Ocean Waves (also known as I Can Hear the Sea) is a 1993 Japanese anime film directed by Tomomi Mochizuki and produced by Studio Ghibli. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Saeko Himuro and is a coming-of-age story about Taku Morisaki, a high school student who becomes entranced with a classmate named Rikako Muto.
The film is set in Kichijoji, Tokyo and K?chi Prefecture, primarily following Taku's memories of his relationship with Rikako during their third year of high school. Taku is initially annoyed by Rikako's personality, which he finds abrasive and self-centered. However, he becomes intrigued by her after learning of her troubled home life and the fact that she transferred into their school from the city of Tokyo.
As the two spend more time together, Taku becomes increasingly conflicted about his feelings and the dynamic of their relationship. Rikako's presence causes tension within Taku's group of friends, and her emotional volatility and secrets ultimately lead to a confrontation with Taku.
The film is known for its realistic portrayal of adolescence, its understated storytelling, and its use of visual and auditory cues to convey its characters' emotions. It received positive reviews upon release and has since become a cult classic amongst Studio Ghibli fans.