Lost in the Waves

Directed by Joss Berlioux and Franck Marchand

Warning – This review may contain spoilers.

Lost in the Waves follows Adam, a struggling writer who retreats to his family’s house in search of solitude, only to find that his estranged stepsister, Sophie, is already there. As they are forced to confront each other’s presence, unresolved tensions and buried memories from their shared past begin to surface. The film explores themes of family estrangement, unresolved trauma, and the inevitable confrontation with one’s past. The setting of the isolated family house serves as a symbolic backdrop for the emotional storms that unfold between Adam and Sophie, as they navigate old wounds and repressed memories.

The film successfully captures the tension and complexity of the sibling relationship, particularly through the performances of Roel Dirven as Adam and Anastasia Martin as Sophie. Their portrayal of two people who have drifted apart emotionally and now must come to terms with their shared history is raw and compelling. The story’s simple premise allows the characters’ emotions and dynamics to take center stage, and the film does a good job of building suspense through their interactions. As their past slowly unravels, viewers are drawn into the emotional depth of their journey, especially during the film’s climax, where both characters are forced to face uncomfortable truths about their past.

Lost in the Waves is technically a strong film with particular emphasis on its cinematography. The film’s visual style effectively captures the isolation and tension between the two leads. The framing of shots, especially those that focus on the characters in intimate moments, adds a layer of intensity that complements the emotional weight of the narrative. The use of close-ups is particularly effective in conveying the subtle emotions of the characters, making the film feel personal and immersive. The sound design and music also enhance the film’s atmosphere, adding a haunting quality that underscores the emotional tone of the story. While the sound and music are generally well-mixed, there are moments where the editing feels slightly off, with certain scenes dragging a bit in the first half of the film. However, this is quickly remedied as the pacing picks up in the latter half, leading to a more engaging second act.

Despite some slower moments in the beginning, the film’s emotional core ultimately shines through. The relationship between Adam and Sophie is carefully developed, and the film’s strength lies in its ability to make the audience feel invested in their reconciliation, even as difficult memories and unresolved conflicts come to the surface. The dialogue is effective, revealing the characters’ internal struggles without being overly dramatic, and the gradual build-up of tension keeps the audience engaged.

Lost in the Waves is an emotionally driven film that balances a simple premise with deep character exploration. While it may take some time for the story to fully develop, the strong performances and technical elements make it a worthwhile watch. Viewers who appreciate films that focus on character dynamics and emotional storytelling will likely find Lost in the Waves both moving and thought-provoking.