Probably among Disney's most overlooked animated films or films in general

Rating: 7/10 (11 September 2018)

The decade after the Renaissance era was one of peaks and valleys to say the least. Disney was transitioning from Broadway-style adaptations of classic fables, myths, and fairytales toward appealing to modern sensibilities. Sometimes they paid off (Lilo & Stitch, Meet the Robinsons and Bolt), sometimes they didn't (Chicken Little). Thankfully, The Emperor's New Groove breaks the Disney mold in the sense that it doesn't retain certain tropes of its predecessors.
The best word to describe the film is vaudevillian. There's emphasis on Looney Tunes/Tom & Jerry/Pink Panther-esque slapstick, yet the writers know when to keep a good heart.
Kuzco is Daffy Duck if he were a teenager: narcissistic, but genuinely has moments when he realizes the repercussions of his attitude. He warms up to Pacha, who's down-to-earth nature helps to keep them grounded without driving each other insane.
Yzma and Kronk are a polar opposite villain duo. As opposed to Kronk not always being the brightest bulb in the lamp, yet has a certain likability to him, Yzma is probably one of Disney's most comedic villains with her psychotic personality bouncing off the walls.
My sole major criticism for the film is that it's under a tight 76 minute runtime, therefore wishing the viewer could ask for more. Some may argue that the film plays the comedy straight and that's it. While I somewhat agree, I still admire and credit Disney for taking a stab at a form of storytelling outside of the genre they usually shine in, even if it wasn't quite as financially rewarding as one would've hoped.
All in all, Emperor's New Groove is a Disney gem worth checking out!