Watch Waves

Waves is a 2019 drama film directed by Trey Edward Shults and starring Taylor Russell, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Alexa Demie. The story follows a family of four living in South Florida, and their emotional journey as they navigate through life’s ups and downs. The first half of the film is centered around Tyler (Harrison Jr.), a popular high school wrestler with a bright future ahead of him. However, pressure from his father (Sterling K. Brown) to excel becomes too much for Tyler to handle, and he ends up making a decision that changes his life and the lives of his loved ones forever. The second half of the movie shifts its focus onto Tyler’s younger sister, Emily (Russell), as she tries to cope with the aftermath of her brother’s actions. Emily’s story is one of healing and self-discovery as she learns to forgive herself and others, while also figuring out her own identity and place in the world. Throughout the film, Shults masterfully uses cinematography and music to create an immersive experience for viewers. The camera work is often dizzying, with close-up shots and rapid panning, which adds to the visceral and emotional nature of the story. The film also features a stunning soundtrack, with songs ranging from Radiohead to Frank Ocean, that perfectly capture the mood of each scene. The performances of the cast are also worth noting. Harrison Jr. gives a powerful and nuanced performance as Tyler, perfectly capturing the complexities of teenage masculinity and the pressures of societal expectations. Russell shines in her role as Emily, displaying both vulnerability and strength in equal measure. And Demie’s performance as Tyler’s girlfriend serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the ripple effect that one person’s actions can have on others. At its core, Waves is a film about family, love, and forgiveness, and it handles these themes with raw emotion and honesty. It explores the ways in which trauma can shape us and how the road to healing is often long and difficult. But ultimately, it is a story of hope and resilience, and a testament to the power of human connection. In conclusion, Waves is a captivating and deeply emotional film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is a must-see for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and expertly crafted drama.