The animated film world is buzzing. Arco, the debut film from French artist Ugo Bienvenu, has made waves at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.
Shown as a Special Screening, the 2D sci-fi movie caught the eye of indie studio Neon, which bought North American rights.
The film is produced by Natalie Portman, who also voices a role. Critics have already compared it to Studio Ghibli classics.
“With Arco, Ugo Bienvenu doesn’t just create a film—he paints a world where memory, color, and climate collide in a deeply human future.”
A Cannes Hit
Announced May 24, Neon’s deal adds Arco to its lineup of daring films. Neon has backed Oscar-nominated works like Flee and Robot Dreams, as well as Parasite and Anatomy of a Fall.
Arco stands out for its rich colors and emotional depth. It was made by Portman and Sophie Mas at Mountain A, with Félix de Givry at Remembers. Early praise points to awards potential later this year.
The Story of Arco
The movie follows a boy named Arco (Oscar Tresanini) from the year 2932. On his first rainbow flight, he lands in 2075, where climate change shapes daily life.
There he meets Iris (Margot Ringard Oldra). Together they try to return him home. Along the way, they face a future with nanny robots, holograms, and fragile weather systems.
The film blends childlike wonder with sharp notes on nature and technology. It runs 82 minutes and features voices from Swann Arlaud, Alma Jodorowsky, Vincent Macaigne, and Louis Garrel.
Why It Works
Bienvenu, trained at Gobelins and CalArts, mixes hand-drawn art with bold ideas. His past graphic novel Préférence Système inspires the look of the film.
Portman called the movie “a joy of beauty.” She praised its ability to treat serious themes with light and hope.
The world of 2075—with glass domes and robot care—feels both strange and close to our own. Yet the movie stays warm and playful, much like The Iron Giant or Wall-E.
Neon’s Bet on Animation
Neon has become a trusted name for bold animated films. With Arco, it extends that streak. Industry talk suggests the film could be an awards dark horse.
Bienvenu’s move from comics and shorts to a full feature is a leap that paid off. His choice to hand-draw gives the film a human touch that CGI often misses.
What’s Next
Neon has not set a release date, but Arco is expected to hit theaters in 2025. The film will likely tour more festivals before its wide launch.
Sales company Gebeka International is already drawing strong interest overseas.
For fans of animation, sci-fi, or heartfelt stories, Arco offers a rich and colorful ride. Keep an eye out for Neon’s updates on its release.
Key Points:
- Ugo Bienvenu’s Arco made its debut at Cannes 2025.
- Neon bought North American rights after the Special Screening.
- Natalie Portman produced and voiced a role.
- The story follows a boy from 2932 who lands in 2075.
- Critics call it France’s answer to Studio Ghibli.
FAQ
Q1. What recent award has Arco won?
Arco won the Cristal for Best Feature Film at the 2025 Annecy Animation Festival.
Q2. When is Arco releasing in the America ?
It will reach American’s theaters on 14 November, 2025.
Q3. Who are the main voices in the English version?
The Main Voice cast includes Will Ferrell, America Ferrera, Flea, Natalie Portman, Mark Ruffalo, Andy Samberg.
Q4. What other recognition did Arco get at Annecy?
It also won the SACEM Award for Best Original Soundtrack at Annecy.
