“Ugo Bienvenu’s ‘Arco’ Offers a Vibrant Take on a Dystopian Future”

The animated film “Arco,” directed by French artist Ugo Bienvenu, presents a vivid exploration of a dystopian future through the eyes of its young protagonist. The story begins with Arco, a 10-year-old boy, who discovers a remarkable polychromatic cape that allows him to traverse space and time. His desire to return to the age of the dinosaurs leads to unexpected consequences as he crash-lands in the year 2075.

This future world is characterized by its reliance on technology, where robots carry out the majority of essential jobs, and extreme weather events have become commonplace. “Arco” combines elements reminiscent of Studio Ghibli films with the thematic depth of “Interstellar.” The film effectively balances child-friendly adventure with a sobering reflection on the environmental and social issues of the modern world.

In “Arco,” the protagonist encounters Iris, a lonely girl who discovers him unconscious in the woods. Determined to help him return home, Iris becomes Arco’s companion on this unforeseen journey. Along the way, they are pursued by a trio of eccentric conspiracy theorists, voiced by Will Ferrell, Andy Samberg, and Flea in the English dub, who believe that rainbows, such as the one created by Arco’s descent, will grant them access to future resources.

The film delves into the emotional landscape of isolation exacerbated by the overreliance on technology. Iris’s parents work abroad, leaving her and her baby brother to be raised by a robot that mimics their voices, portrayed by Natalie Portman and Mark Ruffalo. This poignant narrative element adds depth to the film, illustrating the impact of technology on personal relationships.

One notable sequence features a comical chase through virtual-reality classrooms, where the children explore past eras. This scene allows Arco to finally glimpse the dinosaurs he longs to see. The film adeptly navigates between celebrating technology’s wonders and lamenting the significant losses it incurs.

Ultimately, Arco and Iris seek refuge in a neglected library, highlighting the theme of forgotten spaces in a tech-dominated world. The library serves as a sanctuary, untouched and filled with stories waiting to be discovered.

“Arco” is rated PG and has a running time of 1 hour 22 minutes. The film is currently available in theaters, poised to attract audiences with its blend of enchanting visuals and meaningful storytelling.