Film #076 - Kronk’s New Groove (2005)
Viewed March 17, 2006
The debate rages on as to whether Disney devalues its films by releasing straight-to-video sequels like The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000) and Cinderella II: Dreams Come True (2002). Often, these films lack the spark that made the original so beloved. There are usually several key cast memebrs missing, as well. Still, several good sequels have surfaced, including Alladin and the King of Thieves (1995) and The Lion King 1½ (2004). The key seems to be that a strong story or idea be behind the film and that as many of the original creative team as possible return. Such is the case with the two aforementioned films and, to a degree, such is true of Kronk’s New Groove, the straight-to-video sequel to The Emperor’s New Groove (2000).
First of all, it is impressive how many members of the original cast they were able to secure. (While none are really big stars, one would still think some wouldn’t be available.) Patrick Warburton (Kronk), Eartha Kitt (sorceress Yzma), David Spade (Emperor Kuzco), John Goodman (Pacha) and Wendie Malick (Chicha) all return. They all know their characters well, so fall back into place effortlessly.
The new additions to the cast also acquit themselves well. Tracey Ullman (as Kronk’s love iterest Ms. Birdwell), John Mahoney (as Kronk’s father Papi) and John Fiedler (as Kronk’s friend Rudy) all seem at ease with the established cast and fit in seamlessly.
The biggest problem with Kronk’s New Groove is the simplicity of its premise. The notion of a son coming to outgrow the need for his father’s approval and the father coming to accept his son for who he is can hardly be called original. The episodic nature of the plot also keeps things from jelling as well as it might otherwise have done.
But for the most part, this problem is minimized by the sharp, funny script. There are plenty of the pop culture references that have become synonomous with modern animated films, but also snappy dialogue and decent gags that keep the film moving along at a brisk pace. Musical numbers are well spaced out and do not seem to go on too long. While not exactly memorable, the songs work well enough and are used to full advantage.
Ultimately, Kronk’s New Groove won’t help answer the eternal debate over Disney’s sequels. While it is entertaining enough, it still comes off as quite formulaic and fails the Pixar test of “a story that needs to be told”. But it’s quite good for younger audiences and fans of the original film will probably enjoy seeing the characters again. For others, there’s not a lot to recommend.