In Waves 2026

In Waves is an upcoming French-Belgian animated romantic drama directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen and written by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux. The film is based on AJ Dungo’s acclaimed 2019 graphic memoir of the same name. The voice cast includes Rio Vega, Lyna Khoudri, and Paul Kircher, with an English-language version featuring Stephanie Hsu and Will Sharpe. The film is set to open the Critics’ Week section at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival before arriving in French cinemas on July 1, 2026.

• Release Date: Scheduled for July 1, 2026 (France)
• Director: Phuong Mai Nguyen
• Genre: Animation, Romance, Drama
• Runtime: 91 Minutes
• Studio/Platform: Silex Films, France 3 Cinéma, Panique Productions, Gao Shan Pictures
• Distributor: Diaphana Distribution
• Language: French, English
• Country: France, Belgium

In Waves 2026 Storyline

Set in Los Angeles, the story follows AJ, a shy teenager who loves skateboarding and drawing, and Kristen, a passionate surfer. The two fall deeply in love and begin imagining a future together. Their lives take an unexpected turn when Kristen is diagnosed with a serious illness.

As they face an uncertain future, AJ and Kristen lean on each other, their close friends, and their shared love for the ocean. The film explores young love, grief, friendship, and the strength people find in one another during life’s most difficult moments.

Cast

French Version

• Rio Vega as AJ
• Lyna Khoudri as Kristen
• Paul Kircher as Eon
• Birane Ba

English Version

• Will Sharpe
• Stephanie Hsu

Production Details

In Waves marks the feature directorial debut of Phuong Mai Nguyen, who also served as the film’s graphic designer. The screenplay was written by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux and adapts AJ Dungo’s autobiographical graphic novel. The film was produced by Priscilla Bertin and Judith Nora, with music composed by Oklou and Robin “Rob” Coudert and editing by Roberto Fernández.

The animation combines 2D artwork with 3D techniques to recreate surfing sequences and the California coastline. The project has already attracted attention for its visual style and emotional storytelling and became the first animated feature to open Cannes Critics’ Week.

Release Date & Where to Watch

In Waves is scheduled to be released in French cinemas on July 1, 2026, following its world premiere as the opening film of the 2026 Cannes Critics’ Week. Netflix has acquired global distribution rights outside France, although an official streaming premiere date has not yet been announced.