Troll Dolls: A Colorful History and Resurgence
The Origins of Troll Dolls
In the quaint Danish town of Gjøl, amidst the economic hardships following World War II, a baker named Thomas Dam embarked on a new path. Inspired by his children’s love of his whimsical wood carvings, he created tiny trolls and sold them door-to-door. The dolls’ unique charm and affordability quickly made them a sensation.
The Rise and Fall of Troll Dolls
By the 1960s, troll dolls had become an international phenomenon. Priced at around 65 cents to $5.95 per doll, they spawned a wide range of merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and playsets. President John F. Kennedy even welcomed a troll doll named Dammit aboard Betty Miller’s historic solo trans-Pacific flight.
However, the doll’s popularity waned in the 1970s due to competition from cheaper imitators and changing tastes. Copyright issues also plagued Dam’s company, allowing unlicensed manufacturers to flood the market.
The Comeback of Troll Dolls
Nostalgia proved to be a powerful force in the 1980s and 1990s, as collectors and enthusiasts rediscovered the joy of troll dolls. New lines, such as Norfin and Russ Berrie, emerged, introducing updated designs and expanding the range of collectible varieties.
Troll doll collecting became a thriving subculture, with dedicated collectors specializing in specific types or eras of dolls. The value of rare and vintage trolls soared, with some collectors amassing impressive collections numbering in the thousands.
DreamWorks and the Trolls Franchise
In 2013, DreamWorks Animation acquired the licensing rights for troll dolls. Its animated film “Trolls” (2016), starring Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake, introduced the colorful characters to a new generation of children. The film’s success spawned a sequel, “Trolls World Tour” (2020), which became a case study for Hollywood’s digital future.
The McElroy Brothers’ Unlikely Journey
The comedic McElroy brothers, known for their popular podcast “My Brother, My Brother, and Me,” embarked on an ambitious scheme to land roles in “Trolls World Tour.” Through a combination of social media campaigning and sheer determination, they convinced DreamWorks to give them a chance.
To their surprise, the brothers were cast in multiple voice acting parts in the film. Their involvement added a touch of humor and made them beloved figures among fans of the franchise.
Trolls in the Digital Age
The release of “Trolls World Tour” during the coronavirus pandemic highlighted the growing importance of digital streaming in the entertainment industry. The film’s success demonstrated the viability of releasing new movies directly to viewers’ homes, paving the way for future innovations in distribution.
The Future of Trolls
Troll dolls have proven their enduring appeal, capturing the hearts of generations of children. If the 30-year cycle holds true, the world is due for another troll resurgence. DreamWorks Animation has been a major catalyst in this revival, showcasing the versatility and charm of these iconic toys. As nostalgia continues to drive the collector market and digital distribution opens up new possibilities, the future of trolls looks bright.