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The 2000s was not a strong time for Disney animation. They struggled to find their place amid the rise of Pixar and Dreamworks and it led them down some strange paths. Most were not good. This is one of the few exceptions.
This is a movie Disney never would have made any other time, but they were being a bit experimental at the time and it gave us this wacky, hilarious film.
Welcome to Disney Pus Watch or Skip, our series where we review underappreciated films on Disney Plus to help you find new things to watch on the streaming service. Today we are looking at the Disney animated film The Emperor's New Groove.
Originally proposed as a more traditional Disney musical, when that was scrapped the same vague plot was salvaged into the film we have today, a fast-paced comedy, unlike anything Disney has made before or since.
This is one of few films from its era that has not become woefully outdated (looking at you Chicken Little).
The basic story is that self-centered Emperor Kuzco (voiced by David Spade) was turned into a llama by his recently fired advisor Yzma (brilliantly voiced by Eartha Kitt) and has to reclaim his kingdom.
One of this film's strongest elements is its amazing characters, from Yzma, one of the most underrated Disney villains of all time, to the hilarious side characters. Kronk (voiced by Patrick Warburton) steals every scene he is in with his lovable but less than smart sidekick to Yzma. John Goodman's Pancha provides the emotional center of the film, without providing any less laughs. There isn't a dull character in the entire film, as even characters with limited screen time make a memorable impression.
You watch this and have a hard time believing it was made by Disney. It frequently breaks the fourth wall. Its characters are self-aware of what caricatures they are. The recurring jokes are simple yet hilarious. And it all works.
This movie may also be one of the most quotable Disney films of all time.
Given the production troubles this film went through it is amazing it came out as well as it did. It was almost entirely rewritten, most of the songs were cut, notably, Yzma's song Snuff Out the Light, and the entire original concept was scrapped. Yet the final product became something unique and wonderful in the Disney vault.
The film is great when you just want to sit back and relax with a simple comedy. Disney essentially allowed the film to exist as what it was, an insane family comedy with basically no boundaries.
If you enjoy this film you might also want to check out its sequel Kronk's New Groove, which while not as strong is still worth a watch and its stellar television continuation Emperor's New School, both of which available now on Disney Plus.
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