The animated film was inspired by Troll dolls — the adorably ugly, colorful-haired toys that became wildly popular in the 1960s and then again in the 1990s. Viewers will follow two Trolls in particular, Princess Poppy (voiced by Kendrick) and Branch (voiced by Timberlake), on what the studio describes as an epic and “hair-raising” adventure. The twosome will find their way far from the familiar, face new challenges, and of course, sing frequently.
As Branch, Timberlake will voice a “hilariously hardcore survivalist,” but there will be more to him than his tough exterior (and wild hair). His character seems like an interesting contrast to Kendrick’s Princess Poppy. Although plot details are scarce, it sounds like the duo may form a Troll odd couple, with each revealing their true character along the way.
Trolls will unite Timberlake’s talent for both acting and singing. In addition to the many Grammy Awards he’s accumulated over the years, he has starred in a variety of films, including animated flicks such as Shrek the Third and Yogi the Bear. Most recently, he appeared in 2013’s Inside Llewyn Davis, a French-American comedy-drama. Now a father, it’s fitting that Timberlake would take on a role in a movie that appeals to kids.
The movie will reunite key players from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek Forever After: director Mike Mitchell, co-director Walt Dohrn, and producer Gina Shay. Mitchell also helmed Sky High and Surviving Christmas.
Trolls, which will be distributed by 20th Century Fox, will hit theaters on Nov. 4, 2016.
