In Netflix’s first major deal from the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, the streamer has acquired worldwide rights outside France to Critics’ Weekly opener “In Waves,” an adaptation of AJ Dango’s 2019 graphic memoir.
Directed by Huong My Nguyen, the animated romance features the voices of Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu and BAFTA winner Will Sharp.
The film opened Critics Week to rave reviews and quickly emerged as one of the highlights of Cannes’ parallel division. In a review, Variety magazine called the film “elegantly animated” and praised the emotional depth of Nguyen’s coming-of-age love story.
After multiple offers around the world, Netflix won the high-profile project in a fierce bidding war. The deal is rumored to be in the mid-seven figures and was negotiated on behalf of the filmmaker by Anonymous Content, CAA Media Finance, and Charese.
Produced by Silex Films, distributed in France by Diaphana, and distributed internationally by Charade, “In Waves” is directed by Huong My Nguyen, written by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Do, and based on the acclaimed graphic novel by Dango.
Set in Los Angeles, the film follows AJ, a shy teenager who loves skateboarding and drawing, and Kristen, a passionate surfer. The two fall deeply in love and dream of a future together, until Kristen suddenly falls ill. They overcome adversity together through the strength of their bond, the support of their friends, and their shared connection to surfing and the ocean.
The film is produced by Priscilla Bertin and Judith Nora. Executive producers include David Levine, Johan Conte, Carol Balaton, Pierre Mathers, Sharp, Hsu and Nick Shoemaker, and David Levine on behalf of Anonymous Content.
“From the beginning, we were encouraged by Mai’s undeniable talent and AJ’s storytelling ability to deeply move viewers,” said David Levine and Nick Shoemaker of Anonymous Content. “This exciting partnership with Netflix will bring our romantic coming-of-age story to people around the world.”
Priscilla Bertin of Silex Films said: “We are thrilled with this partnership with Netflix and their enthusiasm for In Waves. This gives us the opportunity to reach the widest possible audience and share this deeply moving and true love story with the world.”
—Zach Scharf contributed to this report.
