Credit: Netflix

In a move that probably no one saw coming, Netflix just scooped up the global rights outside of France for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival Critics Week opener, In Waves, which adapts AJ Dungo’s acclaimed 2019 graphic memoir.

According to an exclusive Variety report, the animated romance, directed by Phuong Mai Nguyen, marks Netflix’s first major deal out of this year’s Cannes, which launched at the Critics’ Week, making waves and earning rave reviews.

While In Waves has rapidly emerged as one of the groundbreaking titles from Cannes’ parallel sections, thanks to the emotional appeal of Nguyen’s coming-of-age love story, the animated feature is led by a star voice cast, featuring Oscar-nominated Stephanie Hsu and BAFTA winner Will Sharpe.

As per the tabloid, the acquisition was far from a cakewalk for Netflix. Multiple big-budget studios from all around the world were involved in this highly competitive bidding war. However, the streaming powerhouse outbid everyone in the game, ultimately agreeing on what’s rumoured to be in the mid-seven-figure range.

Anonymous Content, CAA Media Finance, and Charades negotiated the deal on behalf of the makers. Produced by Silex Films, In Waves is distributed in France by Diaphana and sold internationally by Charades. Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux have co-written the script from Dungo’s beloved novel.

Set in the City of Angels, In Waves tells the story of a timid teenager, AJ, who loves to skateboard and draw, and Kristen, an aspiring surfer who finds it less a hobby and more of a passion. With one another, they navigate the ups and downs, thanks to the firm foundation and strength of their bond, the support of their friends, and a shared connection to surfing and the ocean.

Priscilla Bertin and Judith Nora have produced the Critics’ Week opener with David Levine, Yohann Comte, Carole Baraton, Pierre Mazars, Sharpe, Hsu, and Nick Schumaker executive-producing on behalf of Anonymous Content.

“From the very start, we were energised by Mai’s unmistakable talent and the ability of AJ’s story to deeply move audiences,” said Levine and Shumaker of Anonymous Content. “This exciting partnership with Netflix will ensure that our romantic, coming-of-age story reaches people all over the world.”

While no streaming counterpart comes close to Netflix when it comes to global exposure, Bertin of Silex Films added, “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.” Although there’s still no word on when the feature will be available for streaming, check back later for more information.