Troll (2022) is a Norwegian monster film directed by Roar Uthaug, known for his work on The Wave and the 2018 Tomb Raider reboot. The movie was released on December 1, 2022, and is available for streaming on Netflix.
The film has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 90% approval rating based on 29 critic reviews, suggesting generally favorable opinions. The critics’ consensus reads: “Troll doesn’t rewrite the monster movie rulebooks—but with mythology this rich and action this exciting, it doesn’t have to.” However, the audience score is notably lower at 50%, indicating a more divided reception among general viewers.
Metacritic reports a score of 62 out of 100, based on 4 critic reviews, indicating “generally favorable reviews.” User reviews on the same platform average a score of 5.0 out of 10, reflecting mixed or average reactions.
Los Angeles Times: Noel Murray commented that Troll “succeeds by getting back to basics,” emphasizing its roots in Old Norse mythology.
Bloody Disgusting: Meagan Navarro noted that while the narrative is light, the film reveals its magic when it embraces the monster aspect, delivering on spectacle.
Polygon: Jesse Hassenger observed that the film feels like a pared-down version of a Roland Emmerich blockbuster, resembling Emmerich’s 1998 version of Godzilla but reconfigured for greater speed and efficiency.
Viewer reactions have varied. Some appreciate the film’s special effects and action sequences, while others feel the story is predictable. One audience member stated, “The visuals are good, and the acting is fine, but the plot is forced and predictable.”
The film’s special effects, particularly the depiction of the troll, have been praised for their quality. The creature’s design draws heavily from Scandinavian folklore, presenting a visually compelling monster that aligns with traditional mythological descriptions.
In summary, Troll offers a visually engaging experience that intertwines Norwegian folklore with modern monster movie elements. While it may not break new ground in storytelling, it provides a fresh cultural perspective within the genre.
