In Ugo Bienvenu’s animated film “Arco,” a unique depiction of the future unfolds with a dual timeline narrative. The story follows a young boy accidentally traveling back from the distant future of 2932 to the near future of 2075, showcasing contrasting worlds shaped by environmental crises and societal challenges.
The futuristic setting of 2932 portrays a world devastated by climate disasters and rising sea levels, rendering it nearly uninhabitable yet visually striking due to Bienvenu’s detailed 2D animation style. In contrast, the 2075 timeline presents a more familiar yet precarious scenario, with a looming forest fire threatening the village where the protagonist lands, highlighting the community’s avoidance of impending environmental shifts.
According to Bienvenu and co-producer Natalie Portman, the film’s juxtaposition of these two futures serves as a reflection of our own potential destinies. Portman emphasizes the film’s nuanced approach to optimism and pessimism, suggesting that fixed ideas about the future can hinder proactive change. Instead, embracing creativity and human innovation offers hope for shaping a better tomorrow.
“Arco” has garnered critical acclaim, winning the best animated feature at the European Film Awards and earning a nomination in the same category at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards. For Bienvenu, the film’s essence lies in the idea that sometimes, defeat can lead to ultimate victory, echoing the philosophical notion that “From wrong comes the right.”
Overall, “Arco” challenges viewers to contemplate the power of imagination and resilience in navigating uncertain futures, underscoring the importance of embracing change and fostering a proactive mindset to shape a brighter tomorrow.