Arthur: The Revenge of Maltazard (Film)

Arthur: The Revenge of Maltazard is an animated adventure film written and directed by French filmmaker Luc Besson and released in 2009. It is the second installment in the Arthur series and serves as a sequel to the 2006 film Arthur and the Minimoys. The production is presented in a hybrid format combining live-action and three-dimensional computer animation. The film is based on the children’s book series written by Luc Besson.

Plot

In the film, Arthur, after spending his summer vacation at his grandmother’s house, plans to return to the world of the Minimoys. One day, he believes he receives a distress call from within this microscopic universe, no larger than a grain of rice, and embarks once again on a journey to change dimensions. However, the call is a trap set by his malevolent enemy Maltazard. As Arthur falls into the trap, Maltazard succeeds in crossing over into the real human world. The film sets the stage for Arthur’s struggle against Maltazard, who has become a colossal threat in his world.

Scene from Arthur: The Revenge of Maltazard (IMDb)

Themes

The film highlights themes such as imagination, courage, loyalty, and self-sacrifice. The story revolves around the idea of how children can overcome threats that seem enormous in their world. It also emphasizes the importance of family bonds, friendship, and individual initiative. While the struggle between good and evil continues from the first film in the series, in this second installment the conflict is portrayed in a darker and more menacing manner.

Box Office Performance

The film was released in France on 2 December 2009. It earned approximately 65 million US dollars internationally. It did not achieve the same level of commercial success as the first film in the series. However, it found an audience in European markets, particularly in France, Germany, and Belgium.

Production Process

EuropaCorp produced the film. Luc Besson played an active role not only in writing the screenplay and directing but also in the production process. The film was created by combining live-action footage with digital animation. The animation segments were produced in France, while some visual effects work was carried out in collaboration with international studio partners.

The music was composed by Eric Serra, and the visual narrative balances fantastical and realistic elements. The film has a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes.

Characters and Voice Cast

• Arthur

The main character of the film series. He is brave, curious, and possesses a strong sense of justice. He has adapted to the world of the Minimoys and earned the trust of its people.

Voice (French): Freddie Highmore

• Maltazard

The main antagonist. Once a prince of the Minimoy universe who sought to grow to giant size, he has become a malevolent figure. In this film, he crosses into the human dimension and becomes a major threat in the real world.

Voice: Lou Reed (English version), Marc Lavoine (French version)

• Selenia

The Minimoy princess. She is courageous, intelligent, and possesses strong leadership qualities. She develops emotional attachment to Arthur.

Voice: Selena Gomez (English version), Mylène Farmer (French version)

• Betameche

Selenia’s brother. He is a humorous and energetic character who plays a supporting role in the film.

Voice: Jimmy Fallon (English version), Cartman (French version)

• Archibald

Arthur’s grandfather. He is a wise and guiding figure, well-versed in the secrets of the Minimoy universe.

Live-action actor: Ron Crawford

Awards and Nominations

The film received several nominations at French-based festivals but did not earn recognition at major international awards. Notable nominations include:

• NRJ Ciné Awards (2010) – Nominated for Best French Film
• Festival du Film de Comédie de l'Alpe d'Huez (2010) – Selection for Screening
• Magritte Awards (Belgium) – Nominated for Best Visual Effects