film that stands out in the crowded genre of monster movies.
Conclusion
Troll (2022) is a visually striking, thought-provoking adventure that combines the allure of Scandinavian folklore with the excitement of a modern-day disaster movie. Whether you’re drawn to the rich mythology, the powerful action sequences, or the emotional core of the film, Troll has something for everyone. And with its availability on Netflix, it’s easily accessible for viewers worldwide.
