In Waves becomes first animated film to open Cannes Critics’ Week section.
Phuong Mai Nguyen adapts AJ Dungo’s graphic novel into emotional feature debut.
Cannes 2026 lineup includes 11 films, highlighting emerging global filmmaking voices.
In Waves To Open Cannes Critics’ Week, Marking Historic First For Animation
In Waves will open Cannes Critics’ Week, becoming the first animated feature to achieve this honour. Directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, the film adapts AJ Dungo’s graphic novel into a tender story of love, loss, and memory.
Summary
In Waves has secured a landmark position at the Cannes Film Festival, as it is set to open the prestigious Critics’ Week section. The announcement places Phuong Mai Nguyen’s debut feature in the spotlight, marking the first time an animated film has been chosen to open this influential sidebar, known for highlighting emerging voices in cinema.
Cannes Critics’ Week 2026: A breakthrough for animated cinema
The selection signals a quiet but significant shift in how animation is being positioned at global festivals. Traditionally dominated by live-action films, Critics’ Week has now turned its opening slot over to an animated feature, placing In Waves among 11 carefully curated titles this year.
The film is based on AJ Dungo’s autobiographical graphic novel set in California. It follows two young people, a skateboarder and a surfer, whose friendship evolves into love, only to be tested by illness. The story moves between joy and grief, capturing the fragility of human connection.
In Waves story and voice cast bring emotional depth
The English-language version features voices by Will Sharpe and Stephanie Hsu, while a French version will also be screened at the festival. Produced by Silex Films along with Charades and Anonymous Content, the film carries a distinctly international identity despite its intimate narrative.
It was shared by director Phuong Mai Nguyen that storytelling through drawn images had always been her primary interest. It was further expressed that the graphic novel had unexpectedly resonated with her, as its themes of love, loss and friendship were handled with rare sensitivity. The work was described as embodying a form of emotional healing that she considers essential to art.
Nguyen, a graduate of Gobelins and La Poudrière, has previously worked on acclaimed short films and series, building a strong foundation in animation before this feature debut.
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The Cannes Critics’ Week is scheduled to take place from May 13 to 21, where In Waves will make its opening mark.
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