Patty reviews “Arco,” animated film about time travel and protecting the planet

The French animated sci-fi adventure “Arco” is now in theaters, featuring a time-traveling protagonist and themes of environmental awareness. The film, which earned an Academy Award nomination for best animated feature, follows a 10-year-old boy who travels from the distant future back to the 21st century.

Originally premiering at the Cannes Film Festival, “Arco” opened in international markets last year before its release for English-speaking audiences. Patty Spitler described the movie as a science fiction adventure that tackles serious global issues while delivering a hopeful message for younger viewers.

The story centers on Arco, a boy who journeys from the year 2932 back to 2075 by jumping on a rainbow. There, he meets a young girl named Iris, who witnesses him fall from the sky. Iris shelters Arco and helps him attempt to return to his own time, which is portrayed as an idyllic future where time travel exists. To get home, Arco must retrieve a diamond hidden in his shoe.

Writers Ugo Bienvenu and Félix de Givry, along with directors Bienvenu and Gilles Cazaux, wove environmental challenges and social commentary into the narrative. Spitler said the film’s message encourages young audiences to consider how they can improve the planet.