TROLL 2 (NETFLIX) (2025)

SYNOPSIS: A new troll has awakened! Join Nora, Andreas, and Captain Kris as they embark on their most dangerous adventure yet. With the clock ticking and chaos spreading, they’ll need new allies and ancient secrets to stop the rampage. Can they save Norway before it’s too late? 

MOVIE REVIEW:

As with any Hollywood kaiju or monster franchise, the sequels tend to get bigger, louder, and not necessarily better. The Norwegian creature feature Troll (2022), one of Netflix’s surprise mega-hits, now returns with a sequel from original helmer Roar Uthaug and screenwriter Espen Aukan.

Original cast members Nora Tidemann, Kim S. Falck-Jørgensen, and Mads Sjøgård Pettersen reprise their roles as Nora, the Troll whisperer; Andreas, the government worker and Kris, the military soldier who now holds the rank of major.

In short, the sequel sees a vengeful Troll named Jotun accidentally revived by Nora, and the creature begins marching toward Trondheim where an ancient cathedral resides. Meanwhile, Nora (the ever-reliable Troll whisperer, remember?) manages to lure out a younger Troll—dubbed Beautiful—hoping he can communicate with his older counterpart and put a stop to the destruction.

To Uthaug and Aukan’s credit, Troll 2 doesn’t rely solely on bombastic action. This time, the narrative leans heavily into world-building, expanding the mythology and folklore of these mythical creatures. Christianity, war, and churches all find their way into the escalating conflict between troll and man or is it man vs. troll? Honestly, it becomes a little unclear where this branch of Norse mythology is heading. But before any of it can be properly dissected, we’re treated to an all-out Godzilla vs. Kong-style finale.

Compared to the original, this outing lacks the comedic flair and constant set pieces that made the first film such a crowd-pleaser. As mentioned earlier, there’s plenty of exposition but not much that makes the adventure more exciting. Even new characters like Sara Khorami’s Marion, head of the facility that kept Jotun contained and a potential love interest for Kris fail to energize the proceedings.

Still, Uthaug is committed to delivering solid Troll-on-Troll WWE action, and the finale is proof of that intent. Unfortunately (spoilers!), there are at least two unnecessary deaths that seem inserted solely to force emotional beats. This Norwegian monster series might not be perfect, but in a cinematic landscape dominated by Kong and Godzilla, another troll rampaging around isn’t likely to annoy anyone. And yes—the sequel already hints at a third.

MOVIE RATING:

Review by Linus Tee