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Directed by
Masaaki Yuasa
Made by
GKIDS
Discover the intricate plot of Ride Your Wave (2020). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
19-year-old Hinako Mukaimizu moves to a picturesque coastal town with dreams of college and a passion for surfing, not giving much thought to her future. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when a fireworks display inadvertently sets her apartment building ablaze. In her moment of need, she is rescued by Minato Hinageshi, a 21-year-old firefighter renowned for his unwavering sense of justice. Captivated by his formidable nature, Hinako finds herself drawn to him as they share time together, especially when Minato teaches her how to surf.
Minato, who has a special belief that the best surfing waves come after Christmas, chooses to go surfing alone the following day. Tragically, he attempts to save a jetskier and loses his life in the process. Overwhelmed by grief, Hinako opts to move away from the beach, trying to escape the memories. One fateful day, she discovers that every time she sings “Brand New Story,” a song that holds significant meaning for both of them, Minato’s spirit appears to her in the water. While no one else can see him, they resume their connection, spending cherished time together even in public.
Yet, Minato grapples with the painful realization of his situation. He becomes aware of his inability to physically be with Hinako, especially when his colleague Wasabi Kawamura makes his feelings for her known. In a heartfelt moment, Minato encourages Hinako to move forward with her life, a suggestion she initially rejects. As the story unfolds, Hinako ends up feeling too dependent on him, especially when she prevents his spirit from finding peace in the afterlife.
When visiting Minato’s home to pay her respects, she converses with his sister Yōko Hinageshi, who reveals the inspiration behind Minato’s choice to become a firefighter. In a surprising turn, Hinako learns that she had saved Minato from drowning in their childhood. Unlocking Minato’s phone, she discovers a drafted message urging her to “ride her own wave.” This revelation propels her to enroll in a lifeguard training course, a step she hopes will help her regain independence.
Meanwhile, Yōko explores her own relationship with Wasabi, who had motivated her to continue her studies after facing bullying. At work, Yōko overhears a plot by the same group responsible for the fireworks incident, as they prepare to repeat their actions near an abandoned building with a notable Christmas tree. Together, Hinako and Yōko track the group to gather evidence, but things take a dangerous turn as the fireworks ignite the structure, trapping them inside.
In a climactic moment, Hinako calls upon Minato’s spirit for help. Responding to her need, he conjures a wave of water to extinguish the flames, allowing them to escape safely on a backboard. After sharing poignant farewells with Hinako, Yōko, and Wasabi, Minato’s spirit ascends peacefully to heaven.
As Christmas approaches the following year, Hinako, Yōko, and Wasabi—who are now a couple—gather at Chiba Port Tower to celebrate Hinako’s achievement of lifeguard certification. While Yōko and Wasabi leave, Hinako sings to a fountain, but Minato does not materialize. She discovers a heartfelt message he had prepared for her the prior year inscribed on the tower, leading her to a moment of emotional release. Undeterred, she continues her commitment to lifeguarding and surfing, embodying the message of living her own life fully.
Track the key events of Ride Your Wave (2020) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Hinako Moves to Coastal Town
19-year-old Hinako Mukaimizu relocates to a picturesque coastal town filled with dreams of college and a passion for surfing. Embracing her new life, she is motivated to pursue her interests and see what the future holds.
Fireworks Display Disaster
During a lively fireworks display, Hinako's apartment building is set ablaze due to an unfortunate accident. This terrifying event marks a drastic turn in her life, leading her to a surprising encounter with a local hero.
Rescue by Minato
As Hinako struggles to escape the flames, she is heroically rescued by 21-year-old Minato Hinageshi, a firefighter known for his unwavering sense of justice. This moment sparks a connection between them that begins to develop.
Learning to Surf
Hinako begins to spend more time with Minato, drawn to his strength and skill. He teaches her how to surf, and their bond deepens as they enjoy the thrill of riding the waves together.
Tragic Accident
The next day, Minato ventures out alone to surf, believing that the best waves will come after Christmas. Unfortunately, he tragically loses his life while trying to save a jetskier, leaving Hinako devastated.
Hinako's Grief
Overcome by sorrow from Minato's untimely death, Hinako decides to move away from the beach, seeking to escape the memories that haunt her. Her emotional turmoil begins to isolate her from her dreams.
Revival Through Song
In a surprising twist, Hinako discovers that singing their special song, 'Brand New Story,' brings Minato's spirit to her in the water. The bond between them transcends the boundaries of life and death, allowing them to reconnect.
Minato's Encouragement
Minato, now aware of his ghostly form, encourages Hinako to move on with her life. Although she struggles with his advice, this moment highlights her growing dependency on him and the challenges of letting go.
Discovering the Past
During a visit to Minato's home, Hinako speaks with his sister Yōko and learns poignant details about Minato's inspiration to become a firefighter. The revelation that she had saved him during their childhood profoundly impacts her.
A Call to Independence
Hinako uncovers a drafted message on Minato's phone urging her to 'ride her own wave.' This revelation motivates her to enroll in a lifeguard training course, seeking independence and a new direction in life.
Yōko and Wasabi's Relationship
Yōko, Minato's sister, explores her own feelings and relationship with Wasabi, who had previously supported her through bullying. Their bond serves as a parallel to Hinako and Minato's more complex connection.
Confronting Danger
Hinako and Yōko uncover a plot by individuals responsible for the fireworks incident, intending to replicate their actions. Their detective work leads them into a perilous situation that puts their lives at risk.
Desperate Call for Help
During a crisis as the fireworks ignite the abandoned building, Hinako desperately calls upon Minato's spirit. He responds to her need, conjuring a wave of water that saves them both from being trapped in the fire.
Minato's Final Farewell
After rescuing Hinako and Yōko, Minato's spirit shares tender goodbyes, imparting last words of encouragement and love. His spirit then ascends peacefully, finding the closure he sought after tragedy.
A New Beginning
A year later, Hinako, Yōko, and Wasabi reunite to celebrate Hinako's lifeguard certification at Chiba Port Tower. Although Minato does not appear, she finds a heartfelt message from him, inspiring her to embrace life anew.
Meet the characters that bring Ride Your Wave (2020) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Hinako Mukaimizu
Hinako is a determined 19-year-old with a passion for surfing and a deep emotional connection to Minato. Following his tragic death, she struggles with her grief and dependency on his spirit. Her journey ultimately leads to self-discovery and independence as she chooses to live fully and pursue her dreams.
Minato Hinageshi
Minato is a brave 21-year-old firefighter who exemplifies unwavering courage and a strong sense of justice. His tragic fate leaves a profound impact on Hinako, as they share a unique bond that transcends life and death. His encouraging spirit serves as a catalyst for Hinako’s growth.
Yōko Hinageshi
Yōko is Minato's sister, who also grapples with her own challenges yet finds strength through her relationship with Wasabi. She plays a crucial role in helping Hinako navigate her grief and supports her journey toward independence. Yōko's character represents resilience and growth.
Wasabi Kawamura
Wasabi is a supportive and compassionate figure in Hinako and Yōko's lives. His motivations inspire Yōko to overcome her past challenges. As a developing love interest, he embodies understanding and complements the primary themes of courage and healing.
Uncover the settings of Ride Your Wave (2020), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, around the time of Christmas, which is integral to the narrative. This period symbolizes new beginnings and the journey of healing for the characters, particularly through the backdrop of seasonal changes.
Location
Chiba Port, Coastal Town
The movie is set in a picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and surfing culture. Chiba Port serves as a significant location for key moments in the story, representing both celebration and emotional release for the characters. The coastal scenery plays a vital role in enhancing the film's themes of love and loss.
Explore the core themes of Ride Your Wave (2020). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Grief
Grief is a central theme as Hinako navigates the loss of Minato, struggling with her emotions and dependency on his spirit. The film explores the depth of her sorrow and the journey towards acceptance and healing. Minato’s encouragement symbolizes the importance of moving forward while holding onto cherished memories.
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Self-Discovery
Hinako's journey reflects the theme of self-discovery. As she learns to embrace her independence through lifeguard training, she honors Minato's memory while carving a new path for herself. This theme emphasizes the significance of personal growth and living life fully.
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Courage
Courage is highlighted through the characters' responses to adversity, particularly during the fireworks incident. Hinako and Yōko demonstrate bravery when confronting their fears and working to prevent further tragedies. The film underscores the strength required to face challenges and support one another.
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