The film begins in 16th-century Spain, where two swindlers named Tulio (voiced by Kevin Kline) and Miguel (voiced by Kenneth Branagh) win a map to the legendary city of El Dorado in a game of dice. Eager to escape their mundane lives, they set sail for the New World in search of gold and adventure.
Upon arriving in the New World, Tulio and Miguel find themselves stranded on a remote island after their ship sinks in a storm. They eventually discover a hidden passage that leads them to the fabled city of El Dorado, a magnificent metropolis filled with gold and treasure.
Unbeknownst to the inhabitants of El Dorado, the high priest Tzekel-Kan (voiced by Armand Assante) has been manipulating them with false prophecies in order to maintain his power. When Tulio and Miguel arrive, they are mistaken for gods by the people of El Dorado, who believe that they have been sent to fulfill the prophecy of the “Great Stone.”
Tulio and Miguel, realizing the opportunity for wealth and adventure, decide to play along with the deception. With the help of a local thief named Chel (voiced by Rosie Perez), they exploit the people’s belief in their divinity to live like kings and enjoy the city’s riches.
However, their charade is soon threatened when Tzekel-Kan becomes suspicious of their true identities and plots to expose them as frauds. Tulio and Miguel must navigate the treacherous politics of El Dorado and outsmart Tzekel-Kan in order to protect themselves and their newfound wealth.
As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, Tulio and Miguel must confront their own greed and selfishness. They come to realize that true friendship and happiness cannot be bought with gold, and that their actions have consequences for the people of El Dorado.
In a climactic showdown, Tulio and Miguel confront Tzekel-Kan and reveal the truth about their origins. With the help of Chel and the people of El Dorado, they thwart Tzekel-Kan’s plans and save the city from destruction.
In the end, Tulio and Miguel choose to return to Spain with Chel, leaving behind the riches of El Dorado in favor of a simpler life. They bid farewell to their newfound friends and set sail for home, content in the knowledge that they have found true wealth in each other’s company.
“The Road to El Dorado” is a thrilling and humorous adventure that celebrates the power of friendship, courage, and redemption. With its colorful animation, memorable characters, and catchy musical numbers, the film captivates audiences of all ages with its timeless tale of discovery and self-discovery.