The Enduring Charm of Troll Dolls: From Humble Origins to Digital Dominance

by Jasmine December 4, 2020

written by Jasmine December 4, 2020

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.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.