The Swiss-French film 'Summer Drift', directed by Céline Carridroit and Aline Suter, premieres on May 16 at ACID Cannes. The film follows Johanna Schopfer, a Geneva watch factory worker, whose summer project of restoring a vintage VW Beetle becomes a profound act of self-reclamation.
Exploring Identity through Autofiction
'Summer Drift' weaves between documentary and autofiction, capturing Johanna's story through reconstructed scenes. Suter explains that fiction was necessary as Johanna naturally infuses her own life with narrative elements. 'Fiction felt more truthful than a purely documentary approach,' Suter remarked.
Carridroit added, 'The emotional truth of Johanna's life is what resonates, beyond strict factual accuracy. Her life is full of captivating stories.' The film was shot over four summers, with the unpredictable nature of the car and Johanna's availability influencing the narrative structure.
The Significance of Mechanics
The restoration of Johanna's VW Beetle serves as a central narrative, symbolizing her transition and return to a world from which she was initially excluded post-transition. 'It condensed a real-life process into one summer, providing a strong narrative line,' Suter noted.
Carridroit highlighted the car as a metaphorical device, representing Johanna's physical transformation and how she is recognized by her past connections. 'The car reflects Johanna's body and identity,' Carridroit said, adding depth to the film's thematic exploration of identity and belonging.
Reclaiming Geneva's Image
Geneva's portrayal in 'Summer Drift' challenges its polished image, showcasing its lesser-known history of resistance and alternative communities. 'Geneva has a rich history beyond diplomacy and luxury,' Carridroit stated. The film documents the city's changing landscape, capturing spaces that are vanishing amidst rapid development.
Suter emphasized the archival aspect of filmmaking, aiming to preserve Geneva's current reality. 'We wanted to capture the city as it exists now,' Suter explained, highlighting the film's documentary roots.
The Aesthetic Choice of 16mm Film
Shooting on 16mm was crucial for the directors, despite financial risks. The medium's texture aligned with Switzerland's timeless visual and social conservatism, providing authenticity without nostalgia. 'It allowed us to present a trans woman within an aesthetic reminiscent of an era that often erased such narratives,' Suter asserted.
Carridroit added that the choice wasn't about retro aesthetics but about connecting with the country's unique temporal feel. 'Switzerland feels like it's frozen in time, which 16mm film captures beautifully,' she said.
Friendship and Community
The film underscores the warmth and genuine connection between Johanna and her friends Rocco and Leticia. 'Their real-life friendship brings vibrancy to the film,' Suter shared. The narrative is not solely about struggle; it celebrates joy, affection, and unconditional love.
As 'Summer Drift' premieres at ACID Cannes, Suter expressed excitement about sharing the experience with Johanna and her friends, marking a significant moment in their journey. 'Johanna's transformation through the filmmaking process is one of the most beautiful outcomes,' Carridroit concluded.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/global/summer-drift-acid-celine-carridroit-aline-suter-1236749787/
