Cynthia Erivo and Alia Shawkat Unite in 'Drift' Trailer

Cynthia Erivo and Alia Shawkat Unite in 'Drift' Trailer

'Drift' marks director Anthony Chen's highly anticipated English language feature debut, bringing together the incredible talents of Cynthia Erivo and Alia Shawkat in a captivating story that promises to leave audiences spellbound

A new drama film starring Cynthia Erivo and Alia Shawkat, titled Utopia, has unveiled the first trailer for their upcoming movie, Drift. The movie is set to premiere in New York on February 9, followed by a nationwide release.

Taking place on a picturesque Greek island, the trailer opens with Jacqueline (Erivo), a refugee from Liberia, navigating the difficulties of living on the streets. However, her life takes a turn when she encounters a woman (Shawkat) conducting a tour for tourists on the island. Their initial interaction involves the tour guide amusingly commenting on the unruly behavior of some tourists' children. As their bond strengthens, the tour guide discloses that she hails from America. Throughout the preview, we witness Jacqueline's intense aversion to the sound of fireworks. Despite her ongoing struggles, viewers are also given glimpses of her finding solace and developing a sense of contentment alongside the tour guide.

Erivo's prior projects incorporate Luther: The Fallen Son (2023), the 2022 live-action adaptation of Disney's Pinocchio, and Needle in a Timestack. Shawkat's previous work encompasses Being the Ricardos (2021), Animals (2019), and her portrayal of Maeby Fünke in the television series Arrested Development. The movie also features Ibrahima Ba, Honor Swinton Byrne, Zainad Jah, Suzy Bemba, and Vincent Vermignon.

'Drift' is the Latest Film From Director Anthony Chen

Cynthia Erivo and Alia Shawkat Unite in 'Drift' Trailer

Image via Utopia

Directed by Anthony Chen, known for his previous works The Breaking Ice (2023), Wet Season (2019), and Ilo Ilo (2013), Drift serves as his English-language debut. Chen describes the film as a captivating and profoundly moving narrative that showcases the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Reflecting on the challenging days of the pandemic, he expresses his emotional journey in developing the film over the past few years. Chen is excited to collaborate with the exceptional talents of Cynthia and Alia as he marks his entrance into the world of English-language feature films.

Drift is scheduled to open in New York on February 9, followed by a U.S. theatrical expansion. In the meantime, check out the trailer for the film below: