There’s something about Summer Drift that just feels… easy to watch, but in the best way.
I caught it at the ACID section of the Cannes Film Festival, and it’s one of those films that doesn’t try to grab your attention, it just slowly pulls you in.
Directed by Céline Carridroit and Aline Suter, it follows Johanna, a watch factory worker in Geneva who’s figuring things out as she goes. She’s not fully open about her sexuality at work, which leads to a few awkward but genuinely funny moments — nothing overdone, just very real.
At the same time, she’s completely focused on fixing up her old VW Beetle to enter a drag race. It sounds random, but it ends up meaning so much more. It becomes her thing — something that’s hers, that she controls — and you really feel that as the film goes on.
What I liked most is how natural everything feels. It sits somewhere between documentary and fiction, so at times it almost feels like you’re just watching someone’s real life unfold. There’s no big dramatic push — it’s more about the small moments, the friendships, the in-between conversations.
It also shows a completely different side of Geneva, not the polished, luxury image, but something more grounded. Garages, late nights, close friendships, it all feels very lived-in.
Produced by Aurélien Marsais with Cavale Films and Alter Ego Production, and shot on 16mm, it has this slightly grainy, nostalgic feel that really adds to it. Nothing feels overly styled, which is kind of the point.
It’s not a loud film. It’s not trying to be, but it does stay with you.
Spotlight Talks 
Leave a comment