Here is a node version of the effect displayed here. It is quite performant. CUrrently it is keyframed but you can use the null controller to move it around.
https://www.core4d.com/ipb/forums/topic/117729-mimic-effect-in-cinema-4d-edge-of-tomorrow/#comment-755242
There is room for polishing but everything is there
Graph is not complex although it required building some helper assets
mimic_thing.c4d
More importantly check to make sure your plugin is compatible with R23. I looked up and found some arrow plugins just now which probably aren't compatible without using Insydium's free Bridge plugin. I did find this ArrowMaker plugin which has been updated:
https://microbion.co.uk/html/arrowmaker.htm
you should place them in your preferences folder. Clicking that button will open your folder. Inside there is a "plugins" folder. It should go there.
Lastly, you probably won't see a menu item for it at the top level. It will be inside Extensions: