The ancient Incan world is fascinating not only because of where it existed within the cosmos, but also because, as a mountain community, the way its people communicated between villages is worth examining too. While there are plenty of scholarly publications on the subject, seeing that world brought to life through animation is incredibly rare. Now there’s Kayara, the latest entry to deliver not only a strong coming-of-age tale, but also a historical glimpse into this culture’s past.
My first exposure to this world came through The Mysterious Cities of Gold; I don’t count The Emperor’s New Groove, since it’s more sitcom-oriented than folklore-driven. While The Road to El Dorado is more about the arrival of the Spaniards, I still wanted to know more. Thanks to Shout! Studios’ commitment to bringing world animation to their growing catalogue of releases, I was pleased to check out Ainbo: Spirit of the Amazon (review), made by Peruvian animation studio Tunche Films, and their next work proves just as enlightening.
Written and directed by Cesar Zelada, alongside Dirk Hampel, this film may be the only work to date that shares the “warrior spirit” DNA of Mulan without becoming bogged down by traditional patriarchal tropes. The titular character, Kayara (Naomi Serrano), is determined to challenge the status quo. She is every bit as fast and strong as her male counterparts. In this world, the only means of communication between villages is through the Chasquis, elite runners who must navigate the lethal dangers of the jungle at high speeds. This group of messengers is male-dominated, and when Kayara’s father loses his agility to age, she aspires to take his place rather than settle for being a “trophy wife.”
Much of the tale follows her quest for acceptance. Much like Mulan, she must hide her gender and prove her worth to gain the Emperor’s favour as the next royal runner. The narrative feels grounded and honest. While Kayara has a pet viscacha, reminiscent of a Disney sidekick, the creature never tries to steal the show. He remains a silent companion, possessing just enough intelligence to aid the plot as it moves into the second act. The story also introduces tension within the royal court, as the Emperor’s advisor harbours a desire for the throne.
The childhood bond between Kayara and Paullu (Charles Gonzales), the heir, becomes a vital anchor against the deceit of the elder court. Without giving too much away, this older villain’s actions suggest how easily the world fell to invaders. Without his betrayal, perhaps the Incan Empire might have survived. His secret dealings with the Spaniards mirror the treachery behind Brutus’ plan to assassinate Caesar.
While the “hero’s journey” structure is familiar, this girl’s coming-of-age story offers something new. She finally sees the world for what it is, warts and all. Although what is preserved comes through choosing what works and what does not from the encroaching white man and his technology, knowing when to preserve one’s integrity matters far more.
As a result, this movie is more than a footnote about a bygone civilization; it is a story about how a lost world chooses to keep living. Balanced between drama and humour, the film avoids the usual Disney tropes to offer an introduction to an era I wish held even more mystique. Although not much mythology is revealed here, that’s because its role in everyday life is not the focus. It appears mainly during ritual and sacrifice, and neither is especially prominent in this tale. Instead, what’s offered are historical anecdotes that make this era feel alive. With solid performances from everyone, I was invested in the drama that eventually revealed itself.
And as for where all the gold went, that depends on how well people know this region’s history. When the Incan Emperor Atahualpa was captured by Francisco Pizarro, the Incas filled a room with gold for his ransom. After Pizarro executed Atahualpa anyway, legend says the Incan General Rumiñahui diverted the remaining treasure. The more enduring legend concerns Lake Titicaca. One story says the Incas threw tons of gold and silver into its waters to keep the Spaniards from seizing it. Without the treasure, they have less reason to invade, and for that turncoat, well, he loses his bargaining chip and gets his just reward. As for the rest, they may yet live happily ever after.
3½ Stars out of 5
Kayara Movie Trailer
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