Netflix has just acquired a new animated film that premiered at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival to overwhelming acclaim. Titled In Waves, this stunning adaptation is based on the 2019 graphic memoir by AJ Dungo and has been described as an elegantly animated coming-of-age romance.
A Heartbreaking True Story
The film centres on two Los Angeles high school students, AJ and Kristen, who fall deeply in love. AJ, a shy skateboarder and artist, is voiced by Will Sharpe (Amadeus), while Kristen, an outgoing surfer, is brought to life by Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All at Once). Their close friendship blossoms into a profound romance, but tragedy strikes when Kristen develops a sudden illness that tests their relationship in unimaginable ways.
Stunning Animation and Direction
Director Phuong Mai Nguyen makes her feature debut with In Waves, which opened Cannes' Critics Week to rave reviews. Variety called it a tearjerker that hits all the right notes, while the Hollywood Reporter praised it as an eloquent rendering of first love, heart-crushing loss, and the joy of surfing. The film was written by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux, with a supporting voice cast including Johnny Young, Alejandro Antonio Ruiz, Griffin Puatu, Taiana Tully, and Jacki Jing.
The Acclaimed Graphic Memoir
AJ Dungo's original illustrated memoir has developed a strong cult following, earning thousands of five-star reviews on Goodreads. One reader described it as a masterpiece with elegantly sparse text, while another admitted to struggling to hold back tears while reading it. The book's emotional depth and beautiful storytelling have clearly translated well to the screen.
Release and Streaming Plans
In Waves is slated for a cinema release this July in France and Belgium. Netflix has acquired streaming rights for other territories, including the United Kingdom and the United States, though a specific release date has yet to be announced. Fans of heartfelt animated stories and graphic novel adaptations will undoubtedly be eager to experience this moving tale.
