Trolls Band Together
Trolls Band Together is playing in theaters at the time of writing. Rated PG. Common Sense says 6.
STORY: C-
It’s an epic adventure without the epicness.
It’s a story about family. A story about being brave and opening up your heart to the world. A story that teaches us that the only way to see great results is to put in great effort.
But that stuff doesn’t stick for me. Ask me in a couple days, and all I will be able to tell you is that it’s mostly just about a bunch of trolls hitting some heavily autotuned high notes.
PEOPLE: C-
Every character is as bright and bubbly as the world they live in.
Thematically, it’s always a great move to make the characters a reflection of the world they live in. Unfortunately for us, their lighthearted, silly attitudes keep them from growing in any significant way.
FILM NERD STUFF: C-
No surprise here, but the soundtrack slaps.
The music provides the film with lots of energy. That’s a good thing. Because outside of a few really funny jokes, not much else does.
WE ARE FAMILY (Elective Class): B
The only path to fame - and for some people, to family happiness - is hard work.
There is a high quality message buried beneath the film’s garish, sparkly veneer. One can only hope the movie’s silliness will keep kids’ attention long enough to hear it.
FINAL COMMENTS:
This film is aimed at audiences in the single digits. Most of my criticism won’t matter to them. They will adore this movie. Hopefully, any brave parents who take their kids to see it will catch a favorite song or two to cheer them up as they plow through their parental duties.