Waves (2019)
Kernel Score: 85% · 791 ratings · Rated R
Genres: Romance, Drama
Released: 2019-11-15
Runtime: 136 minutes
Where to watch Waves
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Spectrum On Demand
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
A controlling father’s attempts to ensure that his two children succeed in high school backfire after his son experiences a career-ending sports injury. Their familial bonds are eventually placed under severe strain by an unexpected tragedy.
Waves parents' guide: ages 15+
Parents need to know that Waves is an R-rated drama dealing with a sports injury, family tragedy, and grief.
- Violence & scariness: Some — Includes a career-ending sports injury and unspecified family tragedy with emotional intensity.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Waves
If you liked Waves, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Magnolia (1999) — 88%
- The Iron Claw (2023) — 84%
- Ordinary People (1980) — 83%
- See You on Venus (2023) — 79%
- Mass (2021) — 83%
- The Starling (2021) — 76%
- One Battle After Another (2025) — 85%
- Booksmart (2019) — 78%
Director
Trey Edward Shults
Cast
- Kelvin Harrison Jr. as Tyler
- Taylor Russell as Emily
- Renée Elise Goldsberry as Catharine
- Sterling K. Brown as Ronald
- Lucas Hedges as Luke
- Alexa Demie as Alexis
- Neal Huff as Bill
- Clifton Collins Jr. as Bobby
- Krisha Fairchild as English Teacher
- Ruben E. A. Brown as Wally
Waves FAQ
Is Waves good?
Waves has an 85% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 791 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Waves?
In the US you can rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and Spectrum On Demand.
Is Waves OK for kids?
Waves is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that Waves is an R-rated drama dealing with a sports injury, family tragedy, and grief.
What movies are like Waves?
If you liked Waves, try Magnolia, The Iron Claw, Ordinary People and See You on Venus.