In Waves director explains how she adapted AJ Dungo’s graphic memoir

*In Waves* director Phuong Mai Nguyen has explained how she translated AJ Dungo’s graphic memoir into an animated feature. In an October 16 interview, Nguyen and Dungo discuss the research, collaboration and visual decisions behind the adaptation.

In Waves director Phuong Mai Nguyen has explained how she translated AJ Dungo’s graphic memoir into an animated feature. In an October 16 interview, Nguyen and Dungo discuss the research, collaboration and visual decisions behind the adaptation. The film follows AJ, voiced by Will Sharpe, and Kristen, voiced by

Stephanie Hsu, as surfing becomes part of their relationship. Nguyen visited the couple’s real school, home and beaches to understand the places behind Dungo’s story. Screenwriters Fanny Burdino and Samuel Doux also asked the author about experiences beyond those described in the book. Nguyen identifies California’s

light and David Hockney’s paintings as influences on the film’s palette. Its ocean colours change with the emotional direction of the story, connecting the setting to the characters’ experience of love and grief. She also visited Hawaii to consult researchers about surfing’s history and culture. The interview offers an

account of adaptation as both expansion and selection, with Dungo involved as the team reshaped his personal story for the screen. Read the original source. Image: Ibrahim Rayintakath / Netflix Tudum; official In Waves adaptation illustration.

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