Hilda and the Mountain King (2021) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Trolberg is a bustling city located near magical and mystical occurrences. It's known for troll sightings and fantastical events, where humans and magical creatures coexist in an uneasy but established proximity. The city serves as the primary human settlement in the story, representing the tension between the mundane world and the magical realm.

• trolberg
• setting
• city
• trolls
• magical creatures

The Stone Forest is a dense woodland where many unusual magical happenings occur. It serves as a refuge for magical creatures like trolls, acting as a boundary between the human world and the wild magical realm. This location is central to the story's exploration of where humans and trolls intersect.

• stone forest
• magical forest
• troll habitat
• woodland

The Mountain King's castle is now in ruins and serves as a crucial location that bears witness to the ancient conflicts between trolls and humans. It represents the historical tensions between the two species and the forgotten treaties and battles that shape the present-day conflict in the story.

• mountain king castle
• ruins
• troll history
• ancient conflict

The movie takes place in a contemporary setting, meaning it's set in modern times. However, it's a world where magical creatures like trolls coexist with humans, creating an ongoing tension between the two worlds amid rising troll activities and societal fears.

• contemporary
• modern
• fantasy world
• time period

Magic is a pivotal theme in the film, driving both conflict and resolution. The story features spells, changelings, and enchanted artifacts that highlight magic's complexity as both a blessing and a curse. Hilda's journey emphasizes understanding and harnessing magic responsibly, reflecting deeper connections between characters and the magical realm.

• magic
• spells
• changelings
• enchanted artifacts
• magical elements

The connection theme illustrates relationships between humans and trolls throughout the film. Through shared experiences and crises, barriers are broken down, leading to greater understanding and empathy. The film celebrates unity, showing how mutual respect and connection can lead to harmonious coexistence between species.

• connection
• unity
• coexistence
• human-troll relationships
• empathy

Conflict arises from misunderstandings and fear between the humans of Trolberg and the trolls. The movie explores how stereotypes and historical animosity fuel enmity between the two groups. Hilda's efforts to mediate highlight the need for dialogue and peace to overcome destructive cycles of violence and fear.

• conflict
• prejudice
• fear
• stereotypes
• troll-human tension
• peace

Hilda is the adventurous and courageous main character who is magically transformed into a troll during her quest. Her determination to reclaim her humanity showcases her resilience and adaptability. She navigates the challenges of her new form while uncovering deeper truths about herself and the troll world.

• hilda
• main character
• troll transformation
• bravery
• adventure

Baba, whose real name is Agnes Peacock, is a wise and supportive character who aids Hilda's family during their search for Hilda. Her understanding of trolls provides crucial insight and guidance throughout the crisis. Her transformation back into a troll at the film's end symbolizes the blurred lines between humanity and troll-hood.

• baba
• agnes peacock
• wise character
• troll guide
• support

Trylla is Hilda's troll mother and embodies the complexities of parental love and protective instincts. Her character explores themes of acceptance, belonging, and breaking free from preconceived notions about identity. Despite her initial fear during Hilda's transformation, she ultimately seeks to aid her daughter.

• trylla
• troll mother
• parental love
• acceptance
• belonging
• identity

Trundle, whose real name is Dino Kelly, is a giant troll who represents the misunderstood nature of trolls in the story. Despite his imposing size, he has a kinder nature. His quest to regain his vision drives much of Hilda's journey, and his partnership with Hilda brings depth to the troll narrative by showing that not all trolls are antagonistic.

• trundle
• dino kelly
• giant troll
• misunderstood
• vision quest
• friendly troll

Frida is a passionate and resourceful character who stands up for her beliefs, particularly regarding trolls. Her willingness to take risks reflects her commitment to friendship and justice. She represents the importance of activism and the power of youth in sparking change within society.

• frida
• activist
• friend
• justice
• youth activism
• beliefs