Are you a fan of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Elio, Chupa and fun, alien-style stories filled with friendship and wonder? Then Arco might just become your next favourite movie! Even though it’s not about an alien, a time traveller from the future brings the same magic and excitement.
This French animated science-fantasy film has wowed audiences at film festivals and even won an Academy Award, making it a truly special watch. At its heart, it’s about friendship, especially the kind that forms between people who are very different, yet deeply connected.
From the very first scene, Arco pulls you into a bright, colourful world full of imagination, adventure and emotion.
The story follows Arco, a curious and brave young boy living in the year 2932, high above the clouds, far away from Earth. His parents and older sister are time travellers, so it’s no surprise that Arco dreams of exploring too. Wanting to visit the dinosaur era, he secretly sneaks away one night and ends up on Earth in the year 2075.
In this future world, robots help run daily life, and everything feels faster and more advanced than today. Arco meets Iris, a kind 10-year-old girl, her baby brother Peter and their friendly robot caretaker, Mikki. Since Iris’s parents are busy working in the city, she spends most of her time on her own, until Arco arrives and changes everything.
But there’s also trouble. Three clumsy brothers are searching for Arco, hoping to catch him and uncover his secrets. Co-written and directed by Ugo Bienvenu, the film also features actors like Natalie Portman, Mark Ruffalo, Will Ferrell and America Ferrera.
One of the best things about Arco is its animation.
The film uses visuals so beautifully and both 2075 and 2932 are presented in a creative and believable way, making these futuristic worlds easy to accept.
There is one small downside: Arco and Iris don’t always listen to their parents and sometimes break the rules, which may not be the best example for younger viewers.
Overall, Arco is a fun, heartwarming film for kids and families. It’s exciting, colourful and filled with important lessons about friendship, courage and understanding others. No wonder it won an Oscar, it’s a movie that stays with you long after it ends.
Published in Dawn, Young World, April 4th, 2026