What Is Trollhunter About?
The premise of Trollhunter in 270 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the dense, mist‑shrouded forests of Norway, a string of baffling bear attacks has drawn the attention of three ambitious film students. Seeking a story that will launch their careers, they set out to document a solitary hunter rumored to be involved, hoping to capture the tension between local superstition and modern wildlife management. What begins as a straightforward investigation quickly hints at something far older than any official report, suggesting that the wilderness may still be home to creatures long dismissed as legend.
The trio—Thomas, a determined yet sometimes reckless leader; Johanna, whose curiosity is matched only by her willingness to challenge authority; and Kalle, the technical brain with a dry sense of humor—bring contrasting perspectives to the quest. Their dynamic is a blend of youthful idealism and skeptical pragmatism, each pushing the other to look beyond the obvious. Their guide, Hans, is a rugged, reticent figure whose reputation as a bear poacher masks a deeper, secretive purpose. As the students shadow him deeper into the forest, the line between documentary and personal adventure blurs, and their cameras become tools for uncovering a hidden reality.
The film folds its narrative into a hushed, almost documentary‑style atmosphere, letting the stark Norwegian landscape speak as loudly as any dialogue. A subtle, uneasy humor threads through the suspense, reflecting the characters’ attempts to rationalize the inexplicable while remaining aware of their own naiveté. The tone balances dread and wonder, inviting viewers to share the students’ growing sense that the myths of trolls may be more than folklore—that somewhere in the shadows of the trees, a secret world watches, waiting to be revealed.
What Happens in Trollhunter?
The complete story of Trollhunter, from the first scene to the last, in 831 words (about 4 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 4 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
In the heart of the Norwegian wilderness, a determined group of filmmakers from Volda University College, composed of Thomas (Glenn Erland Tosterud), Johanna (Johanna Mørck), and their camera-savvy friend Kalle (Tomas Alf Larsen), sets out to create a gripping documentary focused on Hans (Otto Jespersen), a suspected bear poacher. Their adventure kicks off at the site of a recently slain bear, where they interview local hunters puzzled by the unusual tracks left behind. The students also seek out Finn Haugen (Hans Morten Hansen), the head of the Norwegian Wildlife Board, but are met with disbelief when they propose that these tracks might have been manufactured.
Unfazed, Thomas, Johanna, and Kalle decide to follow Hans deep into the forest as twilight sets in. It is here they encounter a chilling scene: mysterious lights and strange roars coming from an unknown entity. Suddenly, a panicked Hans returns, exclaiming > “Troll!”—his voice filled with dread. Soon after, Thomas suffers an unseen attack, resulting in a mysterious bite. The trio escapes in Hans’s Land Rover, only to find their own vehicle in a state of chaos—its tires shredded. As they begin to comprehend the gravity of their situation, Hans unveils his shocking revelation: his hunts are not for bears, but rather for the far more terrifying trolls.
Initially skeptical, the trio proposes a bold idea: to join Hans on his troll hunt, filming their experiences along the way. Surprisingly, Hans agrees, laying down the ground rules. As Hans leads the students on their first real expedition, he instructs them to apply a repugnant disguise known as “troll stench,” crafted from the most foul substances derived from trolls. He then asks a profound question: do any of them hold faith in God or Jesus? This query stems from Hans’s belief that trolls can detect the blood of a Christian man, hinting at the peril they face from these legendary creatures.
Armed with a “flash gun” that emits powerful UV rays simulating sunlight, Hans successfully immobilizes a massive three-headed troll, referred to as a Tusseladd. He explains that his willingness to let the students join him stems from his frustration of working without sufficient payment and a desire to illuminate the truth regarding these cryptic beings. Meanwhile, Finn, an undercover agent for the Troll Security Service (TSS), appears with a team responsible for planting a bear carcass and creating counterfeit tracks, threatening to seize their footage.
Through revealing interviews, Hans articulates the division between his mission to eradicate trolls jeopardizing populated areas and Finn’s objective of preserving the mystery surrounding these creatures. He voices his concerns regarding a recent uptick in troll aggression, which seems to be driving them closer to human settlements. To unravel the mystery, he expresses the need for a blood sample.
On another hunt, the group assists Hans by using live goats as bait positioned on a bridge. Thanks to Hans’s expertise, they manage to acquire a blood sample from a Raglefant, a species of bridge troll. After submitting the sample to a veterinarian linked to the TSS, they learn that results will take several days. Their investigation leads them to a deserted mine, where they stumble upon a den of cave trolls (Dovregubbens). As they navigate the mine, they inadvertently invade the trolls’ secret refuge. Tensions soar when Kalle reveals his Christian beliefs, prompting the trolls to close in on them, drawn by his scent. In a frantic attempt to escape, the group makes a desperate sprint toward daylight, but in a tragic turn of events, Kalle meets a brutal fate at the hands of the trolls.
Hans finds himself in a precarious situation as he grapples with the arrival of Malica, a devout Muslim, as their new camerawoman, and fears how this unexpected addition will resonate with the troll community. Finn, unwavering in his pragmatism, insists the group head further north into troll territory to reclaim control. Their exploration yields unsettling evidence of a Jotnar—a colossal mountain troll standing an astonishing 61 meters tall. As the urgency of their predicament heightens, Thomas begins to fall ill, revealing that the bite he sustained days prior has taken a dark turn, with lab tests indicating rabies infection.
Hans’s desperation gives rise to a daring plan to take down the Jotnar, utilizing a rocket-like projectile that ultimately immobilizes the giant creature. Just before this pivotal moment, he instructs his companions to locate the nearest highway, while Finn and his TSS operatives prepare to confiscate the students’ footage as proof of their unauthorized entry into troll territory. Amidst the ensuing chaos, Thomas makes a break for safety, clutching the camera, only to collapse on the roadside as the tape abruptly cuts off.
The film’s conclusion leaves viewers uneasy, revealing that none of the students were ever heard from again, their fates wrapped in mystery. A news segment featuring Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg acknowledges the existence of trolls, yet this revelation goes largely unnoticed, amplifying the overall sense of anxiety and ambiguity woven throughout the narrative.
Trollhunter Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Filmmakers Set Out” to “Final Confrontation”. 9 events name a place, across 9 locations.
- 1
Filmmakers Set Out
A group of determined filmmakers from Volda University College, comprising Thomas, Johanna, and Kalle, embark on an ambitious documentary project. Their focus is on Hans, a suspected bear poacher, driving them into the Norwegian wilderness to uncover the truth.
Where:Norwegian Wilderness
- 2
Discovery of Bear Site
The filmmakers begin their journey at the site of a recently slain bear. They engage local hunters who express confusion over strange tracks, setting the tone for the mystery they aim to unravel.
Where:Bear Site
- 3
Seeking Expert Opinion
The trio approaches Finn Haugen, the head of the Norwegian Wildlife Board, to discuss the bear killing and the peculiar tracks. Unfortunately, they are met with skepticism and disbelief regarding their theories about the tracks being manufactured.
Where:Norwegian Wildlife Board Office
- 4
Following Hans into the Forest
Despite the disbelief, the group decides to follow Hans deeper into the forest at twilight. They encounter strange lights and eerie roars, sharply escalating the tension of their expedition.
When:Twilight Where:Deep Forest
- 5
Panic and Revelation
A frightened Hans returns, exclaiming 'Troll!' which sends shivers through the filmmakers. Their situation turns more dire as Thomas is attacked, leaving him with a mysterious bite as they escape in Hans's vehicle.
Where:Forest
- 6
Confession of a Troll Hunter
After a moment of chaos, Hans reveals a shocking truth: he hunts trolls, not bears. This revelation transforms their adventure into something far more dangerous and fascinating, leading the filmmakers to reconsider their goals.
- 7
Joining the Hunt
Intrigued by Hans's assertion, Thomas, Johanna, and Kalle propose to document his troll-hunting expedition. Surprisingly, Hans agrees but insists on strict adherence to his rules, which adds a new layer of excitement.
- 8
The Troll Stench Disguise
Hans instructs the filmmakers to don a foul disguise known as 'troll stench' in order to evade the trolls. He even provocatively asks about their faith, hinting that trolls might be drawn to the scent of a Christian.
- 9
First Encounter with a Troll
Utilizing a flash gun that emits UV rays simulating sunlight, Hans manages to immobilize a massive three-headed troll, the Tusseladd. This successful encounter heightens the stakes and validates their decision to join Hans.
Where:Troll Encounter Site
- 10
Conflicting Motives
During an interview, Hans expresses his mission to eradicate trolls threatening human habitats, contrasting with Finn's clandestine role in protecting the mystery of these creatures. Their conflicting purposes create an atmosphere of tension.
Show the other 5 events of Trollhunter Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Using Goats for Bait
The group assists Hans in a hunt using live goats as bait set up on a bridge. Their strategy pays off when they successfully acquire a blood sample from a Raglefant, a type of bridge troll.
Where:Bridge
- 12
Desperate Search for Answers
After submitting the troll blood sample for analysis, the students learn they must wait days for results. Their investigation leads them to an abandoned mine, where they stumble upon a den of cave trolls.
Where:Deserted Mine
- 13
Tragic Encounter
As they navigate the cave trolls' refuge, Kalle's admission of his Christian faith inadvertently draws the trolls to them. In a frantic escape, Kalle tragically loses his life to the trolls, leaving the group devastated.
Where:Cave Troll Den
- 14
The Arrival of Malica
The group's dynamic shifts upon the arrival of Malica, a new camerawoman. The unexpected presence raises concerns for Hans, who fears how her faith might affect their relationship with the trolls.
- 15
Final Confrontation
Hans orchestrates a daring plan to take down a colossal Jotnar, using a rocket projectile. As chaos ensues, Thomas's earlier bite worsens, and he collapses as the situation spirals out of control, leaving the outcome uncertain.
Who Are the Main Characters in Trollhunter?
6 characters, among them Thomas (Glenn Erland Tosterud), Johanna (Johanna Mørck) and Kalle (Tomas Alf Larsen): who each one is and the part they play in the story.
- T(
Thomas (Glenn Erland Tosterud)
Thomas is a spirited and determined filmmaker, keen on documenting the mysteries of the world around him. His initial skepticism turns into a thirst for adventure, leading him to confront unimaginable dangers. As the story unfolds, his resilience is tested, particularly when faced with the dire consequences of their investigative pursuit.
- 🎥 Filmmaker
- 🧗♂️ Adventurous
- 🥺 Courageous
- J(
Johanna (Johanna Mørck)
Johanna is an ambitious and resourceful member of the filmmaking group, balancing her curiosity about trolls with a sense of caution. Throughout the expedition, she demonstrates adaptability and a keen intuition. Her character often serves as a voice of reason amid the chaos, navigating the tensions that arise during their encounters.
- 🎬 Resourceful
- ⚖️ Balanced
- 🌟 Intuitive
- K(
Kalle (Tomas Alf Larsen)
Kalle is the energetic and enthusiastic member of the crew, whose passion aligns with the spirit of adventure. His character brings humor to tense situations, yet his beliefs ultimately lead to a tragic fate. His journey serves as a poignant reminder of the risks entailed in their pursuit of elusive truths.
- 😂 Humorous
- 🏃♂️ Energetic
- 😢 Tragic
- H(
Hans (Otto Jespersen)
Hans is a rugged and knowledgeable troll hunter, embodying the struggle between folklore and reality. His pragmatic approach contrasts with the academic innocence of the students, guiding them through a treacherous world. His character is marked by depth, showcasing both a desire to protect human life and to reveal the hidden truths of trolls.
- 🗡️ Protector
- 🌲 Experienced
- 🔍 Truth-seeker
- FH
Finn Haugen (Hans Morten Hansen)
Finn is an undercover agent for the Troll Security Service, representing the bureaucratic aspect of dealing with the supernatural. His pragmatic and sometimes ruthless demeanor contrasts starkly with Hans' emotional motivations. He embodies the tension between preserving mystery and confronting reality, creating an antagonist in the narrative.
- 👮♂️ Bureaucrat
- 🕵️♂️ Pragmatic
- ❓ Mysterious
- M
Malica
Malica is introduced as a new camerawoman, bringing a fresh dynamic to the group with her devout background. Her character highlights the intersection of different cultural beliefs within the team. The apprehension surrounding her addition serves to increase the tension linked to the trolls' reactions.
- 🎥 Creative
- 🕌 Religious
- 🔄 Adaptable
Where and When Is Trollhunter Set?
Trollhunter is set in Norwegian wilderness. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The film takes place in contemporary times, showcasing modern technology alongside ancient folklore. Events unfold within a plausible current-day context, reflecting on the integration of tradition and modernity. The mixture of contemporary hunting practices with age-old troll legends speaks to ongoing cultural narratives.
Where
Norwegian wilderness
The Norwegian wilderness is characterized by its breathtaking landscapes, dense forests, and remote areas that harbor numerous legends, including that of trolls. This setting provides an eerie backdrop, reflecting the vastness and mystery of nature. Known for its diverse wildlife and folklore, it creates an atmosphere both enchanting and frightening.
- 🌲 Wilderness
- 📍 Location
- 📹 Documentary
What Are the Themes of Trollhunter?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Folklore, Loss and Discovery.
-
01
Folklore
Folklore is a central theme, revolving around the mythical creatures of trolls that have long been part of Norwegian culture. The film explores how these legends influence the lives of characters and challenge their perceptions of reality. The characters' encounters with trolls force them to confront their beliefs and the nature of fear.
-
02
Loss
The theme of loss emerges powerfully, particularly with the tragic fate of Kalle. This theme reflects the high stakes of their adventure, emphasizing the cost of curiosity and the danger of venturing into the unknown. The film concludes with an unsettling ambiguity regarding the fates of the students, amplifying the emotional weight of their venture.
-
03
Discovery
Discovery is another significant theme as the group embarks on a quest to unveil the truth about trolls. Their journey is marked by scientific curiosity and the juxtaposition of myth and reality. The characters' determination to document their experiences speaks to the human desire to uncover hidden truths, regardless of the dangers involved.
What Kind of Film Is Trollhunter?
Tense in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Tense
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- High
- Ending
- Bleak
A tense and gritty found-footage thriller that follows student filmmakers into the dangerous Norwegian wilderness, generating constant anxiety as they uncover a deadly government secret involving real trolls.
- suspenseful
- paranoid
- anxious
- gritty
- atmospheric
- uneasy
- government conspiracy
- mythical creatures
- investigation
- survival horror
Content notes: graphic monster violence, character death, animal death, body horror, endangered children.
Quiz
How well do you remember Trollhunter? Test yourself on the story.
Where to Watch Trollhunter
Stream it on DistroTV and Hoopla, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
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DistroTV 
Hoopla 
Kanopy 
Magnolia Selects Amazon Channel 
Monsters and Nightmares Amazon Channel 
Philo 
Plex Channel 
Warriors and Gangsters Amazon Channel 
YouTube Free 
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