This Overlooked Dreamworks Gem Outshines Even Disney's Finest Animated Movies

When considering beloved animated films, many immediately think of Disney. However, it would be a mistake to overlook Dreamworks, specifically The Road To El Dorado. The debate regarding the prominence of Dreamworks' 2000 hit compared to Disney's The Emperor's New Groove has deeply divided fans. In truth, both films warrant significant recognition, but now is the ideal time to shine a light on The Road To El Dorado.

It is astonishing that Eric Bergeron and Don Paul, in their directorial debuts, managed to create such a remarkable Dreamworks masterpiece. With an exceptional soundtrack featuring renowned artists like Elton John and Hans Zimmer, this is far from your average animated film. While it initially struggled at the box office, the film has gained considerable attention in recent times, proving that its past failures are now a thing of the past.

What Is The Road To El Dorado About?

Miguel and Tulio, known for being Spain's most infamous and ineffective con artists, stumble upon a map to the ancient city of El Dorado. Despite the risks involved in cheating, they manage to escape the city guards by hiding on a boat. However, their luck takes a turn for the worse when they realize the boat belongs to Cortes, a Spanish conquistador preparing to embark on a voyage to the New World. In order to avoid being imprisoned at sea, Miguel and Tulio devise a plan to escape, accompanied by a loyal horse named Altivo. Eventually, they find themselves washed up on an enigmatic shore.

Remarkably, the map they won turns out to be genuine and leads them to discover structures that guide them towards El Dorado. Just when it seems like their journey has reached a dead end, the duo unexpectedly encounters Chel, a woman from the legendary city. Caught by a group of guards, Miguel and Tulio are brought back to El Dorado. Meanwhile, the inhabitants of the city, convinced that the men are divine beings in human form, view them as gods. However, Chel soon uncovers their deceitful nature. Despite this, Miguel and Tulio agree to bring her along when they eventually depart the city, carrying with them a great fortune in gold.

The men defy the city's customs during a ritual sacrifice, saving the victim and claiming to be benevolent gods. However, Cortes and his men arrive on the same shore and embark on their journey to El Dorado. Miguel and Tulio spend time with the people of El Dorado - Tulio forms a connection with Chel to plot their escape, while Miguel learns their way of life. The treacherous priest Tzekel-Kan questions the men's godlike status and manipulates them into a brutal game, which Miguel and Tulio win with the help of an animal companion.

During the game, Miguel gets injured and bleeds, confirming Tzekel-Kan's suspicions. This prompts the priest to initiate his own sinister plan. Despite a party being thrown in their honor, Miguel and Tulio's differences lead to an argument. At that moment, Tzekel-Kan launches an attack with a massive jaguar. However, the two men manage to defeat the jaguar and send Tzekel-Kan and himself into the sacrificial whirlpool of El Dorado. Tzekel-Kan finds himself in the jungle, unknowingly at the feet of Cortes. Unaware of the consequences, the evil priest guides Cortes towards El Dorado.

Did Elton John Really Do All The Music?

Elton John's contribution to the soundtrack of this film is truly surprising for those who haven't seen it. Despite Hanz Zimmer's involvement in creating the instrumental score, Elton John's dedication shines through. Collaborating with Tim Rice on most of the soundtrack, they managed to capture pure magic, making it one of Dreamworks' best soundtracks to date. Every song is memorable, including the one he didn't perform, "It's Tough To Be A God," for which he still worked on the music.

While there are several standout tracks in the movie, anyone who watches it will likely find themselves humming along to at least one of the tunes. You don't have to be an Elton John fan to appreciate the soundtrack; even someone unaware of his involvement would enjoy the music just as much. It's not your typical pop music but a soundtrack that perfectly complements the tale of adventure, friendship, and danger.

How Does The Road To El Dorado End?

Heading towards El Dorado, Cortes' imminent arrival foreshadowed impending disaster. Within the city, the two friends make individual choices about their futures - Tulio decides to escape with Chel on a large boat, while Miguel opts to remain with his newfound love. As Tulio prepares to flee with his cherished gold, they become aware of Cortes' advancing forces. Understanding the dire consequences of his arrival, Tulio makes a selfless decision.

He proposes that their boat sail straight into the city's entrance, effectively shielding themselves from the violence that Cortes and his men are likely to unleash. Although this course of action would result in considerable loss of his gold, Tulio prioritizes the well-being of the people of El Dorado, which is of utmost importance to Miguel. With some assistance and a stroke of luck, the plan proves successful, although Miguel joins Tulio in leaving the city in order to help unfurl the sails completely. Together, with Chel and Altivo, they cause the entrance to collapse, permanently concealing the road to El Dorado.

Tzekel-Kan's treacherous efforts have been foiled, leading to a fate more dreadful than death as Cortes decides to imprison the priest. With the danger averted, Miguel and Tulio contemplate their journey in El Dorado, particularly the unfortunate loss of their gold. However, they eventually come to the realization that they haven't lost everything. The Road To El Dorado culminates with the group of friends embarking on a new path, eager to embrace a life brimming with fresh escapades.