Natalie Portman’s production company, MountainA, is bringing a visually striking and thematically resonant animated science fantasy film, Arco, to wider audiences. After a successful festival run and limited theatrical releases, the film is now available on VOD as of .
Directed by Ugo Bienvenu in his feature film debut, and co-written with Félix de Givry, Arco tells the story of a ten-year-old boy who travels from a peaceful, technologically advanced future to the year 2075. The film, which premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival and won the Cristal for Best Film at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, boasts a voice cast including Swann Arlaud, Alma Jodorowsky, and Margot Ringard Oldra.
The narrative centers on Arco, who arrives in 2075 and encounters Iris. His time-travel device is damaged, leaving him stranded. Together, Arco and Iris embark on a quest to repair the device and return him to his own time, all while being pursued by a group of conspiracy theorists determined to prove Arco’s origins. The film explores themes of connection, trust, and the potential for a harmonious future, set against a backdrop of a world grappling with environmental challenges.
Bienvenu’s vision for Arco originated with a simple, striking image: a “rainbow child” falling from the sky. This initial concept, shared with Félix de Givry, became the foundation for the film’s visual world and narrative core. The project was driven by a desire to depict a future not defined by complexity, but by simplicity and harmony – a world where technology and nature coexist peacefully.
The choice of 2D animation was deliberate, reflecting a commitment to a handcrafted aesthetic. Bienvenu, with a background in drawing and illustration, collaborated closely with the developers of TVPaint software to maximize the artistic potential of the medium. The entire production took place in Paris, with an internal team ensuring a consistent artistic vision and creative focus.
Arco’s critical acclaim has been building since its Cannes debut. Following the win at Annecy, the film received nominations for Best Animated Feature at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice Awards, and Academy Awards. It also earned the National Board of Review’s Best Animated Feature award and a nomination from the London Film Critics Award. Neon initially released the film with an Academy-qualifying run in November 2025, followed by limited theatrical releases in Los Angeles and New York on , and a nationwide rollout on .
The film’s appeal extends to family audiences, with a recommended age of eight and above. Arco draws clear influences from classic films like E.T., Peter Pan, and My Neighbor Totoro, positioning itself within a tradition of emotionally resonant adventure stories that explore themes of childhood, discovery, and connection. The film’s tone is described as gentle and contemplative, offering a hopeful vision of the future.
Beyond its artistic merits, Arco represents a significant debut for Ugo Bienvenu, establishing him as a distinctive voice in animation. The film’s success also underscores Natalie Portman’s growing influence as a producer, championing unique and thought-provoking projects through MountainA. The voice cast also includes Mark Ruffalo, America Ferrera, Will Ferrell, Andy Samberg, and Flea.
Arco is now available for streaming, offering audiences a chance to experience this critically acclaimed animated film from the comfort of their homes. The film’s release on VOD follows a successful theatrical run and solidifies its position as a standout animated feature of 2025/2026.
