In the world of cinema, where stories often unfold on grand stages, "Summer Drift" offers a refreshing and intimate glimpse into a personal journey. This Swiss-French film, directed by Céline Carridroit and Aline Suter, takes us on a ride through the life of Johanna Schopfer, a watch factory worker with a unique passion.
A Story of Self-Discovery and Friendship
At its core, "Summer Drift" is about Johanna's obsession with restoring her vintage VW Beetle. But beneath this surface, it's a tale of identity, friendship, and the power of storytelling. The directors chose to blend documentary and autofiction, a style that mirrors Johanna's own life and how she narrates her experiences.
"When Johanna speaks about her life, you can't help but visualize it as a cinematic narrative. It's a natural fit for the big screen," Carridroit observes.
The Power of Fiction and Reconstruction
The decision to incorporate fiction was not just artistic; it was practical too. Suter explains, "We needed to write and plan, as Johanna's schedule and our access to certain locations were limited." But more importantly, it allowed them to capture the essence of Johanna's storytelling, which often blends fact and fiction.
"Johanna stages herself in her life, just as we staged scenes in the film. It felt authentic to her narrative style," Suter adds.
A Car as a Metaphor for Transition
The film's central narrative, the restoration of the Beetle, becomes a powerful metaphor for Johanna's transition. Carridroit reveals, "The car is a reflection of her journey. She hid her women's clothes inside, just as she transformed the car's appearance, mirroring her own transition."
"It's a very concrete way to explore abstract concepts like identity and self-discovery," Suter reflects.
Reclaiming Geneva's Image
Geneva, with its polished international reputation, serves as a backdrop to uncover a different side of the city. Carridroit and Suter, being locals, wanted to showcase a Geneva that's often overlooked.
"There's a rich history of resistance and alternative culture in Geneva. We wanted to archive these disappearing spaces and showcase the city's diverse rhythms," Suter explains.
The Choice of 16mm Film
The decision to shoot on 16mm film was not just aesthetic; it was political. Suter emphasizes, "It allowed us to place a trans woman in a cinematic space where she historically hasn't been represented." The warmth and color of 16mm added a layer of joy, a contrast to the serious themes explored.
"Switzerland feels like a country frozen in time. The texture of 16mm connected to this reality, not just nostalgia," Carridroit notes.
The Warmth of Friendship
One of the film's most heartfelt moments is the bond between Johanna and her friends. Suter shares, "Their friendship is genuine and vibrant. We wanted to capture the pleasure and affection that exists beyond the struggles of identity politics."
"It's a reminder that at the heart of these stories are real people, with real connections," Carridroit adds.
A Journey to ACID Cannes
For the directors, bringing "Summer Drift" to ACID Cannes is a special moment, made even more so by the presence of Johanna, Rocco, and Leticia. Suter expresses, "It's wonderful to share this experience with them. To see Johanna, who doesn't seek fame, navigate this new world is exciting."
"The film has transformed Johanna, offering her a new perspective on herself. That's a beautiful outcome of the process," Carridroit concludes.
"Summer Drift" is a film that invites us to explore the layers of identity, the power of storytelling, and the warmth of human connections. It's a journey well worth taking.
