Waves — Review
This review was originally published on Cinemusings on November 14, 2019
Source: A24
Trey Edward Shults' filmmaking career was already off to a great start with 2015's Krisha and 2017's It Comes at Night. But Waves is his best film yet. There hasn't been enough awards chatter surrounding Waves, and the film will most likely be overlooked throughout awards season. But make no mistake, Waves is one of the best films of the year.
Drew Daniels' cinematography is breathtaking, and every frame of the film is gorgeous. The stunning visuals are amplified by a mesmerizing score composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, as well as a spectacular soundtrack. Waves isn't a movie you simply watch, it's one that you feel. It absolutely deserves to be seen on the big screen because it's an extraordinary film that makes for a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience.
Waves explores one family's emotional journey through love, loss, and forgiveness. After his intense role in this year's Luce, Kelvin Harrison Jr. stars as high school senior Tyler Williams. His magnificent performance is both captivating and complex.
Source: A24
Alexa Demie lights up the screen as Tyler's girlfriend Alexis. The character of Alexis is a testament to both Shults' writing ability and Demie's talent. Alexis doesn't fall into the trappings of the stereotypical "girlfriend" character. She's a kind-hearted free spirit but she's also strong-willed and not afraid to stick up for herself.
Taylor Russell stars as Tyler's younger sister Emily. Her understated performance helps emphasizes the contrast between Emily and Tyler. Sterling K. Brown and Renée Elise Goldsberry are fantastic as Tyler and Emily's parents Ronald and Catharine. They excel at capturing the complexities of parenthood.
Lucas Hedges is a great source of comedic relief in the film. He plays Emily's boyfriend Luke, who is both painfully and adorably awkward. Luke enters the narrative at the perfect time. After some of the film's most stressful moments, it's a relief to watch Luke stumble over his words as he tries to ask Emily out.
Source: A24
In an interview with Vulture, Shults said he wanted the film to feel like a panic attack and then a hug. This description is incredibly accurate and is part of what makes Waves so cathartic. It's best to avoid spoilers for the film because the story heads in some very unexpected directions.
Waves beautifully depicts the ups and downs of life. It features an awe-inspiring story, dazzling cinematography, a thrilling score, a phenomenal soundtrack, and powerful performances. It's a triumph for everyone involved. Films like this don't come around very often. It will rip your heart into pieces and put it back together again. It will leave you speechless, but then you won't want to stop talking about it. Waves is an unparalleled emotional rollercoaster, but it's undeniably worth the ride.
Waves hits theaters on November 15, 2019.
