Get out a box of tissues for “It Comes in Waves,” a deeply moving new drama from emerging director and Haitian-Canadian filmmaker Fitch Jean, set to screen at the 2025 Austin Film Festival. The film demonstrates an impressive grasp of storytelling through artistic direction and emotional dialogue. It is sure to be one of the most memorable films at the festival, and there won’t be a dry eye left.
Jean’s debut feature is a touching exploration of grief, trauma and redemption. It’s also an almost unbearably depressing window into the relentless horrors faced by refugees in a world that has become increasingly inhospitable to those seeking to escape violence and poverty.
The film won the Audience Choice Award for Best Narrative Feature at the Sidewalk Film Festival and the Reelworld Film Festival’s Outstanding Feature award.
The story follows a family of four starting a new life in Ottawa after fleeing horrors in Rwanda. In Canada, they face unexpected challenges and harsh realities. The central character, Akai, played by Adrian Walters, has witnessed horrendous violence and trauma that deeply scarred him. A track star with a bright future, Akai struggles with tragedy and is left responsible for caring for his younger sister, Zera, played by Nendia Lewars. Although the film’s emotional range can feel limited at times, “It Comes in Waves” succeeds in portraying depth and meaning, particularly through the development and redemption arc of the protagonist, whose struggle reflects some of the most pressing issues today.
The film has particular resonance at the moment as refugees find themselves increasingly unwelcome in Europe and the U.S., where President Donald Trump is dismantling the refugee program even as people continue to flee violence and persecution around the world in huge numbers.
In the film, Walters delivers a nuanced portrayal of Akai — a sensitive young man haunted by his past and doing everything he can to keep his family together without a support system. Strong performance is a pattern among the entire cast throughout the film. Performances are raw and heartfelt, amplifying the film’s emotional impact. With an unconventional, non-linear narrative, the film expertly captures the complicated process of healing from severe trauma. It tackles challenging topics with sensitivity, while still powerfully presenting strong themes.
One of the film’s most touching elements lies in its tender portrayal of the relationship between Akai and Zera. Akai is depicted as a deeply compassionate, but overburdened older brother. Forced into premature adulthood by circumstance, Akai becomes the primary caretaker of his family, exhibiting a heartbreaking level of resilience. His care for Zera ranges from helping her manage her health issues, protecting her from the threat of separation with the intervention of child protective services, to trying to preserve her sense of childhood innocence and perception of stability. Through the film, this relationship captures the reality of children who experience severe trauma and are forced to grow up too fast amid hardship.
The themes in this film are highlighted by a well-crafted score. A piercing string soundtrack elevates the mood and tone of the film, acting as a constant guiding force. While the sharp intensity of notes mirror the tension and emotional fragility of the characters, shifts in tempo build pacing and reflect conflict.
Though the film’s heavy subject matter is handled delicately, its intensity remains constant. The narrative does not offer much emotional variety, with heartbreak and devastation dominating the story. At times, this can feel overwhelming. More frequent moments of relief might have better balanced the heaviness.
Jean showcases his passion for storytelling and visual art in this impressive debut. “It Comes in Waves” is a masterful exploration of loss, love and family, brought to life through bold, authentic characters who linger with viewers. Jean displays a keen, astute understanding of the human experience and the power of resilience, family and vulnerability amidst immense hardship. The film marks the start of the career of a filmmaker with a strong voice, story to tell and dedication to the craftsmanship of cinema. It will be exciting to see what he creates next.
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Featured Image Courtesy of Austin Film Festival
