Let's dive into the captivating world of 'Summer Drift,' a film that blends documentary and autofiction to tell a story of identity and personal transformation. This Swiss-French production, directed by Céline Carridroit and Aline Suter, offers a unique perspective on the life of Johanna Schopfer, a watch factory worker in Geneva.
The Power of Autofiction
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Summer Drift' is its use of autofiction. The directors explain how this approach was essential to capturing Johanna's story authentically. Aline Suter reveals that from the outset, they knew they needed more than observation; they required fiction to truly represent Johanna's narrative.
"Fiction is closer to Johanna herself. That's how she tells her own story. Through her comics, through the way she speaks about her life, she always injects fiction." - Aline Suter
Céline Carridroit adds that Johanna's life is already filled with astonishing stories, and the emotional truth is what matters most. The directors' decision to incorporate fiction highlights the power of storytelling in capturing the essence of a person's journey.
The Car as a Metaphor
The film's central narrative revolves around Johanna's obsession with restoring her vintage VW Beetle. But this isn't just about a car; it's a metaphor for Johanna's transition and self-discovery. As Carridroit explains, "The car is also a metaphor for her transition. We used it in the writing as a metaphor for that transition."
This metaphor extends beyond the car's visual changes; it represents Johanna's transformation and how she is recognized by others. The people from her past still see her through the car, making it a powerful symbol of her identity.
Reclaiming Geneva's Image
Geneva, with its polished international image of banks and luxury, takes on a new light in 'Summer Drift.' The directors, who are familiar with the city, wanted to showcase a different side—one of resistance and hidden rhythms.
"Most people imagine Geneva through diplomacy, banks, and luxury, but there is another history underneath that." - Céline Carridroit
The film explores working-class garages, queer friendships, and the city's alternative spaces, offering a fresh perspective on a city often associated with wealth and diplomacy.
The Choice of 16mm Film
The decision to shoot 'Summer Drift' on 16mm film was not just aesthetic; it had a deeper purpose. Suter explains that it was a risky but essential choice, forcing them to make strong creative decisions. But beyond the practical reasons, the use of 16mm had a political significance.
"It allowed us to show a trans woman inside an aesthetic that is identified with another era of cinema, an era where trans people were erased from the visual narrative." - Aline Suter
The warmth and color of 16mm film became a tool to represent joy and inclusion, challenging the erasure of trans narratives in cinema.
The Warmth of Friendship
One of the most moving aspects of 'Summer Drift' is the bond between Johanna and her friends, Rocco and Leticia. Suter emphasizes the importance of showcasing this warmth, stating, "Their friendship is real. They are colorful people, and they bring so much life to the film."
The final raft scene, a celebration of friendship and acceptance, is a powerful reminder that identity politics are not just about struggle but also about the joy of being oneself.
A Personal Journey
For the directors, 'Summer Drift' is not just a film; it's a transformative journey. Carridroit reflects on how the process of making the film changed Johanna, offering her a new perspective on herself.
"Watching herself on screen over the years became a way of looking at herself from outside. The film transformed her too." - Céline Carridroit
This personal growth and the opportunity to bring Johanna, Rocco, and Leticia to ACID Cannes is a testament to the power of cinema to inspire and connect.
