Troll 2 (1990) Review: Cult Classic So-Bad-It’s-Good Horror with Goblins and Absurd Fun

Writer(s):
Rosella Drudi

Director:
Claudio Fragasso

Main Cast: Actor (Character):
Michael Stephenson (Joshua Waits), Margo Prey (Holly Waits), George Hardy (Mike), Darren Ewing (Brandon), Connie Young (Karen)

Synopsis

In Troll 2, the Waits family travels to the small town of Nilbog for a vacation. Unbeknownst to them, the town is inhabited by goblins who plan to turn humans into plants and eat them. Joshua, the young son, discovers the sinister plot and tries to warn his family, but is met with disbelief. The family must face the absurd and often hilarious threats posed by the goblin townsfolk in what has become widely regarded as one of the most infamous films in cult horror history.

What Works

Troll 2 is unintentionally entertaining, earning its status as a cult classic. Its low-budget charm and earnest performances contribute to the film’s bizarre and surreal quality. Michael Stephenson, as Joshua, gives a surprisingly heartfelt performance for such an over-the-top film, providing some emotional grounding amidst the chaos.

The film’s ridiculous dialogue and eccentric characters make it a unique viewing experience. Fans of so-bad-it’s-good cinema will find joy in spotting continuity errors, strange line deliveries, and moments of sheer absurdity. Its campy horror elements, particularly the goblins’ bizarre appearance and antics, have cemented Troll 2 as a staple in midnight movie culture.

What Doesn’t Work

Troll 2 suffers from almost every conventional filmmaking issue: poor acting, awkward dialogue, inconsistent plot logic, and low-quality special effects. The titular trolls don’t even appear in the movie—the antagonists are goblins—leading to confusion and disappointment for first-time viewers. Its pacing is uneven, and some scenes drag unnecessarily.

The film’s attempt at suspense and horror falls flat due to the nonsensical script and over-the-top performances, making it more laughable than scary.

Final Thoughts: Does It Hold Up?

In a traditional sense, no. As a serious horror film, Troll 2 is a failure. However, as a cult classic and a so-bad-it’s-good phenomenon, it holds up remarkably well. Its charm lies in its absurdity, and watching it with the right audience can be a highly entertaining experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Episode?

• Fans of cult films and so-bad-it’s-good cinema.
• Viewers who enjoy laughing at rather than with movies.
• Those who appreciate bizarre and surreal horror.
• Audiences looking for a campy, absurd viewing experience.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

• Viewers expecting a coherent, traditional horror film.
• Audiences seeking genuinely scary content.
• Those who dislike low-budget or amateurish productions.

Final Verdict

Troll 2 (1990) is a cult classic for its unintentional comedy, bizarre dialogue, and memorable moments of cinematic absurdity. While it fails as a conventional horror film, it succeeds as an endlessly entertaining so-bad-it’s-good experience.