I was entranced by *Arco* from its initial sequences. Birds soar towards towers that ascend into the clouds, supporting platforms adorned with greenery and wind turbines. The image is idealistic yet slightly foreboding. Why has humanity ascended to the sky? What remains below? The answer is the ecological disaster we have wrought.
This conflict between beauty and grim realities propels *Arco*, as French director Ugo Bienvenu merges an enchanting tale of friendship with a stark examination of climate change. It’s an extraordinary sci-fi odyssey, conveyed through breathtaking animation.
**What is *Arco* about?**
In *Arco*, residents on the platforms can traverse time using vibrant cloaks and light-reflecting crystals, conjuring rainstorms and rainbows. Children under 12 are barred from using this technology, which frustrates 10-year-old Arco (voiced by Juliano Valdi in English). He pilfers his sister’s cloak and journeys to 2075, where he becomes stranded. Fortunately, he befriends Iris (voiced by Romy Fay), who assists him in returning to his own time.
**Arco stands as another powerful animated feature addressing climate change.**
While Arco’s future is picturesque, fueled by renewable energy and nature, Iris’ realm is more concerning and recognizable. Iris resides in a suburb akin to ours, albeit with some distinctions. Her robotic guardian Mikki (voiced by Natalie Portman and Mark Ruffalo) and the community’s robotic laborers indicate technological progress. Her parents utilize holograms to communicate while working.
The most significant distinction is the protective bubbles surrounding homes during frequent severe weather events. Intense storms threaten the community, and children discuss preparing for wildfires. This society coexists with the repercussions of climate change but does not endeavor to mitigate them for future generations.
Arco understands that climate change drove his ancestors above the clouds. Through his perspective, Iris’ world features elements that signal ecological decline, such as automobiles and surplus grocery stores, in contrast to his family’s sustainable practices.
Bienvenu’s message about climate change is not delivered with a heavy hand. The intricacies of world-building cultivate an increasing sense of unease, enhancing the sweetness of Iris and Arco’s relationship. They represent hope in a deteriorating environment.
*Arco*’s exploration of climate change echoes the films *Flow* and *The Wild Robot* set to release in 2024. Like *Arco*, they depict realities shaped by ecological disasters, concentrating on innocents like animals and young characters like Iris and Arco who weather these tempests. Together with *Flow* and *The Wild Robot*, *Arco* demonstrates animation’s capability to communicate the realities of climate change to all demographics.
**Arco is visually breathtaking.**
*Arco*’s animation is extraordinary. Bienvenu, a comic book artist, brings his 2D aesthetic to the cinematic realm, reminiscent of Jean Giraud (Mœbius) and Studio Ghibli features.
Beyond Arco’s future rainbows and skyward towers, Bienvenu uncovers marvels in 2075. The forests in Iris’ town are vibrant, and her school provides an escape. Classrooms metamorphose into galaxies and submerged vistas, highlighting animation talent and elevating Iris and Arco’s narrative.
A standout is the enigmatic trio (voiced by Will Ferrell, Andy Samberg, and Flea) pursuing Arco. Their colorful outfits, bowl haircuts, and rainbow spectacles create amusing, visually unique scenes.
In a landscape dominated by 3D animation, *Arco*’s visuals showcase the lasting appeal of 2D artistry and the commitment of French filmmakers. If you appreciate animation, make sure to experience it.
*Arco* is currently showing in theaters.