Netflix acquires animated coming-of-age romance film ‘In Waves’ at the 2026 Cannes Critics’ Week

The film is directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, with the English dub starring Will Sharpe and Stephanie Hsu. Reviews so far have been positive and some compare the animation to Klaus and Spider-Verse even with its indie budget.

>Set in Los Angeles, the film follows AJ, a shy teenager who loves skateboarding and drawing, and Kristen, a passionate surfer. The pair fall deeply in love and envision a future together until Kristen is struck by a sudden illness. Together, they navigate adversity through the strength of their relationship, the support of their friends and a shared connection to surfing and the ocean.

Based on a book if anyone wants to read it ahead of time.