There's a certain kind of story that, when told well, can feel like a tidal wave of emotion, washing over you and leaving you breathless. Phuong Mai Nguyen's animated debut, "In Waves," is precisely that kind of film. It’s an elegantly crafted tale that doesn't shy away from the raw, potent feelings of young love facing an insurmountable challenge, and personally, I think it’s a testament to the power of honest storytelling.
What makes "In Waves" so immediately compelling is its gentle, almost philosophical approach to heartbreak. It’s not trying to shock you; instead, it aims to envelop you in its sentiment, much like the ocean it so beautifully depicts. From my perspective, this is a film that understands the profound impact of a well-told, heartfelt narrative, and it leans into that with a disarming sincerity that’s rare to find these days. It’s the kind of movie that invites you to simply let go and feel, and frankly, that’s a gift.
At its core, the story, adapted from AJ Dungo's graphic novel, centers on AJ and Kristen, two high schoolers in Los Angeles whose worlds are as different as land and sea. AJ, a skateboarder with a deep-seated fear of water, and Kristen, a passionate surfer who finds her soul in the ocean, are an unlikely pair. Their initial dynamic, a sort of John Hughes-meets-Cameron Crowe vibe, is utterly charming. I find it particularly fascinating how their contrasting personalities and passions – his groundedness versus her oceanic spirit – create such a magnetic pull. It’s a classic setup, but the execution feels fresh and genuine.
The film attempts to weave in the history of surfing, a nod to Kristen's profound connection with the sport. While I appreciate the ambition to add layers to the narrative, in my opinion, these historical detours sometimes pull focus from the emotional core of AJ and Kristen's relationship. What starts as an intriguing connective tissue can, at times, feel like a distraction, making me yearn to return to the present-day story of the couple. It’s a delicate balance, and while the film’s visual language beautifully captures Kristen’s reverence for surfing, these historical excursions felt a bit redundant to me, almost as if the present narrative already held enough depth.
Another detail that stood out, though not a deal-breaker, was the English voice performances by Will Sharpe and Stephanie Hsu. While they bring commitment and warmth to their roles, their generally upbeat tone occasionally felt at odds with the film’s underlying melancholy. It’s a minor point, and the film’s honest demeanor carries it through, but I couldn't help but wonder how the original French performances might have colored the emotional landscape differently.
However, these are minor quibbles in the face of the film's overwhelming emotional honesty. The true magic of "In Waves" unfolds when Kristen's severe health issues come to light. The animation truly shines in the water scenes, where Kristen teaches AJ to swim and surf. Nguyen masterfully captures the exhilaration, the freedom, and the sheer joy of being immersed in water. It’s a breathtaking depiction of boundless energy and connection, which makes Kristen’s subsequent cancer diagnosis all the more devastating. What this really suggests is how deeply we become invested in these characters' happiness before the inevitable storm hits.
The film navigates Kristen's journey through clinics and hospitals with immense grace, always keeping AJ by her side. What I find particularly poignant is Kristen's unwavering resilience, even after losing a leg and learning to surf with a prosthetic. This is a true story, so the return of cancer isn't a surprise, but the way the film handles the subsequent shift in priorities – focusing on making memories and quality of life – is handled with such dignity. The gorgeous trip to the Pacific Northwest, with its vibrant textures and lush landscapes, is rendered with exquisite delicacy, offering a beautiful backdrop for their final chapters.
When I compare "In Waves" to other films that tackle similar themes, like "Me and Earl and the Dying Girl," I see a crucial difference. "In Waves" avoids the pitfall of making the ill character solely a catalyst for the protagonist's growth. Instead, it honors Kristen's humanity fully, ensuring her journey is not just a tool for AJ's coming-of-age. His grief, which we witness, is profound and deeply felt precisely because we come to know Kristen intimately through his eyes. This, to me, is the hallmark of exceptional storytelling – when the pain and love of both individuals resonate equally. The grief, much like the ocean, ebbs and flows, and it's a journey I believe is profoundly worth experiencing.
What does this film ultimately leave us with? For me, it's a powerful reminder that even in the face of profound loss, love and resilience can create waves of enduring beauty. It’s a story that asks us to consider how we navigate life's inevitable challenges and the preciousness of the moments we share. It makes you wonder, what waves are you riding, and what will you leave behind?
