Patched - Waves 2019

Class, Race, and Suburban Life

Waves is more than a cautionary tale; it is an exploration of the cycle of trauma and the possibility of breaking it. By contrasting Tyler's explosive tragedy with Emily's quiet resilience, Shults creates a "deeply personal movie" that challenges viewers to find empathy in the most difficult circumstances. ‎'Waves' review by Michael Sicinski • Letterboxd waves 2019

Trey Edward Shults uses technical skill to mirror the emotional states of his characters. The camera work, often described as disorienting in the first half, mirrors Tyler’s crumbling mental state. The film uses vibrant, sometimes overwhelming color palettes, and the imagery of water is a recurring motif representing both drowning in grief and the potential for cleansing and healing. 2. Powerful Performances Class, Race, and Suburban Life Waves is more

Waves (2019) final thoughts and points to discuss : r/TrueFilm The camera work, often described as disorienting in

Following a sudden, violent climax, the film shifts its perspective entirely to Tyler’s younger sister, Emily (Taylor Russell). If Tyler’s half is a panic attack, Emily’s half is a deep exhale. Left to navigate the radioactive aftermath of her brother’s actions, Emily is isolated and drowning in collective grief. The narrative tracks her quiet re-emergence into the world, catalyzed by a tender, awkward romance with Luke (Lucas Hedges), a classmate dealing with his own familial trauma. Emily’s arc moves the film away from nihilism, steering the story toward radical empathy and healing.