‘In Waves’ Premieres at Cannes: A Poignant Exploration of First Love and Resilience Amidst Life’s Challenges
The animated film In Waves made history as the first animated feature to open the Critics’ Week at the Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, the film presents a heartfelt narrative that intertwines themes of love, loss, and resilience. The story follows AJ, an introverted skateboarder, and Kristen, a spirited surfer, as they navigate the complexities of adolescence and the challenges life throws their way.
A Journey Through Animation and Emotion
In Waves is based on AJ Dungo’s 2019 graphic novel of the same name. The film’s protagonist, AJ, portrayed by Will Sharpe, is a visual artist whose life is profoundly impacted by his relationship with Kristen, played by Stephanie Hsu. The film’s animation style, characterized by its elegant hand-drawn visuals, enhances the emotional depth of the story. Nguyen’s directorial debut captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal beauty through a vibrant watercolor palette, while also incorporating poignant black-and-white sequences featuring an imagined Hawaiian princess.
The film’s narrative structure intersperses AJ’s journey with scenes that foreshadow his eventual solitude as a committed surfer and artist. This duality adds layers to the storytelling, allowing audiences to engage with the characters on a deeper level.
Character Dynamics and Development
At the film’s outset, AJ is described by his best friend, Francisco, as “aquaphobic.” Kristen quickly takes it upon herself to help him overcome this fear, introducing him to the world of surfing. Alongside her brother Jeff and cousin Eon, they form a close-knit group. The dynamics of friendship are poignantly illustrated, particularly when Francisco moves away, leaving AJ to navigate his feelings of loss and change.
The screenplay, crafted by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux, captures the essence of adolescence with precision. Moments such as the awkward goodbye between AJ and Francisco highlight the bittersweet nature of growing up, while the tension of sending a text to a crush encapsulates the thrill and anxiety of young love.
Themes of Identity and Cultural Heritage
The film also explores themes of cultural identity, particularly through its Philippine American characters. Kristen’s surfing lessons extend beyond physical skill; she shares the historical significance of surfing in Hawaiian culture, including the impact of colonization. This cultural backdrop enriches the narrative, providing a nuanced perspective on identity that resonates with the characters’ experiences.
Kristen and AJ’s romance unfolds through familiar yet captivating moments. Their first kiss beneath a starry sky and AJ’s joyous skateboarding home in the rain evoke a sense of youthful exuberance. These scenes are not merely romantic; they serve to illustrate the characters’ emotional growth and the transformative power of love.
Navigating Life’s Challenges
The film takes a dramatic turn when Kristen faces a health crisis, a pivotal moment that tests the strength of their relationship. This crisis is introduced with a sense of urgency, showcasing Kristen’s vulnerability. As she confronts a life-threatening illness, AJ’s commitment to her deepens, culminating in a significant moment when they officially acknowledge their relationship to her parents.
The narrative deftly balances themes of determination and the unpredictability of life. Kristen’s journey back to vitality is marked by a newfound understanding of her own resilience. A striking overhead shot of the four friends waiting for a wave against a sunset backdrop encapsulates the film’s emotional core, blending beauty with hard-earned wisdom.
A Talented Ensemble Cast
The film features a strong English-language cast, including Johnny Young, Alejandro Antonio Ruiz, Griffin Puatu, Taiana Tully, and Jacki Jing. The performances of Sharpe and Hsu stand out, creating a compelling contrast as they navigate their aspirations and the complexities of their relationship. A trip to New York serves as a backdrop for further character development, revealing the paradox of their deepening commitment alongside hidden truths.
Nguyen’s direction strikes a balance between visual storytelling and narrative depth. The film’s sound design enhances the viewing experience, capturing the sounds of the ocean, the rustling of palm trees, and the scratch of markers on paper, all contributing to the film’s immersive atmosphere.
The Role of Water in the Narrative
Water serves as a central motif throughout In Waves, symbolizing both connection and transformation. The film adeptly captures the various textures and movements of water, reflecting the characters’ emotional journeys. As AJ, Kristen, Jeff, and Eon venture from Southern California to the Pacific Northwest, they encounter both beauty and challenges, illustrating the complexities of love and friendship.
In Waves is a film that seamlessly blends poetic imagery with the realities of everyday life. Its exploration of love, loss, and resilience resonates deeply, offering viewers a poignant reflection on the human experience.
As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.
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Published on 2026-05-13 12:16:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk