The Ashlad and the Hungry Troll
The Ashlad and the Hungry Troll

Movie spotlight

The Ashlad and the Hungry Troll

1967
Movie
12 min
Norwegian

An exuberant story about Askeladden, the hero of Norwegian traditional fairy tales, outwitting the good-natured troll.

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Director: Rune HassleGenres: Family, Fantasy, Folk Tale

Plot Summary

A young, kind-hearted ashlad named Espen lives a humble life with his two selfish and greedy brothers. When they set out to find a princess to marry, Espen follows, encountering a hungry troll who offers him a magical treasure in exchange for a meal. Espen's cleverness and kindness help him overcome obstacles and ultimately win the princess's hand, proving that true worth comes from character, not riches.

Critical Reception

The Ashlad and the Hungry Troll is a beloved Norwegian folk tale adaptation that has been enjoyed by families for generations. While not a critical darling in the traditional sense, it is cherished for its faithful adaptation of traditional storytelling and its enduring moral lessons. Audiences appreciate its charm and accessibility, making it a staple in children's programming in Norway.

What Reviewers Say

  • A charming and faithful adaptation of a classic Norwegian folk tale.

  • Praised for its simple yet effective storytelling and positive moral messages.

  • A nostalgic and heartwarming film for family viewing.

Google audience: Google user reviews are not widely available for this film, but it is generally regarded fondly within Norway as a classic children's film.

Fun Fact

This film is based on the well-known Norwegian fairy tale character Espen Askeladd, who is a common archetype in Norwegian folklore, often depicted as the youngest of three brothers who succeeds through wit and kindness.

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