Netflix has acquired distribution rights to "In Waves," an animated feature that premiered in the Critics' Week section at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. The deal marks an early win for the streaming platform during this year's market cycle.
Director Phuong Mai Nguyen crafted the film with a voice cast that includes Will Sharpe and Stephanie Hsu. Sharpe, known for his roles in "The Darkest Timeline" and "Black Mirror," joins Hsu, who gained prominence through "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" and her acclaimed performance in Jon M. Chu's "Crazy Rich Asians."
The Critics' Week selection represents a significant platform for indie films at Cannes, often serving as a launchpad for emerging directors and unconventional narratives. Netflix's quick acquisition signals the streamer's continued aggressive buying strategy at major festivals, where it competes with traditional distributors and rival platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV Plus for prestige content.
The deal underscores Netflix's commitment to acquiring animated features for its global audience. The platform has previously invested in projects spanning various styles and storytelling approaches, from internationally acclaimed works to star-driven projects designed for algorithm-friendly viewership.
Details regarding the film's plot, production timeline, and release date remain limited. Cannes 2026 continues to generate market activity as distributors, streamers, and production companies navigate a landscape where theatrical exclusivity competes with immediate streaming availability.