In the animated film “Arco” by filmmaker Ugo Bienvenu, a unique portrayal of two future scenarios unfolds. The storyline follows a young boy who accidentally travels back in time from the year 2932 to the near future of 2075. The contrast between these two periods is striking. The future world of 2932 is depicted as a desolate landscape marred by climate disasters and rising sea levels, making it nearly uninhabitable. On the other hand, the near future of 2075, while more familiar, is facing its own challenges, such as a looming forest fire on the outskirts of a village.
Bienvenu and actress Natalie Portman, who co-produced and starred in the film, view these divergent futures as reflections of potential paths for humanity. Bienvenu expressed his optimism through the film, aiming to inspire the younger generation to trust their instincts and ideas, emphasizing the power of creativity and innovation in shaping a better future.
Portman was drawn to the project’s exploration of both dark and hopeful aspects of the future. She emphasized the importance of embracing uncertainty and rejecting fatalistic attitudes, highlighting the role of imagination and human ingenuity in driving positive change. The film’s refusal to offer a definitive prediction has resonated well, earning it recognition as the best animated feature at the European Film Awards and a nomination at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards.
For Bienvenu, the essence of “Arco” lies in the idea that sometimes, losing can lead to unexpected victories. He believes in the concept of “ex falso verum sequitur,” where truth emerges from falsehood, underscoring the film’s underlying message of resilience and transformation.
