Long before Branch (Justin Timberlake) ever met Poppy (Anna Kendrick), Branch was a member of the famous pop band “BroZone”. Made up of Branch and his brothers, the band was doing well until they had a disagreement before a massive performance. The arguments and disputes led to a poor performance in front of a wild crowd filled with die-hard fans, and the band soon decided to go their separate ways, leaving Branch all alone.
In the present day, Branch and Poppy couldn’t be happier together, although Branch has never told Poppy about his days in a boy band, nor has he ever spoken about his other siblings. However, Branch’s past is about to catch up with him. John, the oldest of the brothers, pleads for Branch’s help as one of his fellow brothers has been kidnapped, and the only way to save him is to bring the band back together and sing the perfect harmony.
For those unaware, Trolls Band Together serves as a third instalment within the franchise and has yet again been directed by Walt Dohrn, this time with co-director Tim Heitz. As a third instalment, the film follows a simple and safe concept based around family. Like the other Trolls movies, it is a film with stunningly bright visuals, wild and loud characters, and, most importantly, fun musical items that are nearly impossible not to groove to.
There are plenty of jokes and easter eggs throughout, particularly about bands such as Boyz II Men, One Direction, Backstreet Boys, and New Kids on the Block. On top of this, there are also plenty of random one-liners along the way. As an adult and parent, I can proudly say I found some moments of this film enjoyable, but for the vast majority, Trolls Band Together feels like a drag. The family focused story line is a great touch, and the music is fun. Still, its positive messaging is unclear and vague, and some jokes felt inappropriate for a younger audience, such as a gag where a pair of creatures who recently got married make suggestive comments about being “tied up” in a naughty way on their honeymoon (what the?). In the end, just like the previous instalments, Trolls Band Together is a brainless time more aimed at younger crowds, who will be entranced and hypnotised by the stunning visuals, lively music, and the many beautiful locations our leads journey to.
[mailerlite_form form_id=1]Overall, fans of the previous instalments will know what to expect: bright, colourful Trolls on a whole new adventure with random one-liners, references to popular bands and other pop culture gags, and the most important thing: songs! But sadly, the plot for this one had a minor impact on me, with its key messages being vague and unclear. The comedy here also feels weak and sometimes even a little inappropriate. If you are an adult or parent, this will likely be a torturous and slow film to get through, but there’s no denying it: a much younger crowd will lock eyes on the screen in a trance-like state, enjoying all the characters, visuals and music.
Trolls Band Together (2023) is Available in Australian Cineams from November 30th!
4.5/10
29th November 2023
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
PODCASTS ARE AVAILABLE!
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