First Roles: "Troll" featuring Julia Louis-Dreyfus & Brad Hall

Portland Movie Club member Kevin W. has taught a Movie Madness University class on the 1986 fantasy comedy "Troll." And as it's the big screen debut of comedy icon Jula Louis-Drefuys--and her then-boyfriend, now-husband Brad Hall (both SNL alums at the time)--he will be helping lead the discussion at the next First Roles discussion series!

(Also: does it count that this movie is also the first big-screen appearance of a character named Harry Potter?)

Movie spotlight: "Troll"

Directed by John Carl Buechler, Troll is a dark fantasy comedy that follows the Potter family as they move into a quirky San Francisco apartment building. When their young daughter Wendy begins acting strangely, her brother Harry Jr. uncovers a hidden magical realm threatening to overtake the building. As fairy tale creatures emerge and reality begins to warp, Harry Jr. must navigate a surreal battle between human and mystical forces.

The film blends whimsical fantasy with eerie undertones, creating a unique atmosphere that’s both playful and unsettling. It’s the first installment in the Troll film series and has gained a cult following for its imaginative world-building and offbeat charm.

Notably, Troll marks the big-screen debut of Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Brad Hall, who appear as eccentric tenants caught in the magical chaos.

Click here for streaming options, and available to rent on DVD (along with the infamous 1990 film "Troll 2") from Movie Madness.

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