In the animated film “Arco” by Ugo Bienvenu, viewers are presented with a dual vision of the future. The storyline is split between two time periods, following a 10-year-old boy’s accidental journey from the future of 2932 to the near future of 2075. In the distant future, the world is devastated by climate disasters and rising sea levels, rendering it almost uninhabitable despite its visual beauty portrayed through Bienvenu’s detailed 2D art style.
The boy’s arrival in 2075 reveals a world that is more familiar yet still under threat. A massive forest fire looms on the outskirts of the village he lands in, with the locals avoiding confronting the impending crisis. According to Bienvenu and co-producer Natalie Portman, these contrasting futures symbolize potential paths that humanity may take.
Bienvenu expressed his intention to inspire the new generation through “Arco,” emphasizing the importance of ideas and creativity in shaping a better future. Portman echoed this sentiment, highlighting the film’s nuanced portrayal of both dark and optimistic futures. She emphasized the unpredictability of what lies ahead and the need to embrace imagination and innovation to drive positive change.
Despite its success at the European Film Awards and Academy Award nomination for best animated feature, Bienvenu emphasized that the film’s purpose was not solely about achieving victory. He emphasized the idea that sometimes losing can lead to ultimate triumph, citing an ancient Greek or Roman saying, “From wrong comes the right,” as a guiding principle for “Arco.”