Why Was Trolls World Tour a Good Racism Allegory?
Trolls World Tour, the sequel to the 2016 animated hit Trolls, stands out not just as a fun musical adventure but also as a powerful allegory for diversity, inclusion, and the pitfalls of cultural hegemony. The film uses its colorful characters and upbeat music to deliver a nuanced message about embracing differences, valuing unique histories, and overcoming biases—topics that resonate strongly with contemporary discussions about racism and cultural equality.
The Plot as a Framework for Diversity
The story revolves around Queen Poppy discovering the history of the Trolls’ musical heritage. Long ago, Trolls were united by six musical strings representing Pop, Rock, Classical, Country, Funk, and Techno genres. However, the tribes split, creating distinct cultures. When Queen Barb of the Rock Trolls tries to dominate all other musical tribes by forcing them into a single “rock-only” culture, the narrative unfolds as a metaphor for cultural imperialism and the erasure of minority traditions.
Poppy’s initial naïve belief that “everyone will love Pop music” mirrors unconscious bias and the assumption that one’s culture or perspective is superior. As the story progresses, she learns that the Pop tribe has historically marginalized other music genres, showcasing how dominant cultures can suppress others while assuming goodwill.
Why It Works as a Racism Allegory
Representation of Cultural Differences
Each Troll tribe’s music and lifestyle represent a distinct culture, emphasizing the beauty and richness of diversity. This reflects real-world racial and cultural identities, where differences should be celebrated rather than homogenized.
Confronting Historical Injustice
The Pop tribe’s realization that they weren’t always inclusive addresses the uncomfortable truth that dominant cultures have often perpetuated historical injustices, whether knowingly or not. This aligns with ongoing efforts to re-examine history through a more inclusive lens.
Unity Through Respect
By the end, the Trolls unite not by becoming the same but by appreciating each other’s uniqueness. This promotes the idea of unity in diversity, a central tenet in combating racism.
Lessons on Inclusion and Empathy
The movie emphasizes the importance of listening and learning about others’ perspectives before attempting to impose one’s values. For children, it provides an accessible way to understand that different doesn’t mean wrong—it means special and worth protecting.
Insights for Adults and Broader Themes
While the movie is targeted at children, its themes of unconscious bias, cultural preservation, and the dangers of forced conformity resonate with adult audiences. It subtly critiques the “melting pot” approach to diversity, advocating instead for a “mosaic” where every culture retains its identity while contributing to the larger whole.
Comparison Chart: Trolls World Tour vs. Other Diversity-Themed Films
| Feature | Trolls World Tour | Zootopia | Coco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Theme | Unity through cultural diversity | Bias and prejudice | Celebrating cultural heritage |
| Target Audience | Children and families | Children and families | Children and families |
| Core Message | Respect and value differences | Overcoming stereotypes | Importance of remembering one’s roots |
| Approach | Music-based allegory | Mystery-solving, societal metaphor | Personal journey with cultural ties |
| Critique of Bias | Historical injustice, unconscious bias | Institutional bias, fear of others | Neglect of cultural traditions |
Conclusion
Trolls World Tour serves as an excellent racism allegory by presenting a colorful and digestible narrative about diversity, inclusion, and the need to confront historical biases. Its emphasis on unity through respect, rather than forced sameness, offers valuable lessons for audiences of all ages. Whether through its vibrant characters, engaging plot, or meaningful themes, the movie leaves a lasting impression on the importance of celebrating differences.
