Between ET and Miyazaki: Rated 4.1 out of 5, this is a must-see movie this week!

At the recent Annecy Animation Festival for the prestigious Cristal feature, Arco was released in our cinemas this week. Directed by young Frenchman Hugo Bienvenue, this 2D animated gem (which is also in contention for the 2026 Oscar for Best International Film) has been very well received by the press: with an average of 4.1 out of 5, it is the best film of the week, ahead of Le Secret des Mésanges (4).

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In the year 2075, 10-year-old Iris sees a mysterious boy in a rainbow jumpsuit falling from the sky. This is Arko. He comes from a distant and idyllic future where time travel is possible. Iris accepts him and will help him in any way he can to get home.

What does the press think?

According to the part of the gang:

“This animated film appeals to young and old, whether we’re looking for entertainment or to think about the world.” By Leo Ortuno – 5/5

According to La Tribune Dimanche:

“This first feature film amazes and seduces above all with its formal mastery: hand-drawn 2D and flat pop colors, you can believe the Japanese master Miyazaki without any impression of plagiarism.” Aurelien Cabrol – 5/5

According to Le Journal du Geek:

“A political film, an environmental film, a family film, an adventure film, but above all a film of a thousand emotions, and they all feel good.” By Alain Blanvillian – 5/5

According to Mad Movies:

“Behind the simplicity of his narrative lies a treasure trove of sensibility, pampered by an abundance of brilliant imagery and a soundscape of incredible richness.” By Sasha Rossetti – 5/5

According to Cahiers du Cinéma:

“In a retro-futuristic style reminiscent of American sci-fi classics, Hugo Bienvenue’s first feature film is as intense and serious as dynamite.” Matilda Grassetti – 4/5

According to Le Figaro:

“Poetic and glowing.” By Olivier Delcroix – 4/5

According to Les Inrockuptibles :

“The author of around ten short films and animated clips, the filmmaker-turned-artist signs a small fantasy of 2D animation as both an aesthetic manifesto and a restorative ecological fable.” by Ludovic Beot – 4/5

According to Nice-Matin:

“Small touches of humor and the quirky wit of certain characters – including a vocal trio by Vincent McCain, Louis Garrel and William Lebgill – also draw attention to this honest, inventive proposal, marked by an author’s spirit that should be followed very, very closely.” By Cedric Coppola – 4/5

According to Télérama:

“A gem of a cartoon with its brilliantly beautiful visuals and hopeful narrative.” By Cecil Muir – 4/5