Waves

Waves2019. “Waves,” directed by Trey Edward Shults and distributed by A24, is an intense exploration of the complexities of the struggles faced in contemporary America, family relationships, tragedy, conflicts, and resolution. Released in 2019, the film traces the journey of a suburban African a well-intentioned but domineering father leads American family which is led by a well-intentioned but domineering father, as they navigate and grapple with tragedy and the subsequent journey of healing. Through its astonishing cinematography, and powerful performances, Waves captures the emotional distress faced by its characters, making a mesmeric study of forgiveness and human experiences. During the beginning of Waves, the portrayal of the relationship between the family members, particularly focusing on the father Ronald, played by Sterling K. Brown, and his son Tyler, played by Kelvin Harrison Jr is explored. The opening scenes of the film consist of vibrant depictions of Tyler’s life as a high school wrestler, displaying his strong ambitions and pressures he faces to succeed. This overbearing pressure is a recurring theme showcased throughout the film, as Ronald’s deep desires for his son to excel leads to an overwhelming burden on Tyler. As well as this pressure to succeed, an exploration of religion and its role in providing both solace and pressure is proposed. The film highlights how religion can be a double-edged sword, providing both support but also accommodating to the enforcement of certain ideals, as the film opens with scenes that portray a family deeply rooted in their faith. However, this faith also comes with unrealistic expectations which can weigh heavily on them. As the narrative continues to unfold, tragedy pummels when Tyler’s life takes a devastating turn following a personal crisis. This pivotal moment is displayed as a catalyst for the film’s exploration of grief and the numerous ways in how it can fracture family dynamics and relationships. During this section, the cinematography shifts exceptionally, with darker tones and disorienting angles showcased to reflect both the chaos and despair which engulf Tyler and his family. Shults articulately contrasts the vibrancy of the family’s life with the subsequent emotional fallout, highlighting how rapidly glee can turn to sorrow. The second act of the film introduces a new perspective through the character of Emily, Tylers sister, played by Taylor Russell, who also becomes a main figure in regard to the aftermath of Tyler’s cris. Emily’s journey of both healing and self-discovery is portrayed with depth and sensitivity, displaying her struggles to support those around her while navigating her own emotions. The shifting relationship dynamic from Tyler and Alexis to Emily and Luke illustrates the importance of connection during difficult times due to Lukes's character providing a layer of compassion and connection to the story, while he deals with the loss of his own father. The narrative structure allows the audience to comprehend the various ways each character copes with their circumstances and struggles through alternating viewpoints. The astonishing use of music and sound design to enhance the repetitive melancholy theme of the story is arguably one of the most striking aspects of the film. A blend of multiple genres such as contemporary hip-hop and electronic music featured in the film's soundtrack heavily associated with the characters’ experiences, emotions, and the cultural context. The rhythmic beats and pulsating sounds mirror the emotional highs and lows of the family’s journey. Additionally. The use of both ambient and silent sounds during the dark moments, alongside those of reflection, create a stark contrast, which allows the audience to fully understand the gravity of the characters’ emotions. Throughout the progression of the film, the constant theme of forgiveness is displayed as a crucial component in the healing process. Ronald’s deep struggle to come to terms with the effects of his transmitted toxic masculinity and expectations of Tyler leads to a reckoning within the family. The film does not shy away from picturing the complexities of forgiveness which is distinctly shown through the changing relationship dynamic between Catherine and Ronald, as she struggles to come to terms with Tylers actions, this further illustrates that forgiveness is not only a difficult but also a nonlinear process; while also covering the idea that healing is possible, even in the face of profound loss. In conclusion, “Waves” is a powerful exploration of copious themes of religion, human experience, love, loss and African American parenting pressures. The film captures and highlights the complex emotions of each character through the intertwined stories and alternating perspectives. The film serves as a reminder of why open communication, emotional expression, and encouragement of reflection in which we navigate our struggles is significantly important regarding the fate of our individual futures, which Trey Edward Shults does an impressive job at portraying. Ultimately, “Waves” invites viewers to understand the power of storytelling in illuminating the expanse of human emotions and the broad implications of experiences.

one of only two movies to ever make me cry. amazing story, cast, and environment in both halves of the movie. I'd recommend this movie to any young adult going through a difficult time

The movies segmentation and tonal switches are a breath in a movie that sounds and visualizes quickly. Overall, I appreciate this as art, something Hollywood is becoming more and more unfamiliar with.

This movie is the epitome of a 5 star movie, no glaze. Everything about it down to the plot, acting, and soundtrack/sound design is beautifully executed and ever since i have first seen this movie it has been my #1 film of all time.

this is the best movie ever made

Incredible performance from all actors. Perfectly captures the grief of life in such a justifying and refreshing way. Can't believe it took me so long to watch!!

A hauntingly gorgeous movie with such strong direction both visually and musically that trigger such strong emotions thanks to its excellent cinematography, color lighting, music, and acting. It's a sincere story about love and how we often hurt the ones we love, whether it's the father and son, or the son and his own loved ones. Excellent pacing all culminating in a heart-poundingly tense mid-film confrontation that shakes up the whole narrative in a shocking twist. The film then takes an easy time in the second half to focus onto the rest of the characters coming to terms with the aftermath and slowly healing emotionally. All with some excellent footage of Florida and some great use of modern licensed music. My main problem with this movie however is the final resolution, which gives a grand statement on forgiveness that I find personally disgusting in the context of this movie with its implications of entitlement and how one MUST forgive their abusers or a murderer just because they're family and somehow that's the ONLY way to emotionally heal. That's a horrible message that cheapens true forgiveness and reinforces enablement of horrific behavior just because of superficial familial ties. It's such a jarring stain in an otherwise perfectly crafted and emotionally powerful movie. Making it a frustrating film to talk about since the contrast is so jarring. That being said, all the other elements are so strong and emotionally evocative that it's still worth a watch and will definitely leave a strong impact on you.

Great movie with very complex dynamics.

Exploitative. Trying way to hard to be provocative.

The entire movie was about miscommunication. Great acting.