Set in the near-future, Corsica has become the last remaining unspoiled spot of green on the world as we know it. “Beauty Island” is paradise for a handful of people: the ultra-rich, ill-mannered, demanding tourists from Elsewhere. They want wild nature, but in a bubble, and they’re always after more comfort. In contrast to this idyllic postcard-perfect setting and all its contradictions, the rhythm of the seasons has been disturbed by a climate that’s out of whack, making the livelihood of the locals who’ve been forced to accept this perverse tourism precarious. Our story begins when Agughia (“eel” in Corsican), a proud, resourceful young woman who survives off of petty theft, steals a mysterious object from an employee of Radius, a powerful lobbying firm for land developers. All she wants is to make as much money as she can to get off the island and pursue her dreams in Elsewhere, far away from poverty. Despite her intentions, she triggers a disastrously funny chain reaction that undermines Radius’ projects.
Hugues Micol offers up a euphoric dystopia, drawn in a style reminiscent of vintage sci-fi!
