Netflix has revealed a new look at In Waves, confirming its global release date as December 11, 2026, as part of its major animation showcase at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. The announcement included a fresh image from the film, offering audiences an early look into what is shaping up to be one of the platform’s most emotionally driven animated releases.
Among a packed slate featuring high-profile titles, In Waves stands out for its grounded storytelling and intimate focus on love, loss, and resilience. The film is part of Netflix’s continued push into diverse animation, blending heartfelt narratives with visually distinct styles.
A Love Story Rooted in Reality
At its core, In Waves is a coming-of-age romance set in Los Angeles, following two teenagers, AJ and Kristen, whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. AJ is a quiet, introverted artist who spends his time skateboarding and drawing, while Kristen is energetic and passionate about surfing. Despite their differences, the two quickly form a deep connection.
However, their relationship is tested when Kristen faces a sudden illness, forcing both characters to confront challenges far beyond their years. What follows is a journey shaped by love, grief, and the strength they draw from each other, their friends, and their shared connection to the ocean.
This emotional premise sets In Waves apart from more traditional animated features, leaning into mature themes while maintaining a relatable and human story at its center.
The newly released image from the film hints at its reflective and atmospheric tone. While Netflix has kept visuals limited so far, the early look suggests a strong focus on character-driven storytelling, supported by expressive animation and a soft, evocative color palette.
The ocean, a central element in the story, appears to play both a literal and symbolic role, reflecting the emotional highs and lows experienced by the characters. This thematic connection between environment and emotion is expected to be a defining aspect of the film’s visual identity.
Creative Team and Source Material
In Waves is directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen and written by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux. The film is based on the acclaimed graphic novel by AJ Dungo, which has been praised for its deeply personal and moving storytelling.
The voice cast includes Will Sharpe and Stephanie Hsu, both of whom bring emotional depth to the film’s central relationship. Their performances are expected to play a key role in translating the story’s intimate tone to the screen.
The project has already generated strong buzz, particularly after its debut at Cannes Critics’ Week, where it received positive early reactions. Critics have highlighted the film’s emotional resonance and elegant animation style, positioning it as a standout title among upcoming animated releases.
The reveal of In Waves comes during a period of significant growth for Netflix’s animation division. With more than 130 million members watching animated content each month and anime viewership continuing to rise, the platform is expanding its reach across genres and audiences.
By backing projects like In Waves, Netflix is signaling a commitment to storytelling that goes beyond spectacle, focusing instead on emotionally rich narratives that can connect with viewers on a deeper level.
