Netflix has secured global rights outside of France to one of the standout titles from the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, acquiring the animated feature In Waves following a competitive bidding war.
The deal marks the streamer’s first major acquisition out of Cannes this year, underlining its continued investment in international animation and emotionally driven storytelling. While financial terms were not officially disclosed, industry sources suggest the deal landed in the mid-seven figure range.
Directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, In Waves premiered as the opening film of Critics’ Week, where it quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about titles in Cannes’ parallel sections. The film has been widely praised for its visual elegance and emotional depth, with Variety describing it as “an elegantly animated adaptation,’” praising the emotional depth of Nguyen’s coming-of-age love story.
Phuong Mai Nguyen is a Vietnamese-French filmmaker whose work often bridges Asian and European cinematic traditions. Based in France, she has built a reputation for intimate, character-driven stories that explore identity, culture, and human connection. Her background informs the nuanced emotional landscape of In Waves, adding depth to the film’s portrayal of love, loss, and resilience.
The project adapts AJ Dungo’s acclaimed 2019 graphic memoir and features a high-profile voice cast led by Oscar-nominated Stephanie Hsu and BAFTA winner Will Sharpe.
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Set in Los Angeles, the story follows AJ, a shy teenager who loves skateboarding and drawing, and Kristen, a passionate surfer. The pair fall deeply in love and envision a future together until Kristen is struck by a sudden illness. Together, they navigate adversity through the strength of their relationship, the support of their friends and a shared connection to surfing and the ocean.
Produced by Silex Films and written by Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux, In Waves is being distributed in France by Diaphana, with international sales handled by Charades. Producers include Priscilla Bertin and Judith Nora, with executive producers including David Levine, Yohann Comte, Carole Baraton, Pierre Mazars, Sharpe, Hsu, Nick Shumaker and David Levine on behalf of Anonymous Content.
“From the very start, we were energized by Mai’s unmistakable talent and the ability of AJ’s story to deeply move audiences,” said David Levine and Nick Shumaker of Anonymous Content. “This exciting partnership with Netflix will ensure that our romantic, coming-of-age story reaches people all over the world.”
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Priscilla Bertin of Silex Films said: “I am very happy about this partnership with Netflix and their enthusiasm for ‘In Waves,’ which gives us the opportunity to reach the broadest possible audience and share this deeply moving true love story with the world.”
