Comparing the New Netflix Animated Series Trollhunters to the 2010 Norwegian Film Trollhunter
Comparing the New Netflix Animated Series Trollhunters to the 2010 Norwegian Film Trollhunter
Introduction
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, it is fascinating to observe how different media adaptations can take the same concept and present it in entirely unique ways. The 2010 Norwegian film Trollhunter and the upcoming Netflix animated series Trollhunters both share the theme of mythical creatures, but the similarities end there. In this article, we will explore the numerous differences and some thematic elements that connect these two stories, providing readers with an in-depth comparison that could help them decide which version to watch first.
Differences: Layers of the Mythic
What Are Trolls?
Trollhunter from 2010 portrays trolls as large, sometimes massive, humanoid creatures that roam the remote wilderness of Norway. These trolls are not depicted as intelligent or complex; rather, they are presented as sizeable, unintelligent beings. Conversely, in the upcoming Netflix animated series Trollhunters, the trolls appear as mythological figures residing in a fantastical, hidden realm. This new interpretation provides trolls with a more nuanced and engaging backstory.
Why Are Trolls Being Hunted?
In Trollhunter, the Norwegian government enforces the hunt of trolls that leave their natural habitat, fearing a potential breach of the supernatural world. The animosity arises from the trolls' invasion of human territory, leading to a regulatory dance between the authorities and the creatures.
In Trollhunters, the motive is much simpler: trolls are hunted because they are portrayed as malevolent beings. This approach adds an element of straightforward, good-versus-evil conflict that provides a clear narrative arc for the story to unfold.
Setting
Trollhunter is firmly rooted in the Norwegian landscape, maintaining a sense of realism and grounding within a familiar world. The hunt and the stories surrounding these elusive creatures are tied to the cultural backdrop of Norway, making the narrative feel authentic and culturally immersive.
Trollhunters, on the other hand, moves the setting to California, placing the story within a more modern and relatable environment. This change allows the narrative to integrate a broader socio-cultural context and introduces fantastical elements in a way that feels fresh and contemporary.
Genre
Trollhunter is a horror documentary-style thriller, with the film following the story of a group of university students who film and record the events of encountering a troll hunter. This approach creates an eerie atmosphere and an alternating blend of reality and the unknown, often leaving the viewer questioning the reliability of the footage.
Trollhunters, targeted towards a younger audience, draws inspiration from classic adventure movies like The Goonies. This adds a playful and engaging tone to the narrative, encouraging viewers to consider parallels with more familiar storytelling methods, such as myth and folklore.
Similarities: The Heart of Mythology
Despite the profound differences in presentation, both narratives share a core element: the existence of mythical creatures that bridge the ordinary and the extraordinary. The presence of trolls in both stories is the central figure that ties the narrative together, providing a common ground for comparison.
Conclusion
While the Netflix animated series Trollhunters and the 2010 Norwegian film Trollhunter are vastly different in almost every way, they both harness the power of mythical creatures to captivate and challenge audiences. Understanding these contrasts and similarities can help viewers choose which portrayal of trolls resonates with them most, ensuring an enriched experience with either film or series.
Disclaimer:
The author of this article has not read the book Trollhunters, but they have conducted research on the subject matter and have watched the Netflix series. The information provided is based on both the film and the series' content and promotional material.