Disc Reviews

The Mysterious Cities Of Gold Series 2 Review

4th Feb 2014

30 years later and finally the long mooted sequel series to the 1980’s cult classic series is here. The original TMCOG launched as a co-production from Europe entertained children back in 1982 – charting the escapades of monastery raised Esteban and his eventual friends Tia and Tao. The three children formed a strong friendship as they sought out one ancient ruin to after another, uncovering magnificent landmarks, various new modes of transport (including their now iconic Golden Condor) and having to battle various foes along the way. Yes it was a long adventure that melded science fiction, mystery and the ancient worlds together into one long adventure. But by the end of the series it was clear that they had only found one of seven cities of gold.

Series Two charts the road to the second city. But things must re-start a little and back to Spain we go where our heroes (including the heroic – yet treasure seeking Mendoza and his cohorts regroup) are finding their place in the world. After a brief dalliance with perhaps wanting to be adopted by a new family, Esteban realises he already has a family in his friends and the group decide to set out looking for the next city of gold located all the way across the continents in China.

Of course, along the way they encounter new character either eager to help, or get in their way; new marvellous inventions, airships, mountains, ruins, traps, and more mysterious to be solved.

This series is only 26 episodes compared to the original shows 39, but there is also less repetition along the way. Each episode finds the group managing to move on a bit towards their goal. The inventiveness onscreen is to be applauded – especially combining new age science fiction with that of the era: The Alchemist’s airship and varied inventions being some of the stand out.

The animation of the show itself is also to be applauded. Though it utilises some modern techniques, it is clearly paying homage to the original series design and look. And as that look has dated well, the show looks better than ever.

The voice acting may take old fans a couple of episodes to get used to – especially as Esteban, Tao and Mendoza in particular sound very different from their 1980’s counterparts. Tao seems to have aged backwards and now has quite a high pitch, and Mendoza has lost a lot of his commanding boom. A shame that more suitable voices to match could not be sourced, but it is something you ultimately accept as the show goes on.

Further comparison to the original show to be rewarded is that fact that the presentation of each episode also mimics the original. The opening song has been re-scored and recorded buy a new artist. The show then is given a brief recap of what has happened before. After the main cartoon there is then a sneek peek at the following episode which is then followed by a short live action documentary on an aspect of ancient civilisation and global culture before credits roll. It’s a thoughtful and rewarding idea to remain so true to the original series format and is likely to keep hardcore fans very happy.

There are no extras on this set sadly, but we are reminded at the end of the series that the next is clearly on the way!