Troll 2

Troll 2 is a particular 1990s horror-fantasy movie that is notorious for its over-the-top everything, from the acting to the special effects, it does not skimp on any aspect of cinematic extravagance. The film stars Michael Paul Stephenson, George Hardy, and Margo Prey among others.

Troll 2 is uniquely named since it does not follow a direct sequel from the original Troll movie and in fact, does not feature any trolls. The motley crew of actors and an outlandishly convoluted concept turn this film into an absurd and entertaining spectacle.

The movie follows the Waits family, including young Joshua (Michael Paul Stephenson), his father Michael (George Hardy), his mother Diana (Margo Prey), and teenage sister Holly. Together they navigate what can only be described as a bizarre and harrowing experience as they participate in a home exchange program, switching their suburban home with a farmhouse in a rural community appropriately named Nilbog (delightfully, 'Goblin' spelled backward).

Michael Stephenson gives a memorable performance as the young Joshua, who takes center stage in the narrative. This entire ordeal takes on a new level of terror for him when he begins to have encounters with his recently deceased Grandpa Seth. The truth comes to light when his Grandpa Seth reveals the town's deep secret – the residents of Nilbog are not who they appear to be.

George Hardy, a practicing dentist drafted into acting, portrays the family patriarch, Michael. His dedication to his family shines through in his earnest if not always successful attempts to maintain normalcy amidst the growing horrors. As the story unfolds, the tension between mundane family dynamics and the creeping dread of the unknown forms the comic framework of this film.

Margo Prey plays the mother, Diana, providing a grounding presence in the increasingly chaotic events. As the family presses into the heart of Nilbog, Prey’s performance oscillates from nurturing caretaker to fierce protector, holding the family together as things start to spiral out of control.

One intriguing aspect Troll 2 brings to the table is the use of vegetarianism and a play on carnivorous tendencies in humans. The unique approach to the monstrous goblins sets it apart from traditional horror movies. The film abandons faux-realism and instead fully embraces a fantasy element, with ghoulish goblins presented via vivid concoctions of low-budget makeup and special effects.

On the surface, the plot may seem like a familiar horror trope, but the eccentric details and execution quickly derive it from the traditional path, creating an experience quite unlike any other. It's further enlivened by a whimsical and haunting score, threading together the film's disjointed scenes.

Troll 2 was directed by Italian filmmaker Claudio Fragasso, which accounts for its off-kilter dialogue and comically mismatched subtitles. It is the kind of 'so-bad-it's-good' movies that you watch with the joy that only a truly off-the-wall, outrageous, and unpredictable B-grade horror can bring.

As such, the film is often recognized in cult movie circles, where it has flourished into a beloved classic of its kind. It's not only a horror flick but also a dab in fantasy and drama. Troll 2 serves up its outlandish storyline with so much sincerity and commitment that it is impossible not to get sucked into its ridiculous and entertaining void.

Considered as one of the best 'worst' movie ever made, Troll 2 has amassed a dedicated following since its release. Its flawed execution combining with an utterly unique premise ultimately created a memorable and engaging cult classic that is a pinnacle of the 90's B-movie cinema.

Troll 2 should not be critiqued purely based on conventional norms of filmmaking, but accepted and celebrated for all its bizarre glory, as a movie that is not only unforgettable but also strangely endearing. While it may not be the first choice for horror purists, Troll 2 is highly recommended for fans of over-the-top, campy horror and people who enjoy movies that are unabashedly, uniquely strange.

In conclusion, Troll 2 can be credited for being a significant example of passionate filmmaking in spite of its low budget and other limitations. The film stands alone in its genre as a colorfully over-the-top and truly unforgettable cinematic experience. And who knows, it might just make you reconsider the next time you bite into that green icing!