IN WAVES (France / 2026)
2026 | 90 min | English
Director: Phuong Mai Nguyen
Stars: Will Sharpe, Stephanie Hsu
AJ, a shy teenager in Los Angeles, meets Kristen, a fearless and passionate surfer who is also the most beautiful person he has ever seen. They quickly fall madly in love, but their happiness is threatened when Kristen is diagnosed with a serious illness. Together, they face an uncertain future, finding strength in their love of surfing, the ocean and the support of their close-knit friends. Both heartbreaking and uplifting, this is a powerful story about love, loss and how the people who touch our lives can leave an imprint that lasts forever.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS
Cannes Film Festival 2026 (Critics' Week) – Opening Film / Official Selection
Toronto International Film Festival 2026 – Official Selection
Festival do Rio 2026 – Official Selection
CRITICAL ACCLAIM
"Spirited, tender and wrenching" – The Hollywood Reporter
"Very much worth riding" – Variety
"Gorgeously realised" – The Playlist
"Beautiful, emotional animation" – IndieWire
"Beautifully bittersweet love story" – The Moveable Fest
"Gorgeous… stunning" – Next Best Picture
"Gorgeous and deeply affecting" – The Jam Report
"Sensitive and moving" – Awards Buzz
"Gorgeous animation" – Deadline Hollywood Daily

