With mostly sequels in cinemas for children this winter, it’s nice to see something original for a change.

Although Disney is as big a fan of sequels or remakes as any studio, its animated “The Emperor’s New Groove” is a breath of fresh air, with origins not as readily apparent as many Disney features.

The title suggests a connection to the old story “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” While the film also is about the comeuppance and transformation of a vain ruler, the resemblance stops there. Instead, it pulls together the themes from several old folk tales.

Set in a mythical Latin American mountain kingdom, the film follows the misadventures of an egocentric young emperor named Kuzco, who is transformed into a llama by his scheming adviser, Yzma.

Kuzco finds himself stranded in the jungle, and his only way back is with the aid of the good-hearted peasant Pacha. The two race to return Kuzco to the throne before Yzma and her muscle-bound consort, Kronk, find them and finish off the emperor.

In the end, learning from Pacha’s example, Kuzco becomes a more benevolent leader to his people. But the message is presented less heavy-handedly than in most recent offerings from the Mouse.

The strong vocal cast (most adults will recognize the stars instantly) for the film is headed by David Spade as Kuzco, John Goodman as Pacha, Eartha Kitt as Yzma and Patrick Warburton (Puddy on “Seinfeld”) as Kronk.

“The Emperor’s New Groove” is also the first Disney film since probably “Aladdin” to capture the antic feel of vintage Looney Tunes cartoons, which many of the baby boomer parents in the audience will appreciate.

Even without an established back story, the film appealed to my junior critic. The nice thing about zany slapstick is that is doesn’t require any translation or analysis. She bought into the characters fully, and especially liked it when the villainous Yzma took flight and underwent her own transformation.

Will “The Emperor’s New Groove” take its place among the Disney classics, and spawn its own sequels? No. But it can stand proudly on its own and earn its own generation of fans. That’s not a bad thing, is it?

Dale McGarrigle is a veteran Style writer specializing in entertainment and pop culture. His 5-year-old daughter, Samantha, may not understand Mayan civilization, but she knows what she likes. Just ask her.