Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Bold princess fights foes in funny quest; some language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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The Barbarian and the Troll
What's the Story?
Brendar the "feared and revered" Barbarian and Evan the Troll go on an epic quest through the medieval land of Gothmoria. Brendar has an "absurdly complex backstory," involving getting kicked out of the Royal Order of Warrior Princess for disobeying the queen's orders (namely: to not do any actual fighting). She's searching for the demon Alvin, who killed her mother and kidnapped her brother. Her fate intertwines with Evan's, a troll who is hopelessly bad at guarding his bridge and who wants to follow his heart and become a musician. The unlikely duo teams up because Evan is looking for material to write songs about, and he convinces Brendar that he can write songs to spread her legend if he can accompany her on her quest. On their epic journey, Brendar expertly fights all sorts of quirky magical foes, and Evan sings about their adventures. Can Evan break down Brendar's tough exterior, and will Brendar rescue her brother from the evil demon?
Is It Any Good?
This charming series will enchant kids and grown-ups alike with its fantasy world, whimsical characters, and constant laughs. All of the characters are puppets, and while it's not produced by the Henson Company, it evokes the old-school Muppets in the best possible way. The creatures Brendar encounters truly seem magical, and the puppeteers' performances bring them to slightly scary (but mostly funny) life. Kids will love the slapstick humor (a lot of which comes from cartoonish violence) and silly characters, and older kids will appreciate the wordplay and double meanings.
Adults will guffaw at the grown-up aimed humor, like a tavern being named "The Queen's Goiter" or the troll saying he has "99 problems but a bridge ain't one." Brendar is a great strong female lead: self-confident (to a fault), tough as nails, and independent (though her midriff-bearing outfit doesn't seem necessary). There's more meanness and violence than some parents may prefer, but Brendar seems like she may become a reformed, softened barbarian under Evan's influence as the series continues. The Barbarian and the Troll is fantastic viewing for families with older kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Brendar and Evan's bravery. How do they show courage in different ways?
How is Brendar different than other girl characters on TV shows you like? How is she the same?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 2, 2021
- Cast : Spencer Grammer , Drew Massey , Colleen Smith , Gina Yashere
- Network : Nickelodeon
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Puppets
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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