Keep a tissue box nearby. Netflix has dropped the first trailer for In Waves, an animated romance with a lot of heart and a lot of ocean. It is a quiet, emotional film that already has awards buzz, and you may want to see it before everyone starts talking about it.
What Is In Waves About?
The film adapts AJ Dungo’s 2019 graphic memoir, which tells a true story. AJ is a shy teenager in Los Angeles who loves skateboarding and drawing. At a school dance he meets Kristen, a passionate surfer who coaxes him into the water despite his fear of it. Then a sudden illness changes everything. It is a story about love, grief and learning to let go.
In Waves : Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Trailer Release | October 20, 2026 |
| Theatrical Run | November 27, 2026 (select theaters) |
| Netflix Streaming | December 11, 2026 (worldwide except France) |
| Director | Phuong Mai Nguyen (feature debut) |
| Voice Cast (English) | Will Sharpe as AJ, Stephanie Hsu as Kristen |
| Music | Oklou and Rob |
| Rotten Tomatoes | 94% |
Why Everyone Is Talking About It?
In Waves became the first animated film to open Cannes Critics’ Week, and Netflix picked it up in May. It then competed at Annecy, one of the world’s top animation festivals. Netflix is now pushing it as a Best Animated Feature contender.
The look is bold: hand-painted 2D backgrounds paired with CG characters. The ocean is more than scenery, because it mirrors what the characters feel. Not every critic loved the mix, but most agree it is a brave swing.
Should You Watch It?
If you enjoy emotional stories like Your Name or Everything Everywhere All at Once (Stephanie Hsu is in that one too), this is an easy yes. For more streaming updates, see our OTT news and entertainment coverage. If you like staying ahead of the next big release, our latest movie and web series updates are worth a look.
FAQs
Q1. When will In Waves be on Netflix?
It starts streaming globally on December 11, 2026, except in France, after a limited theatrical run on November 27.
Q2. Who voices the lead characters in In Waves?
Will Sharpe voices AJ and Stephanie Hsu voices Kristen in the English version.
